UAE to Oman by car this Eid al Fitr? Visa, insurance and border fees explained - The Times of India

Orange Card, Exit Charges, Visa on Arrival: What UAE Travellers Should Know Earlier than Driving to Oman

As Eid Al Fitr 2026 approaches and residents of the United Arab Emirates put together for an extended vacation, many are eyeing a scenic highway journey to neighbouring Oman, which is among the best and most rewarding methods to spend the break. With official public holidays confirmed by federal authorities, from Thursday, March 19 by Saturday, March 21 (non-public sector) or Sunday, March 22 (public sector) relying on the Ramadan moon sighting, the timing is ideal for a brief however memorable getaway.Not like flight journey, a highway journey from the UAE into Oman is simple and versatile nevertheless it requires some planning round border procedures, visas, automobile insurance coverage, documentation and vacation crowds. Right here’s an in depth breakdown of what it’s essential know earlier than you hit the highway this Eid.

Eid al Fitr 2026 vacation window within the UAE

The UAE’s Eid al Fitr vacation dates have been introduced properly upfront, permitting travellers to plan forward. For federal authorities workers, the general public vacation runs from Thursday, March 19 to Sunday, March 22, 2026. For personal sector employees, the break is from Thursday, March 19 to Saturday, March 21, with the potential of extension to Sunday, March 22 if Ramadan 1447 AH lasts the total 30 days earlier than Eid begins.The ultimate date of Eid will probably be confirmed by the UAE’s official Moon Sighting Committee, as Eid celebrations are decided by the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon. With this break doubtless coinciding with the weekend and doubtlessly extendable utilizing annual depart, triples of vacation days plus common off days make it a perfect time to discover close by locations, with Oman typically topping the record for road-trippers.

Oman visa and border guidelines: What you want earlier than you drive

Passport and Emirates ID

To cross into Oman by highway, you should carry:

A sound passport with at the very least six months’ validity.A sound Emirates ID or GCC residence card

These are checked on the border exit from the UAE and entry into Oman.

Visa necessities

Most UAE residents are eligible for a visa on arrival on the Oman border, usually legitimate for as much as 14 days, and costing round 5 Omani Rials (about AED 47). If you happen to intend to remain longer or usually are not eligible for a visa on arrival, you’ll be able to apply for an eVisa forward of time by Oman’s official eVisa portal, normally 5 working days earlier than departure.For correct eligibility particulars, it is suggested to contact the Royal Oman Police (ROP) or the Oman embassy, as guidelines can differ by nationality.

Automotive insurance coverage and the ‘Orange Card’

Automobile insurance coverage is a should. Even when your UAE insurance coverage covers GCC journey, you would possibly want particular Oman protection on the border, also known as an Orange Card. Right here’s a breakdown –

Test your present coverage: If it already consists of Oman protection, you’re set.Purchase the Orange Card on the border if wanted: This usually covers third-party legal responsibility and prices round AED 106 (roughly OMR 10) for 5 days minimal.

In case your present coverage doesn’t prolong to Oman, the Orange Card offers you authorized protection for driving there. Be aware that border-must buy insurance coverage normally presents restricted protection and for broader safety, you would possibly organize Oman protection together with your insurer earlier than leaving.

Automobile and driver documentation guidelines

Earlier than departure, be sure you have:

Legitimate driver’s licenceVehicle registration card (Mulkiya)Insurance coverage certificates protecting OmanPassport and Emirates IDNo Objection Certificates (NOC) if driving a borrowed, rented or financed automobile. This have to be notarised and embody the chassis quantity, proprietor permissions and ID particulars.

These checks assist keep away from delays at border inspections and guarantee your journey runs easily.

Greatest border crossings from UAE to Oman

There are a number of main highway border crossings fashionable with travellers –

Al Darah / Ell Border Put up: Leads into Musandam (the northern exclave of Oman fashionable for fjord cruises and scenic cliffs).Dibba Border: Connects by Fujairah into Musandam’s japanese aspect.Khatmat Milaha: A important crossing for journeys in direction of Muscat and central Oman.Hatta Border: A gateway to southern and central areas of Oman.Mezyad Border (Al Ain): A typical route towards Salalah in southern Oman.

Every route serves totally different journey objectives, whether or not you’re heading for coastal adventures, mountain landscapes or metropolis explorations.

Suggestions for a easy Dubai to Muscat Eid al Fitr highway journey

Plan Round Peak Vacation Site visitors: Eid holidays typically deliver crowds at main border posts, particularly early morning and late evenings. Leaving off-peak may also help cut back ready occasions.Pack Necessities: Meals, water and first-aid provides are helpful as some crossings are busy and fundamental providers on each side could also be restricted throughout peak festive visitors.Exit Charges and Expenses: Count on an exit price of round AED 35 when leaving the UAE on the border gate.Test Newest Journey Updates: Guidelines can change based mostly on diplomatic agreements or seasonal shifts, so confirm visa particulars and insurance coverage necessities earlier than departure.

For a lot of within the Emirates, driving to Oman throughout Eid Al Fitr 2026 isn’t just a scenic getaway however a sensible vacation selection, providing flexibility, affordability and unforgettable landscapes with out the necessity for flights or complicated journey plans. Whether or not it’s Musandam’s rugged magnificence, the sands of the Empty Quarter or the historic appeal of Omani cities, a highway journey guarantees each journey and cultural immersion.Eid al Fitr 2026 holidays within the UAE are anticipated from March 19–22 for many residents, providing a four-day vacation window perfect for journey. Visa on arrival on the Oman border is on the market for many nationalities whereas eVisas provide prolonged stays. Automotive insurance coverage (Orange Card) is essential for authorized journey and will be bought on the border. Carry all important paperwork together with licence, registration, ID and passport. Select your border crossing based mostly in your vacation spot, whether or not Musandam, Muscat, Salalah or different areas.

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