When life in the UAE gets too busy and noisy, many people dream of a quiet weekend away. But most don’t know that just across the border in Oman, there’s a hidden place where you can relax and feel close to nature. This place is called Khasab. It sits at the edge of the Musandam Peninsula where the mountains meet the sea. In Khasab, dolphins swim beside wooden boats, the water shines under the sun, and you can still hear old stories passed from one person to another.
Khasab is not crowded or loud like many tourist spots. It is calm, full of beautiful views, and has many activities for people who love adventure or just want to rest. Whether you want to go on a boat, climb mountains, or eat fresh fish, Khasab gives you a special break from city life.
Here’s why Khasab is known as the UAE’s best weekend escape, even though many people don’t talk about it.
Now let’s look at each reason in detail so you can understand why Khasab should be your next weekend getaway.
Khasab is famous for its amazing natural views. It is called the Norway of Arabia because of its long sea inlets that look like fjords. The mountains rise sharply from the water making the whole place look like a painting.
During sunset, the cliffs turn golden and the sea looks calm and shiny. Behind the coast, you can see the Western Hajar mountains, perfect for hiking and exploring. Sometimes, after it rains the dry riverbeds become green and full of life.
The scenery in Khasab feels wild and untouched. It makes you feel small and peaceful at the same time.
One of the best things to do in Khasab is to take a dhow cruise. Dhows are traditional wooden boats that have been used for many years. On a cruise you can see dolphins swimming next to the boat, which feels like a magical moment.
The cruise takes you to small fishing villages, quiet beaches, and hidden caves. One popular place is Telegraph Island, where people worked long ago to send messages through cables. Now it is a calm and beautiful stop where you can swim and enjoy the sea.
Being on a dhow feels peaceful. You hear the sound of the water feel the fresh breeze and see the mountains all around you.
Khasab is perfect if you love adventure. You can climb Jebel Harim the highest mountain in the area. On the way you will see old fossils goats and amazing views that go on forever.
If you like the sea you can go snorkeling or diving. Under the water there are colorful coral reefs many fish and sometimes even reef sharks. Kayaking is another fun way to explore small beaches and quiet spots.
You can also go off-roading in the mountains. The roads twist and turn, and you might find old rock drawings in the village of Tawi. These drawings show stories from a long time ago and are a special part of Khasab’s history.
In Khasab life moves slowly. There are no big crowds, loud music, or busy streets. Instead you hear birds waves and the soft wind. You can sit by the sea walk through palm trees or drink tea while watching the sunset. It’s the perfect place to rest your mind and enjoy the moment. Many people feel calm and happy here because they finally get to escape the stress of daily life.
Even though Khasab feels like a faraway world it is actually very close. From Dubai or Ras Al Khaimah, you can drive there in a few hours. The drive is beautiful with sea views and mountain roads. From Muscat, you can take a short flight or a ferry. The ferry ride takes about five hours and includes food so you can relax and enjoy the sea.
Once you arrive, it’s best to rent a car because there are not many taxis. Some hotels also offer their own transport or tours, which makes it even easier.
Khasab is not just about nature. The people here are kind and proud of their culture. They speak a special language called Kumzari which is a mix of different languages from years of trade and travel.
When you walk in the old town you’ll see small stone mosques, simple houses, and markets selling dates, honey, and local food. If you are lucky you might get invited to a majlis, a traditional gathering where people drink tea share stories and relax together.
The culture in Khasab feels real and welcoming. You don’t just visit it you feel like you’re part of it.
Khasab has a rich history. In the 1600s, the Portuguese built Khasab Castle to help their ships. Today you can visit this castle and learn about the old boat tools and life in the past. There is also another fort called Alkmazrh which is still taken care of by local families.
Khasab has always been an important port. Even today, small boats come from Iran bringing goods and stories from across the sea. You can still feel the old trading spirit in the air.
The food in Khasab is simple but full of flavor. Every day, fishermen bring fresh fish which is grilled or cooked in spicy sauces. You can also enjoy prawns and other seafood dishes. A special dish to try is Shuwa, a lamb dish cooked slowly underground. It is very soft full of spices and tastes amazing. For dessert, try Omani Halwa, a sweet treat with rosewater and nuts.
Many places serve cold fruit drinks and strong black tea called karak. These drinks are perfect after a day in the sun.
Khasab is not just a weekend trip. It is a place where you feel free, where you can enjoy simple things, and where you meet kind people. It is full of storie,s quiet moments, and natural beauty that you will never forget.
If you are looking for a real break from the city, Khasab is waiting for you. Let Dhow Khasab Tours help you explore this hidden gem. You won’t just visit Khasab, you will carry its memories in your heart forever.
Have you ever been to Norway? Musandam Khasab dhow cruise tour brings you an opportunity to explore the “Norway Of Arabia”. Book a Khasab dhow cruise and we bet you will fall in love with the beauty of Khasab Musandam.