Is Musandam in Oman or UAE?

28 March 2025 | | Featured
Is Musandam in Oman or UAE?

If you’ve ever looked at a map of the Arabian Peninsula and spotted Musandam you might have wondered whether it belongs to Oman or the UAE. It’s a fair question because Musandam sits right at the northeastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula jutting into the Strait of Hormuz and is physically separated from the rest of Oman by the UAE. So what’s the deal? Is Musandam part of Oman or the UAE? Let’s clear up the confusion and dive into everything you need to know about this fascinating region.

Musandam: A Part of Oman Separated by the UAE

Musandam is officially a governorate of Oman but it is separated from mainland Oman by the UAE. This means that if you want to travel from Oman to Musandam by land you actually have to go through the UAE. The region covers an area of about 1,800 square kilometers and has a small population of around 49,000 people. Despite its size it holds great importance due to its location near the Strait of Hormuz where a significant portion of the world’s oil passes through.

Why is Musandam Separated from Oman?

Musandam is an exclave of Oman because the United Arab Emirates lies between it and the rest of the country. Historically this was due to tribal governance, natural geography and political agreements. When the modern borders were drawn Musandam remained part of Oman while the land separating it became part of the UAE. This means that to get to Musandam from mainland Oman by land you must travel through the UAE.

A Brief History of Musandam

Musandam has always been somewhat isolated due to its mountainous terrain but it has a long history of being home to local tribes who ruled themselves for centuries. The Shihuh and Habus tribes were among the earliest inhabitants and for a long time the Sultan of Oman had little control over the region. It wasn’t until the 1970s after the British-backed Omani coup that Musandam was fully integrated into Oman’s governance.

Today Musandam remains one of Oman’s most unique and culturally distinct areas with its own way of life, traditions and breathtaking landscapes that make it a must-visit destination.

The Importance of Musandam’s Location

Musandam’s location gives Oman partial control over the Strait of Hormuz one of the most strategic waterways in the world. This narrow passage is where nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply passes through making it an area of high geopolitical significance. Both Oman and Iran share control over this crucial route making Musandam an important region for Oman’s sovereignty and economic interests.

What Makes Musandam Special?

Musandam is famous for its dramatic mountainous landscapes, fjord-like coastline and clear blue waters. It is often called the “Norway of Arabia” because of its deep inlets and towering cliffs. Some of the most popular attractions in Musandam include:

  • Khasab – The capital of Musandam known for its historic forts and lively souks.
  • Jebel Harim – The highest peak in Musandam offering stunning panoramic views.
  • Dhow Cruises – Traditional boat trips that take you through the breathtaking fjords.
  • Dibba Al-Bay’ah – A scenic coastal town with rich marine life and beautiful beaches.

How Do You Get to Musandam?

Because Musandam is separated from the rest of Oman by the UAE getting there takes a little planning. There are three main ways to reach Musandam:

  • By road: If you’re coming from the UAE you can drive to Musandam from Dubai, Abu Dhabi or any of the northern emirates. The most common border crossing is at Ras Al Khaimah. It’s a scenic drive and depending on where you start it can take anywhere from two to four hours.
  • By air: Oman Air operates flights between Muscat the capital of Oman and Khasab the capital of Musandam. This is the quickest way to get there if you’re traveling from within Oman.
  • By sea: There’s also a ferry service that connects Muscat to Musandam making for a stunning journey along Oman’s coastline.

If you’re driving from the UAE keep in mind that you’ll need to pass through border control. Make sure your passport is valid and check visa requirements in advance.

Can You Visit Musandam from the UAE?

Yes! In fact Musandam is a very popular weekend getaway for people living in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other parts of the UAE. Many tour companies offer day trips or overnight stays making it easy to escape the city and immerse yourself in Musandam’s natural beauty. Just make sure you have your passport and any necessary visas sorted before you go.

Do You Need a Visa to Visit Musandam Oman?

One of the most common questions people ask is whether they need a visa to visit Musandam. The answer depends on where you are traveling from. If you are coming from the UAE you will need to go through an Omani border checkpoint and visa requirements will apply based on your nationality. Many visitors from the UAE visit Musandam for a day trip as it is just a few hours away from Dubai and Abu Dhabi. However it’s worth staying longer to fully explore the beauty of the region.

Conclusion

So is Musandam in Oman or the UAE? It is in Oman but because it is an exclave it is physically separated from the rest of the country by the UAE. This unique geography makes Musandam one of the most interesting and strategically significant regions in the Arabian Peninsula. If you are planning a visit exploring Musandam’s rugged beauty by boat is an unforgettable experience. For the best dhow cruises and guided tours check out Dhow Khasab Tours for your next Musandam tour!

 

request tour price

Share this post

Written by : @Dhow Khasab Tours
28 March 2025

KHASAB MUSANDAM TOUR PACKAGES

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.

1 / 5
Best Selling

Full Day Dhow Cruise

KHASAB MUSANDAM DHOW CRUISE TO MUSANDAM FJORDS Full day Khasab Musandam dhow cruise brings you an opportunity to watch dolphins, snorkeling swimming, and view of Musandam Fjords. ...
Reserve Now
Best Selling

Overnight Dhow Cruise

KHASAB MUSANDAM OVERNIGHT DHOW CRUISE FROM DUBAI Khasab Musandam overnight dhow cruise is the best way to amuse yourself with the breath-taking beauty of the Musandam Sea in the m...
Reserve Now
Luxury Tour

Musandam Luxury Cruise

Musandam luxury cruise brings you an opportunity to experience the amazing pristine world in Musandam Oman like no other place on Earth, where fun and surprises come in waves. Spen...
Reserve Now
Best Selling

Half Day Dhow Cruise

MUSANDAM KHASAB HALF DAY DHOW CRUISE TELEGRAPH ISLAND Musandam Khasab half day dhow cruise is short but full action packed trip offering a chance to see dolphins, snorkeling swim...
Reserve Now
Adventurous

Overnight Beach Camping

KHASAB MUSANDAM BEACH CAMPING WITH DHOW CRUISE Musandam Khasab beach camping is an adventurous tour package combined with a full day dhow cruise. Dolphin watching, snorkeling swim...
Reserve Now
Best Selling

Dubai Khasab Tour

KHASAB MUSANDAM TOUR FROM DUBAI, SHARJAH & RAK Looking for the Khasab Musandam Tour From Dubai? You are in right place! We offer Khasab Musandam trip from Dubai, Sharjah, and ...
Reserve Now

Related Articles

First Time in Khasab? Here’s Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

First Time in Khasab? Here’s Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Planning your first trip to Khasab? You’re in for something special. This place isn’t just another beach town. It’s where the mountains meet the sea most dramatically. From peaceful dhow cruises to spotting dolphins in the wild, Khasab is full of little moments that stay with you. But to really enjoy it you need to […]

Read More
⁠Everything You Didn’t Know You Could Do on a Dhow Cruise

⁠Everything You Didn’t Know You Could Do on a Dhow Cruise

At first, a dhow cruise sounds pretty simple a slow boat ride, some dinner, maybe a nice view of the city skyline. But the truth is, it’s so much more than that. What you may not realize is just how many beautiful, surprising, and even magical moments are waiting for you once you’re out on […]

Read More
Why Khasab Is the UAE’s Best Weekend Escape and Nobody Talks About It

Why Khasab Is the UAE’s Best Weekend Escape and Nobody Talks About It

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 […]

Read More