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Where can we go for a weekend away?
One of the best things about living in the UAE is how much is within a few hours’ drive. Here’s how to plan short breaks, including the paperwork for driving into Oman.
In 30 seconds
- Mountains, beaches and desert in the other emirates are within about 2 hours of Dubai
- British citizens can visit Oman for up to 14 days without a visa
- Driving to Oman needs your documents, insurance that covers Oman, and the UAE exit fee of AED 35
Ideas within the UAE
| Trip | Why people go |
|---|---|
| Hatta | Mountains, kayaking and mountain biking, about 90 minutes from Dubai |
| Ras Al Khaimah | The Jebel Jais mountain road and beach resorts |
| Fujairah and the east coast | Snorkelling and diving on the Gulf of Oman |
| Abu Dhabi | Museums, the Grand Mosque and island beaches |
| The desert | Camping and dune drives in the cooler months |
Driving to Oman
British citizens can visit Oman for up to 14 days without a visa. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after you arrive.
| You need | Details |
|---|---|
| Documents | Passport, Emirates ID, driving licence and the car’s registration card |
| A borrowed or company car | A no-objection letter from the owner. Rental companies have their own rules, so ask first |
| Insurance for Oman | Many UAE comprehensive policies include Oman. If yours doesn’t, buy cover at the border |
| The UAE exit fee | AED 35 |
Check before you go. Border rules and fees change, especially around holidays. Check FCDO travel advice for Oman and your insurer’s cover before you set off.
Making it work
- Long weekends around public holidays sell out early: book hotels well ahead
- From May to September, plan for indoor or water-based trips, or head for the mountains, where it’s cooler
- Keep your residence visa in mind on longer trips: staying outside the UAE for more than 180 days in a row cancels it
What to do next
- Check whether your car insurance covers Oman
- Note the public holidays and book early
- Keep your passport and Emirates ID in the car for border crossings
Keep going
Sources
- FCDO: Oman entry requirements
- Gulf News: driving to Oman from the UAE (May 2026)
- u.ae: general provisions for the residence visa