New Bus Service Connects Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam: A Cross-Border Transportation Link for Enhanced Tourism and Mobility
Route between UAE and Oman runs three days a week and costs Dh50 one way.
Ras Al Khaimah, UAE – In a significant development, the Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority, in collaboration with the Musandam Governorate, has launched a new bus service connecting Ras Al Khaimah and Musandam. The route operates on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with departure times at 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.
This landmark service marks the first direct bus link between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Oman, commencing with its inaugural journey on a Friday. The approximately three-hour journey offers travelers a convenient and affordable transportation option, with one-way tickets priced at Dh50.
Ismail Hassan Al Balushi, Director General of the authority, highlighted the service’s alignment with the UAE’s leadership directives to bolster tourism and facilitate the movement of individuals, catering to both residents and tourists. This initiative contributes to strengthening the bond between the two neighboring countries.
This newly launched service is an integral component of the authority’s 2023-2027 strategy, which aims to promote public transportation and advocate shared mobility solutions as sustainable, reliable, and safe transportation alternatives.
Starting from the main bus station (Al Dhait South) in Ras Al Khaimah, the route includes two stops within the emirate, namely Al Rams and Shaam area, offering convenience and accessibility to passengers. This service signifies a promising step forward in enhancing connectivity and tourism prospects between the UAE and Oman.”
Before embarking on this cross-border trip, however, UAE residents and tourists must take note of visa requirements and other travel essentials.
Requirements
A customer service representative from RAKTA has provided clear information regarding the prerequisites for UAE residents planning to use the Ras Al Khaimah-Musandam bus service:
- Passport (with at least six months of validity)
- Emirates ID (with at least six months of validity)
The representative explained that UAE residents have the option to obtain an Oman visa at the border when entering Oman.
For UAE tourists holding a single-entry visit visa, here are the requirements:
- Obtain an Oman Visit Visa: Prior to your journey, it’s necessary to acquire an Oman visit visa.
- Submit a UAE Visa Application in Oman: To ensure your return to the UAE, you must submit a visa application while you are in Oman. It’s crucial to secure this UAE visa before commencing your journey back to the UAE.
For tourists with multiple-entry visit visas:
- An Oman visa before departure is required.
- Re-entry can be facilitated with a multiple-entry visa. However, their passport should be valid for six months to enter Oman.
Fees, visa costs
At the UAE border, residents leaving the country must pay the exit fee of Dh36. An Oman visa may be obtained at the Oman border by paying Dh50.
Route
From the UAE, the service starts at the main bus station (Al Dhait South) in Ras Al Khaimah, making two stops in the emirate — at Al Rams and Shaam area.
In Musandam, the service will start and end at Wilayat of Khasab, with stops at Tibaat, Wilayat of Bukha, Harf, and Qada area.