Journeying From Abu Dhabi To Salalah By Road

What makes road trips so cool? Is it the flexibility to choose your traveling dates, or the freedom to make as many stops as you desire? Or do you just find road trips to be cheaper and much more hassle-free than flights?

For us, road trips are all of this, and so much more. Road trips connect us to nature, air, and everything around us in a way that nothing else can do. We see things differently and feel everything in a much more tangible way. Road trips bring us as close to our dreams as possible, which is why today we are planning the perfect itinerary from Abu Dhabi to Salalah by road.

 

When Is The Best Time Of The Year To Make The Abu Dhabi To Salalah Road Trip?

We strongly suggest making a road trip from Abu Dhabi to Salalah during the monsoon season. The monsoon season, also known as Khareef, makes Salalah a sight to behold because the whole city turns into a beautiful oasis. Cool wind and light drizzles transform the city into a lush green landscape that promotes the growth of bananas, coconuts, and other fruits and vegetables.

The best time of the year to make the Abu Dhabi to Salalah road trip is between July and September. During these months weather in the Middle East is comfortable and it is also an off-peak month in Abu Dhabi. This means that you will find less traffic throughout your journey and reach your destination in the desired time.

What Is The Best Route To Travel From Abu Dhabi To Salalah By Road?

If you are traveling from Abu Dhabi to Salalah, take the Mezyad Border. Abu Dhabi is approximately 1,244 km away from Salalah, and it takes almost 12 hours and 22 min to reach there. The best route to travel from Abu Dhabi to Salalah by road is Route 31. This route has tolls and crosses a country border. The direct route is mapped out in the following way;

• Start your drive from Abu Dhabi and make your way towards Al Ain within the UAE
• Next, drive from Al Ain to Buraimi. Buraimi is within the Omani territory and shares borders with Al Ain.
• It is this Buraimi-Al Ain border post where you will have to comply with the immigration documentation and other regulations.
• Once you are in Buraimi, travel up to Ibri.
• From Ibri, route 29 goes to Salalah, the shortest route to your destination. 
• The route from Ibri to Salalah meets the main highway.
• Once you are on the main highway, and en route to Salalah, you will come across Haima.
• From Haima, it is a straight drive all the way to Salalah.

 

Are There Any Landmarks Along The Abu Dhabi To Salalah Road Trip Worth Stopping For?

1. AlMaqta’a Fort

CFCQ+F9P – Sas Al Nakhl – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates 

AlMaqta’a Fort is a historical site that dates back to 200 years. While you are making your journey, make sure to stop for a while and admire this beautiful architectural wonder, either up close or from far away. AlMaqta’a Fort is a beautiful change from the glitz and glamor of Abu Dhabi, and if you happen to be in the area when the sun is setting, then you are in for an incredible view.

---

2. Green Mubazzarah Lake

Mbazzarah Al Khadra – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates

When traveling from Abu Dhabi to Salalah, don’t forget to stop at the lush Green Mubazzarah Lake in Al Ain. These plains are surrounded by hard rocks and tall dry hills. You will find this lake park at the foot of Jebel Hafeet, which is an enormous and stunning mountain in Abu Dhabi. What makes Green Mubazzarah Lake an attractive landmark along your road trip is its grasslands which are strikingly in contrast with the desert landscape.

---

3. Qasr Al Muwaiji

Khalifa Bin Zayed St – Al Muwaij’i – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates

Being Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s birthplace, Qasr Al Muwaiji has a special historical significance in UAE. You will find this fort when approaching Al Ain from the west, and it is totally worth stopping for as Qasr Al Muwaiji is a fine example of mud brick architecture of the early 20^th century. The fort has a grand entrance gate and corner towers that project out from the square enclosure, and there is also an exhibition hall that tells the story of the Qasr Al Muwaiji fort in a glass-walled space.

---

4. Al Ain Zoo

Nahyan The First St – Shiab Al Ashkhar – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates

Another important landmark when traveling from Abu Dhabi to Salalah by road is the Al Ain Zoo. This zoo is located in the Jebel Hafeet foothills in Al Ain and houses more than 4000 animals. Here you can have an exciting giraffe feeding experience, have fun in the Elezba petting zoo, and experience camel riding as well. 

---

5. Wahat AlKarama

3rd St Khor – United Arab Emirates

Wahat AlKarama is located opposite to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It is a national tribute that tells the story of the war heroes of the UAE. Also known as the Oasis of Dignity, it is a notable and modern memorial that has 3 structures – the memorial, the memorial plaza, and the Pavilion of Honor. The stunning architecture is free to visit every day from 9 am to 10 pm and is popular for the breathtaking view it gives of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque. 

---

How Are The Road Conditions From Abu Dhabi To Salalah?

Oman has developed its road system and invested a lot of money to improve their condition as compared to the past. From UAE to Oman, you will find the roads to be well maintained and dotted with facilities and emergency services, which means that while traveling between these two countries, you and your family are safe.

However, one thing you must know before traveling from Abu Dhabi to Salalah by road, is that the highway from Al Ain to Adam is two-way and most of the time, unlit. This means that the traffic comes from both ways, and you have to be alert and fully focused to avoid any mishaps.

The drivers are what present the most danger on these roads. You have to be wary of other drivers who are driving with burnout minds and bodies, as they are the ones who can also fall asleep mid-drive.

Sandstorms can result in the formation of small dunes on the roads, and hitting them at a high speed can be extremely dangerous. Make sure that you are vigilant at all times. The roads are also mostly unlit, which is why it is wiser to leave UAE at night so that by the time you are in Oman, it is daytime. 

Is There Any Alternative Route You Can Take From Abu Dhabi To Salalah?

If you are traveling by road only for the sake of enjoying the journey, then there is an alternative route that is far more serene and fun-filled than the direct route. The alternative route you can take from Abu Dhabi to Salalah is the coastal route.

The coastal route runs from UAE to Muscat, and then Salalah. It is a much longer route than the direct inland route, but you will find tons of sightseeing opportunities and places to stay.

How Can You Avoid Heavy Traffic And Extreme Weather Conditions During Your Abu Dhabi To Salalah Road Trip?

Here are a few tips that will help you avoid heavy traffic and extreme weather conditions during your Abu Dhabi to Salalah road trip.

• Check the weather forecast along the route before starting your journey.
• Plan your road trip during non-peak hours.
• Use a reliable navigation app to get real-time traffic updates.
• Keep updated with traffic and news reports for any accidents or closures along the way.
• Always keep an emergency kit and items for urgent vehicle repair.
• Get advice from locals and online forums about specific detours, roadblocks, and recommended stops.

 

How Is The Mobile Network Coverage Along The Way?

You will find good signals when traveling from Abu Dhabi to Salalah by road. Keep your communication devices charged and topped up with credit, the main highways provide reliable and consistent mobile network coverage. 

However, we strongly advise keeping a local SIM card so that there are no connectivity issues in remote areas. You will have to make sure that you are connected at all times and have access to navigation tools.

What Are The Considerations For Border Crossing Between UAE And Oman?

Crossing the UAE-Omani border is a smooth process, but you still need to adhere to a few policies and regulations. Make sure that you are keeping all your vehicle and personal documentation with you. To travel from Abu Dhabi to Salalah by road, you will need a passport, which should be valid for at least 6 months.  

UAE expats going to Salalah from Abu Dhabi must have their UAE residency valid for at least 3 months and passports valid for at least 6 months.

Other documentation you may need are the vehicle’s registration card, proof of ownership of the car, and if the car is not yours, then written permission of NOC from the owner. There will be some other customary checks where officials will check your travel documents and paperwork necessary for border crossing.

What Are The Visa Requirements?

The GCC residents can get a visa on arrival. But to save time and ensure a hassle-free border crossing, you can also apply for an e-visa. UAE residents traveling from Abu Dhabi to Salalah for less than 14 days can enter visa-free. 

How Do You Deal With Vehicle Breakdown Or Any Other Emergency During The Trip?

Before driving from Abu Dhabi to Salalah by road, make sure that you get your car serviced. Safety must always be prioritized which is why a well-maintained car with spare wheels and tires in excellent condition will make sure your vehicle doesn’t break down mid-journey.

You should familiarize yourself with local emergency services and roadside assistance, as well as auto insurance, and have their contact numbers memorized. During your whole itinerary make sure that you are keeping any friend or family member aware of your live location, and stay in contact with them regularly. 

Can I Take A Bus Instead From Abu Dhabi To Salalah?

Traveling from Abu Dhabi to Salalah by bus is the cheapest way to get from UAE to Oman. Traveling by bus will only cost between AED 120 and AED 200 and is much cheaper than traveling by car. Plus, with a bus, you will escape the hassle of finding parking places, reduce driving fatigue and stress, and it is much safer than driving alone. 

What Safety Precautions Should You Keep In Mind When Travelling From Abu Dhabi To Salalah By Road?

 

Knowing Arabic is an extreme advantage when traveling from Abu Dhabi to Salalah by road. In this way, you can always ask the locals for directions whenever you are in doubt. Arabic is the official language of both UAE and Oman, so even having a basic grip on the language will work in your favor.

Make sure that you are driving only during the daytime. The interior Omani roads can be very dangerous to drive at night, as they are most often single-lane. This means that the to and fro traffic runs on the same road, and sometimes at high-speed range. To avoid any unforeseen events, try to stay overnight at a lodge or resort, and resume your journey the next day. Plus a good night’s rest will leave you refreshed and alert in the morning for your remaining drive.

---