Musandam is Oman's northernmost governorate, facing the Strait of Hormuz. It is also the smallest, at about 1,800 square kilometres and about 56,000 people. A strip of UAE land separates it from the rest of Oman, and its fjords have earned it the nickname "Norway of Arabia".
The four wilayats
- Khasab, the main town, known for its old forts.
- Bukha, known for its sandy beaches.
- Dibba, where mountain and coastal scenery meet.
- Madha, with freshwater springs and valleys.
What to see and do
- Khasab Fort, overlooking the Strait of Hormuz, with its defensive towers.
- Madha Museum, with archaeological and heritage pieces.
- Boat tours through the fjords.
- Diving in the waters around the peninsula.
- Mountain treks in the high ground above the coast.
How to get there
Oman's tourism site says Musandam can be reached by land, sea and air.
- By sea: high-speed catamarans run by Oman National Ships Company connect Shinas and Musandam. Ships also call at Khasab.
- By road: the route from the rest of Oman crosses UAE territory, so check the entry rules for both countries first. See Oman visa options, including the Dubai / Oman common visa.
Check current schedules and border rules before you travel, because they change.
More to read
See how Musandam fits with the rest of the country in the governorates of Oman. Below you will find stays and car rentals in Musandam once our team has checked them.
Stay in Musandam
Rent a car in Musandam
Frequently asked questions
Why is Musandam called the Norway of Arabia?
Because of its fjords, where steep mountains drop straight into the sea.
Is Musandam connected to the rest of Oman by road?
Not directly. A strip of UAE land separates it from the rest of the country, so driving there means crossing UAE territory. Check the entry rules for both countries before you set off.
Can I reach Musandam without crossing the UAE?
Yes. Oman's tourism site says Musandam can be reached by sea and air as well as by land, and that high-speed catamarans run between Shinas and Musandam.