Getting Around Khasab
A practical guide on transport, taxis, and car rentals in Musandam.
Navigating Khasab requires a bit of pre-planning. Unlike major cities like Dubai or Muscat, public transportation is practically non-existent, and hailing a taxi off the street is rare.
Whether you arrive via the UAE border, by the Shinas ferry, or via Oman Air, knowing how you plan to move between your hotel and Khasab's attractions will save you time and money. Here are your primary options:
Transport Options
Taxis
Taxis (usually orange and white) exist but they don't cruise the streets. You'll usually find them at the airport, port, or outside major hotels. It's best to get your hotel to order one or take the driver's WhatsApp number.
Car Rental
Renting a car allows maximum flexibility. While a sedan is fine for Khasab town, Bassa Beach, and coastal roads to Tibat, you MUST rent a 4x4 if you intend to drive up Jebel Harim or to Khor Najd.
Walking
Khasab is spread out. While you can walk around the central souq area or along the corniche near the port, walking between hotels and major sites (like Khasab Fort) during the day can be uncomfortably hot.
Tour Operators
Jazar Musandam and other operators provide all transport for booked tours. Whether it's a dhow cruise or mountain safari, hotel pickup and drop-off are typically included.
Renting a Car in Khasab
If you choose not to pre-book guided tours, renting a car is the most sensible option. There are a few local rental agencies near the airport and in town.
Standard Sedan vs. 4x4: If you plan to stick to Khasab town, visit the Khasab Fort, Bassa Beach, or drive the coastal road towards Tibat, a standard 2WD sedan is perfectly fine.
Warning: The road to Jebel Harim (the highest peak) and the viewpoint at Khor Najd is unpaved, steep, and treacherous in areas. Royal Oman Police strictly enforce a "4x4 vehicles only" rule for these mountain roads.
Driving a UAE Rental Car into Oman
Many tourists drive up from Dubai or Abu Dhabi. If you are renting a car in the UAE with the intention of crossing the border into Khasab:
- You MUST obtain an NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the UAE rental company specifically permitting you to cross the Oman border. Many cheap rental companies do not allow this.
- You must ensure the vehicle has Omani insurance cover. If it doesn't, you can usually buy temporary third-party insurance at the border crossing.
Did you know?
If you book a Half Day or Full Day Dhow cruise with Jazar Musandam, complimentary return transfers are included from anywhere inside Khasab town! This means you can save entirely on taxi or car rental costs for your day out on the water.
View Dhow Cruises →Want to avoid driving?
Our mountain safaris use expert local guide drivers with heavy duty 4x4s.
View Mountain Safari