Musandam witnesses the extraordinary meeting of the mighty mountains and the emerald-green oceans. Here, the Hajar Mountains embrace the Strait of Hormuz to give magnificent panoramas. The place stands out with its quaint coastal villages, historic forts, unique culture, and incredible marine life. As Musandam became accessible by roads only recently, much remains untouched and unblemished.
Musandam holds innumerable surprises for people who are accustomed to city life. Fjords, a long, narrow inlet amid cliffs, are one of the most mesmerizing views.
Khasab is the central city and capital of Musandam province in Oman. It is an exclave of Oman situated in the United Arab Emirates. Many people are unaware of this place or miss it because it is difficult to reach. But the effort will be worth it, as Khasab will steal your hearts with its pristine charm. This is the perfect spot to escape artificial city life and admire the jaw-dropping natural scenery.
Musandam is fondly called ‘The Norway of Arabia.’ Khasab flourishes through trade, and its port is the main attraction. It is one of the very few places where you can see the authentic Bedouin lifestyle and traditions.
The best way to explore the area is in a traditional Omani wooden dhow. As you move through the crystal-clear water, you can see the secluded villages along the soaring cliffs.
Dolphin watching is a main highlight of the Musandam tour. These lovely creatures swim with your dhow and frequently pop out of the water. There are a lot of water sports for thrill-seekers. See the marine life for yourself by swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Try a banana boat ride if you want to have fun with your friends. Find a perfect spot for camping, barbeque, and enjoying the natural beauty.
Don’t miss Telegraph Island.
The historical Telegraph Island, also known as Jazirat al Maqlab, lies in the Elphinstone Inlet, about a mile off the shore of Musandam Peninsula. It got the name ‘Telegraph’ from the telegraph repeater station built by the British in 1864. It played a significant role in the communication between Karachi and London.
Now, only the remnants of the station remain. Still, it is one of the most visited spots in Musandam. The place is hailed for colorful fish and water sports like snorkeling. You can camp here and relish the beautiful beaches.
Things you should know before going to Khasab.
You can travel from Dubai to Khasab via road. The road to Oman is lovely, with bays, harbors, mosques, forts, and beaches. The approximate distance from Dubai Clock Tower to Khasab is 200 km. You must get a visa at the Oman border, costing around 50 AED.
The visa stamping procedure might take some time. However, if you book a trip, a tour company will handle all these procedures and take you to Khasab, which means you can save time and avoid the hassle.
Whenever you feel like you need a break from your hectic life, pay a visit to Musandam Khasab. Rejuvenate yourself in the cool breeze and warm waters. It is just a ride away from Dubai. It will be the best treat you can give your eyes and soul. Khasab is genuinely a fantastic piece of art created by nature.