Cross-border route

United Arab Emirates Oman

Driving across the border

Yes — you can drive from United Arab Emirates into Oman, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Oman expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the 1949 Geneva format. Both countries drive on the right, so there is no change of driving side at the border. The Hili/Al Ain crossing is the main road route between the UAE and Oman.

Get my permit for Oman Oman requirements

Last reviewed June 2026

Route at a glance

FromUnited Arab Emirates

ToOman

IDP in OmanRequired

Accepted format1949 Geneva

Driving sideright (no change)

Currency in OmanOMR

United Arab Emirates → Oman

Crossing the border

The Hili/Al Ain crossing is the main road route between the UAE and Oman.

Driving rules in Oman

Drive on the right.
Zero-tolerance alcohol law for driving.
Speed cameras and radar widespread.
4x4 recommended for desert and wadi routes.

What to see when you arrive in Oman

the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat
the fjords of Musandam
the Wahiba Sands
the Jebel Akhdar mountains
the wadis of Nizwa

Common questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from United Arab Emirates to Oman?

Yes — Oman requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Oman recognises the 1949 Geneva format, which is what we issue.

Does the driving side change between United Arab Emirates and Oman?

No. Both United Arab Emirates and Oman drive on the right.

How quickly can I get an IDP for this trip?

International Driver Licence issues your digital IDP in as fast as 8 minutes, so you can have it ready before you set off.

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