Our Musandam, Oman Getaway from Dubai, UAE: A Perfect Two-Day Escape

 Sometimes all you need is a short getaway to feel refreshed, and our trip to Musandam, Oman turned out to be exactly that—calm, scenic, and full of unforgettable moments. It was a refreshing escape filled with scenic landscapes, ocean adventures, and peaceful moments.

@hiitsbev Our road trip to Khasab, Musandam Oman #khasab #musandam #oman #dolphins ♬ Morning Happy Background Music - Wavepaper ID

The Journey Begins

We started our day early, leaving home around 7:00 AM. The drive was smooth, and we reached the border by 9:00 AM. Immigration and border formalities took approximately 45 minutes, which wasn’t too bad considering it was a weekend. With passports stamped and excitement building, we continued our journey toward Khasab.

Early Arrival, New Plans

By around 12:00 PM, we arrived at Atana Khasab Hotel hoping to check in, only to realize that check-in time was 3:00 PM. Instead of waiting around, we decided to make the most of our time—and that turned out to be a great decision.

Dhow Cruise Adventure

We headed straight to our planned dhow cruise instead of waiting. The cruise began at 1:00 PM and included dolphin watching, swimming, and snorkeling. Sailing through Musandam’s dramatic fjords and witnessing dolphins in their natural habitat was an unforgettable experience.

Hotel Time & Relaxation

After the cruise, we returned to the hotel to finally check in. The evening was all about relaxation—a refreshing swim, a delicious dinner, and unwinding after a long but exciting day. The calm atmosphere of the hotel made the night feel extra special.

Scenic Views at Khor Najd

The next day, after breakfast, we headed to Khor Najd, one of the most scenic viewpoints in Musandam. The winding mountain roads and the panoramic view from the top were absolutely worth it. Standing there, surrounded by mountains and the sea, felt peaceful and surreal—definitely a must-visit spot.

Heading Back Home

With beautiful memories and plenty of photos, we began our journey back home. Though the trip was short, Musandam left a lasting impression on us with its natural beauty, calm waters, and relaxed pace.

Final Thoughts

Our Musandam trip was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. From dolphin watching and snorkeling to mountain views and quiet evenings, it was a getaway we’ll always remember—and one we’d happily do again.

Top 3 Best camping site in Dubai

 1. Al Qudra Lakes / Al Marmoom Desert

Why Go:

Very close to Dubai (about 30‑60 min depending where you start) so it’s accessible even for a short overnight. 

Scenic lakes, wildlife (including flamingos, migratory birds), and lots of space to spread out tents, do BBQs (with restrictions), relax, stargaze. 

Features like Love Lake, and good cycling tracks nearby. Great mixture of “close to nature” but still not too far from facilities. 

When to Go:

Best from November to March when nights are cooler and weather is pleasant. In other months it can get very hot. 

2. Hatta Mountains / Hatta Dam Area

Why Go:

Mountain scenery gives cooler weather especially in evenings; more rugged terrain. 

Activities available: hiking, kayaking on Hatta Dam, mountain biking. Adds variety beyond just camping. 

Several glamping/resort‑camping options are available if you want a mix of comfort and nature. 

When to Go:

Also works best in cooler months (late autumn to early spring). Avoid mid‑summer which can be very warm. 

3. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve / Lahbab Desert

Why Go:

Offers a more remote, authentic desert experience: big dunes, wide open landscapes, great for those who want to disconnect and embrace desert nights. 

Wildlife and fewer disturbances. In the reserve you have restrictions to help protect nature, which makes the place quieter. 

Adventure options: dune‑bashing, sandboarding, stargazing are especially rewarding here. 

When to Go:

Same “cool season” applies — November through March is ideal for overnight camping. Evening temps are more tolerable, nights are comfortable. 

Tips & Things to Keep in Mind

Permits & rules: Some areas (especially conservation reserves) require permits; follow local laws about fires, littering, BBQs. 

Bring supplies: Water, food, shade, insect repellent. Even near lakes there may not always be shops close by.

Vehicle: 4×4 helps for desert tracks, though some spots (like parts of Al Qudra) are accessible for normal cars if you don’t stray too far. 

@hiitsbev Pet friendly glamping site in Ras Al Khaimah. Only 1.5hrs drive from Dubai. #glamping #bananbeach #rasalkhaimah #traveltiktok ♬ original sound - hiitsbev

Kimura-Ya: A Slice of Japan in the Heart of Al Jaddaf

Tucked away on the first floor of the Marriott Hotel in Al Jaddaf, Kimura-Ya offers a deeply authentic Japanese dining experience that’s hard to come by in Dubai. Originating from Japan with over 200 branches, Kimura-Ya brings the spirit of a traditional izakaya to life through a rich blend of comforting food, warm hospitality, and immersive décor.

The ambiance hits the right notes from the moment you step inside — think soft lighting, wooden finishes, Japanese lanterns, and iconic Daruma dolls that lend charm and character. Designed by Mayuka Kojima, the interiors transport you straight to a cozy eatery in Tokyo, minus the 10-hour flight.

The menu is a true showcase of Japanese culinary tradition. Guests can indulge in everything from classic sushi and sashimi to heartier options like shabu-shabu hotpot and yakiniku (Japanese BBQ). The hotpot, in particular, is a standout — a bubbling pot of rich broth with fresh vegetables and thinly sliced meat that you cook at your table. For those craving variety, their unlimited sushi promotion is a crowd-pleaser, offering quality and quantity at a great value.

The restaurant also boasts an impressive selection of Japanese beverages, including sake, shochu, and premium Japanese whiskeys. Service is another highlight, with many staff members hailing directly from Japan, adding to the authenticity of the experience.

Whether you're a long-time fan of Japanese cuisine or exploring it for the first time, Kimura-Ya strikes the perfect balance between tradition and comfort. It’s more than just a restaurant — it’s a cultural experience, making it a must-visit for food lovers in Dubai.