Dibba lies along the eastern coast of the UAE, split between into three territories: Fujairah, Sharjah and Mussandam, Oman. An exclave that is encapsulated by mountains to the west and north and sea to the east, Dibba, Oman can only be entered by crossing the UAE border. A sleep fishing coastal town, it is reminiscent of a simpler time in the gulf, before modernisation and urbanisation took over the deserts and mountains.
Nestled on the Strait of Hormuz, Dibba Oman, has a population of less than 30,000. An important port of pre-Islamic Arabia, Dibba was traditionally renowned as a copper-exporting centre for the interior of Oman and was rather prosperous at the time of the emergence of Islam.
Both UAE Residents and Tourists can enter Dibba, so long as they are on a valid visa/have not overstayed. Though there is no passport stamping at the border, documents are needed 4 days before entry to arrange the permits to enter Dibba, arranged by our partnering tour operator.
Dibba is a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Dubai city, just on the border of Dibba Sharjah/Fujairah. After entry into Dibba Musandam, the port is a 10 minute drive.
History of Mussandam Dibba
Many colonial powers and regional kings occupied this tiny place in the past. During Abbasid Caliph Al-Mu’tadid, a battle was fought in the town of Dibba to conquer Oman at the wish of the governors of Iraq and Bahrain. At the time of the Portuguese, it had around four fortresses, and the largest of them is still standing.
Hike
This trail follows the eastern coast of Dibba, ascending from the beach start towards unmarked trails that ascend and descend to stunning views of the coast. A range of local flora can also be found along the route, as well as a few slippers and other personal items as it had once been a smuggling route for people coming from Iran. Our final destination will be a cove area, exposing a beautiful beach and some clear water filled with tiny schools of fish. From here, the speedboat will take us to the Dhow boat to meet up for other activities.
*Please note that the trail for the hike maybe adjusted according the overall fitness level of the group.
