Dreaming of mist-covered hills, coconut palms, and cool mountain air? Plan your Abu Dhabi to Salalah road trip. It’s Oman’s southern gem, which draws UAE residents every summer with its tropical charm.
Whether you’re travelling for adventure, relaxation, or family time, getting there from Abu Dhabi is simple – with flights, road trips, and long-haul buses connecting both cities.
Located about 1,250 km from Abu Dhabi, Salalah offers a lush escape from the UAE’s desert scenery. You can reach it by plan, car, or bus, depending on your budget and time. Flights are the fastest option, while driving lets you enjoy Oman’s desert and mountain landscapes at your own pace.
- From Abu Dhabi to Salalah by road
- Flight options: Abu Dhabi to Salalah
- Bus: Public transport from Abu Dhabi to Salalah
- Cost comparison: Flights, road, and bus
- Visa, border, and entry requirements
- Travel tips and recommendations
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
From Abu Dhabi to Salalah by Car
For those who enjoy the open road, the Abu Dhabi–Salalah drive is a scenic desert adventure.
Route information
- Distance: ~1,249 km (≈ 776 miles).
- Duration: 14–15 hours, depending on stops and border clearance.
- Typical route:
Abu Dhabi → Al Ain → Buraimi (Oman border) → Ibri → Nizwa → Thumrait → Salalah.
Expect to see vast desert plains, camel crossings, and small Omani towns along the way.
Vehicle and road conditions
- Roads are paved, clearly signposted, and well-maintained, making them suitable for a standard 2WD sedan.
- Consider a 4WD if you plan to explore wadis or mountain trails near Salalah.
- Fuel stations appear every 80–100 km and accept OMR cash or cards.
- Ensure you carry:
- Passport and UAE residence visa (if applicable)
- Vehicle registration (Mulkiya)
- Omani car insurance certificate (available at the border)
- Valid driving licence
- Oman eVisa (apply online beforehand)
Tips for driving
- Start early – reach the border by mid-morning to avoid long queues.
- Bring water, snacks, and a power bank for emergencies.
- Avoid night driving – lighting is minimal, and wildlife may wander onto the road.
- Break the journey overnight in:
- Nizwa – historic fort, mountain views.
- Haima or Thumrait – mid-way rest points.
Driving allows you to explore Oman’s culture, stop in local cafés, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
Flight options: Abu Dhabi to Salalah
Flying is the quickest and easiest way to reach Salalah, ideal for travellers who want a short, stress-free journey.
Major airlines and routes
- Direct flights operate from Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) to Salalah International Airport (SLL).
- Leading carriers: Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, Etihad Airways, and Wizz Air Abu Dhabi (expected to cease Abu Dhabi operations by late 2025).
- Indirect flights are available via Muscat, Doha, or Bahrain.
Flight schedules and fares
- Non-stop flight time: ~1 hour 50 minutes.
- Direct flights per week: Approximately four direct flights operate per week, with slight variations by season.
- Fares: start from $111 (≈ AED 408) for economy. Business class ranges from $450 to $800.
- During the autumn (June–September) and school holidays, fares rise sharply; early booking is essential.
- Families can save through airline bundle deals and advance seat sales.
How to book
You can book through:
- Compare prices using Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Expedia for the best deals.
- Directly on the Air Arabia or Etihad websites for loyalty benefits.
Airport tips:
- Arrive at AUH at least 2 hours before departure.
- Bring your passport, residency ID, and Oman visa (if applicable).
- Check-in usually closes 45 minutes before takeoff.
For travellers not taking the Abu Dhabi to Salalah by road route, Salalah Airport offers taxis and car rentals on arrival, with downtown just 15 minutes away.
Bus: Public transport from Abu Dhabi to Salalah
Travelling by bus is slower but economical – ideal for backpackers or students.
Bus companies and connections
- There is no direct bus between Abu Dhabi and Salalah.
- Take a UAE intercity bus to Muscat, then continue to Salalah with Mwasalat, Oman’s national operator.
Typical routes and transfers
- Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station → Muscat (Burj Sahwa Terminal) → Salalah (Mwasalat Terminal).
- Total duration: 21–22 hours.
- Fares: $30–60 (one way).
- Travellers often spend a night in Muscat before connecting southward.
Key considerations
- Check Mwasalat’s website for updated schedules.
- Carry passport, Oman visa, and essentials like snacks and chargers.
- Expect long gaps between rest stops – especially on the Muscat–Salalah leg.
While lengthy, the route offers an affordable way to see Oman’s changing landscapes.
Cost comparison: Flights, road, and bus
Choosing the best way to travel from Abu Dhabi to Salalah depends on your priorities—speed, cost, or flexibility. The table below compares flying, driving from Abu Dhabi to Salalah by road, and taking a long-distance bus, helping you decide which option fits your travel style and budget.
| Mode | Duration | Cost | Convenience |
| Flight | ~1 h 50 m (non-stop) | From $111 one-way | Fastest and most reliable |
| Car | ~14–15 hours | $140–190 (fuel + border fees) | Flexible and scenic |
| Bus | ~21–22 hours | $30–60 | Cheapest but least convenient |
Visa, border, and entry requirements
Most UAE residents and tourists require an Oman eVisa, which can be obtained from the Royal Oman Police website. GCC nationals are exempt.
When driving, carry:
- Passport and UAE residence visa (if applicable)
- Omani car insurance (buyable at border posts)
- Vehicle ownership card
- Visa approval or visa-on-arrival receipt
At the border:
- Visa-on-arrival: 5 OMR (≈ AED 47).
- UAE exit fee: AED 35 per vehicle.
- Check border hours – some crossings close between midnight and 6 a.m.
Travel tips and recommendations
To make your trip smoother and stress-free, keep these practical tips in mind before setting off from Abu Dhabi.
- Visit during Khareef (June–September) for lush greenery, waterfalls, and temperatures of around 20 °C.
- Carry Omani rials (OMR) for small purchases and petrol.
- Dress modestly when exploring villages or mosques.
- Top attractions in Salalah:
- Wadi Darbat – waterfalls and picnic spots.
- Ayn Athum – natural springs and misty cliffs.
- Al Mughsail Beach – blowholes and white sand.
- Taqah Castle – local heritage site.
- Frankincense Land Museum – UNESCO-listed history.
- Family-friendly areas to stay: Al Saadah, City Centre, and Al Baleed – each with resorts, cafés, and beach access.
- Packing tips: light jackets, waterproof shoes, and a universal adapter.
Key takeaways
Flights from Abu Dhabi to Salalah remain the fastest and most convenient option, with fares starting from around $111 and a flight time of 1 hour 50 minutes.
Road trips offer freedom and scenic variety, covering 1,249 km in about 14–15 hours through Oman’s deserts and mountain valleys.
Bus travel is the most affordable option, but it is also the longest, taking more than 21 hours with transfers in Muscat.
Whichever you choose, plan, check your visa status, and prepare for an unforgettable journey between two of the Gulf’s most contrasting landscapes.
FAQs
Around 1 hour and 50 minutes direct.
Yes – most travellers require an Oman eVisa, obtainable online.
Yes, you can a standard 2WD handles the route easily.
By bus, though it takes over 21 hours.
The Al Ain–Buraimi checkpoint offers the most direct access to Salalah.
