Just a two-hour drive from Dubai, Musandam in Oman feels like a completely different world. Jagged limestone cliffs rise straight out of the sea, forming deep inlets and quiet coves often called the fjords of Arabia. The landscape is wild and untouched, with no buildings or roads in sight once you’re on the water. It’s one of the most scenic parts of the Gulf and also one of the best places to dive in the region. The calm waters, varied topography, and rich marine life make it ideal for both beginners and experienced divers looking for a quick weekend underwater.

The Boat, The Setup and What’s Included

The trip started with a drive to Dibba Port, just across the northern UAE/Omani border. Dibba Port is the main meeting point for all boat trips to Musandam. We met up with the team from Chloe Blue Divers at 7am on Saturday morning, along with the rest of the dive group. The boat itself is a traditional wooden dhow fitted out for group trips, with space for up to 20 guests. It’s usually a mix of divers and snorkellers, depending on the group.

Once onboard, everything was taken care of. We had a sunbed each laid out on the top deck to sleep under the stars. We brought our own pillows and duvets, while some guests brought blow-up mattresses—there was plenty of space for everyone to stretch out. The setup is comfortable, with enough room to relax between dives, and plush cushions lining the bottom deck.

All meals and drinks were provided by an onboard chef, and the dive team supplied full equipment: wetsuits, fins, masks, oxygen tanks, and BCDs. Two instructors were onboard to guide the dives and run safety briefings. The dhow set off from the port just after 8am and sailed north for about two hours to reach the first dive sites. The first two dives took place on Saturday after anchoring, with an optional night dive available for those with advanced certification. On Sunday morning, we did two more dives before sailing back to Dibba. Dolphins are commonly seen swimming alongside the boat on this stretch, especially in the early morning. The trip ended back at Dibba Port around 4pm on Sunday.

Diving, Snorkelling and What You’ll See

You don’t need to be a certified diver to join the trip. Snorkellers are welcome, and many people come just for the chance to swim in clear water and relax off-grid for 36 hours. If you’re a certified diver, you can join all four dives across the weekend—two on Saturday and two on Sunday. My husband and I are PADI Open Water certified, so we joined all four.

Underwater, visibility can vary depending on the season, but marine life is consistently impressive. We saw turtles, pufferfish, moray eels, and huge schools of reef fish. It’s even possible to see families of whale sharks in the area. Coral formations are healthy, especially around the drop-offs and rocky outcrops. Between dives, there’s time to snorkel, swim, or simply lie on deck with a coffee and take in the views. On Saturday evening, the crew set up a speedboat inflatable for a bit of fun before dinner—this was one of the highlights of the weekend.

Top Tips and Packing List

You’ll need your passport to cross the border at Dibba, and most dive operators, including Chloe Blue Divers, require a copy of your passport and visa page at least 48 hours in advance to arrange the border permit. Pack light, using a soft duffel or backpack rather than a suitcase. There’s no phone signal once you leave port, so download anything you need in advance and enjoy the chance to fully switch off. Water is provided onboard, but stay hydrated between dives and avoid alcohol, as most trips are dry and it’s not compatible with diving. If you’re a light sleeper, pack earplugs or an eye mask, as the deck is communal. Finally, speak to the instructors—they know the dive sites well and are always happy to share tips on what to look out for underwater.

With no phone signal, it’s the perfect opportunity to switch off completely. The best time to visit is from October to April, when the weather is cooler but the sea remains warm. Whether for the diving or simply the scenery, this trip offers one of the UAE’s most accessible and peaceful weekend escapes.

Diving & Snorkelling Gear (if not hiring)