New Musandam road to cut Khasab-Dibba travel time to 55 minutes; project 76% complete

The new road in Oman will stretch over a total length of 72 km and comprises three segments

  • PUBLISHED: Sun 30 Aug 2026, 6:24 PM UPDATED: Sun 30 Aug 2026, 6:26 PM

Oman on Sunday revealed the completion rate of a new road project in Musandam, which has been built about 76 per cent.

The Sultan Faisal bin Turki Road project, set to pass through a Dibba-Lima-Khasab route, is valued at 151 million Omani Riyals, according to the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology.

The road will stretch over a total length of 72 km and comprises three segments. The first segment runs from the Wilayat of Khasab to Lima area, covering a distance of 20 km.

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The second segment extends within Lima for 8km, while the third segment connects Lima to the Wilayat of Dibba over a length of 44km.

The journey between Khasab and Dibba is expected to take approximately 55 minutes, while the trip between Lima and Khasab is projected at around 20 minutes, compared to the previous travel time of approximately two and a half hours.

The new development is expected to ease traffic flow and improve connectivity across the regions of Musandam. It is also aimed at bolstering investment and development opportunities in the communities it serves.

Oman recently unveiled a 14-day tourist visa that is totally free of charge, as part of amendments to certain provisions of the executive regulations of the Foreigners' Residence Law in the Sultanate.

The decision, published in the Gulf state's official gazette on August 2, 2026, stipulates that the new visa shall be granted by the competent authorities, upon application, to nationals of designated countries.

In addition, visitors who are granted this type of visa can extend their stay by applying for any other tourist visas before the expiry of their free entry visa, subject to the applicable conditions and prescribed fees.

Tourism in Oman

Oman is one of the Gulf region's most popular travel destinations, as it enjoys a rich cultural heritage and heaven-like natural beauty, while offering visitors a chance to try the authentic Arabian hospitality.

From the peaks of the Hajar Mountains to the waterfalls in Salalah during the Khareef (monsoon) Dhofar season in summer, the Sultante attracts millions of tourists each year, whether for adventure or relaxation.

During the Khareef season, which started this year on June 21, the Governorate of Dhofar is transformed into lush and breathtaking greenery while the rest of the Gulf is witnessing the peak of summer heat. It will conclude on September 21.

As reported earlier by Khaleej Times, Salalah visitors can also enjoy several activities and attractions across the governorate. Besides beaches, waterfalls and sinkholes, this year's programme includes 125 cultural, artistic, sporting and entertainment events, according to Dhofar Municipality.