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Old Oct 1, 2011, 4:51 pm
  #8  
tebfunk
 
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: San Diego, CA
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Posts: 209
Originally Posted by DXBPlat
Fujairah isn't worth more than a night, it's very similar to Oman. To be honest you're be better driving the extra hour to Mussandam (the northern tip of Oman to the north of Fujairah) and going on a cruise, the scenery is amazing.

Al Ain is also quiet but does have the UAE's one and only mountain (Jebel Hafeet) as a backdrop. One night enough. You can stay half way up the mountain in a rather basic hotel, good excuse to go exploring.

As an addition I would recommend staying in the desert in Oman. There are places you can stay (you can choose camping or little huts which have AC) which are amazing - massive open BBQ, views of the stars like you've never seen and try your hand at desert driving in the morning. I honestly can't remember the name of the place I did it but it was about 4h from Muscat in the Wahabi (?) sands I think. Given the amount of off roading required would take a guided tour, plus the Omanis will give you a proper cultural understanding of all the places you pass.

One other option is there is a famous turtle breeding area about 2-3h south of Muscat, worth a day trip.
I agree with all of this. The most striking part of Fujairah is the contrast with the rest of the UAE - when you are already in Oman it is less impressive, and there isn't much to do there. The drive from Muscat to Fujairah is about 3 hours if you drive straight through. There aren't many place to stop on the way in terms of sights, although the roundabouts are entertaining.

Al Ain has a couple of museums, but a day is definitely plenty. I think we spent about 4 hours and were over it.

The Musandam peninsula is one of the most beautiful places I've been in terms of the natural geography. There are boat cruises that are lovely (geared towards tourists, but still fantastic), and the snorkeling is decent.

South of Muscat is also beautiful, and if you can find a cheap flight (or are in for a lengthy drive) the area near Salahah is a great place to see. Watching the frankincense harvest is amazing.

Where are you flying in to? Your current itinerary is going to cost you quite a bit in border fees, and there are some other options. There is actually a ferry from Muscat to Khasab, and while I haven't taken it I think that would be a great option.
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