UAE visa run: How to renew your visit visa by driving to Hatta

Hatta, which is a small exclave of the Emirate of Dubai, is located in the Hajar Mountains on the border with Oman.

It is about 130 kilometres from Dubai and 220 kilometres from Abu Dhabi. Hatta, which is a popular tourist destination, has also become a preferred option for visa renewals for many expats living in the UAE.

Here is a quick guide on how to renew your UAE visit visa by driving to Hatta.

Renew UAE visit visa by driving to Hatta

Visit visa holders can exit the UAE by going to Hatta. However, they must apply for an Oman visa prior to their travel, which takes about 24 hours for processing. Travellers must also note that all transactions are via credit or debit card only at the border.

For a seamless visa process, it will be easier to travel to Oman by downloading the Dubai Smart Travel app from App Store for iOS users or Play Store for Android users.

How to use Dubai Smart Travel:

1. Fill out your mobile number and email address. Create a new password.
2. A six-digit one-time password (OTP) will be sent to your registered mobile number.
3. Choose the option for ‘traveller’. Enter your details – this includes First Name, Last Name, Nationality and Passport number. (Note: If you are a truck driver, fill out the details required accordingly).
4. Once registered, you will be directed to the official Dubai Smart Travel page on the app, where you will have to choose from ‘Hatta’ or ‘Sea’. Choose Hatta.
5. Next, select the voucher type and click on Exit > Single/Group > Use existing details/Buy for a different traveller
6. A voucher will then be created for you and will cost about AED35.9. Pay via card.

Next, drive to the Dubai exit at the Hatta border, and present your passport for the UAE exit stamp. You can then immediately apply for a new UAE visit visa.

Once you have received the exit stamp, visit visa holders can head to the Oman arrival gates, where your vehicle must be insured by Oman. If your vehicle does not have an insurance, you can obtain it from the kiosk at the gate for AED105, which is valid for five days. This is also the most inexpensive option available for insurance.

You can enter Oman after clearing the customs check, and wait for your new UAE visit visa.

You will receive your new UAE visa within 1-4 hours, after which you can proceed to the Oman exit gate.

Present your passport once again for the Oman exit stamp and go to the UAE arrivals lounge, where the immigration counter will stamp for entry.

You can the proceed to the UAE entry gate, for customs clearance and drive back to your destination.