Thrill-seekers can reach new heights in Oman with world’s longest zip line over water
Travellers heading to Oman can add a thrilling experience to their itinerary. The world’s longest zip line over water has opened in Khasab, in the northern Omani exclave of Musandam.
Known for its craggy mountain surroundings and cruises on traditional dhows, the town has increased its tourism offerings by opening the 1,800metre zip line.
Organisers say the attraction is certified by Guinness World Records. The experience begins on Jebel Fitt and riders can reach speeds of up to 80kph.
It’s the first attraction to open at Oman Adventures Centre, a new development supported by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and designed to boost the country’s adventure tourism offerings. Other plans in the works for Musandam include new hiking paths and mountain biking trails.
If you’re feeling adventurous, the journey to the zipline begins at the base of Jebel Fitt, from where visitors can follow the road up to the Oman Adventures Centre.
Starting from a platform, zip line riders descend towards the coast, taking in views of Khor Qadi and the Mokhi region. The journey ends at the Atana Khasab Hotel.
The zip line will operate daily from 9am to 4pm and will also be open during holidays. Available ride slots change daily and more information is available on the Oman Adventures website.
The experience costs from 18 Omani riyals (Dh170) for a single ride, or 25 riyals for two rides.
To celebrate the opening of the attraction, Omani residents can try the zip line for 10 riyals for a limited period.
Travellers keen to check out the views from the Adventure Centre or accompany riders to the platform on Jebel Fitt can book a viewpoint ticket. This costs 6 riyals and does not include a zip line ride.
The attraction may be the world’s longest zip line over water, but it’s not the longest in the region.
Adrenalin junkies looking to for that experience need to venture to Ras Al Khaimah, about an hour’s drive from Khasab. The Jebel Jais Flight sends participants hurtling for three minutes over 2.83km, reaching speeds of up to 160kph.
For those travelling to Khasab from the UAE, the town is 80km from Ras Al Khaimah. The drive takes about an hour and 20 minutes, but the journey may take longer depending on how much traffic there is at the border crossing.
Visitors from the Emirates should carry documents such as passports and visas to cross into Oman.
Citizens from 103 countries
The zip line descends towards the coast, offering views of Khor Qadi and the Mokhi region
and those from GCC states are eligible for a visa on arrival in Oman.
Other visitors need to apply in advance for an e-visa, which can take up to four days for the authorities to process.
Travellers driving to Khasab need to make sure their car insurance policies provide coverage in the country. Some insurers can add this coverage on request, but there may be an additional fee.