Dibba Shinas ferry

Dibba Guide

Dibba Ferry Port

Found along the north-eastern coast of the United Arab Emirates, on the Arabian Peninsula that stabs into the warm waters of the Gulf of Oman, is the port town of Dibba. This small community has a maritime history stretching back to the pre-Islamic era of the 1st Century when eastern merchants would bring their exotic wares from the faraway lands of India and China to sell at the dockside markets. The port of Dibba is located on the southern edge of the town’s bay, just beside the golden sands of Sambraid Beach. The ferry terminal here sits at the entrance of a narrow pier that curves along one edge of an inlet sheltered by a sea-wall. It’s a small area that offers very little in terms of facilities save for a departure point that allows passengers to board and disembark from the docked ferries. There is however a supermarket and café a few minutes’ walk away on the street outside the port. Those driving to the port can make use of the pristine Dibba – Masafi roadway that carves through the rugged desert covering most of the region. The route passes through most of the settlements found on the country’s eastern coast and connects to the E88 motorway that snakes towards the ultra-modern metropolis of Dubai. One operator currently operates from Dibba, travelling to three different destinations along the shores of the Gulf of Oman. The National Ferries Company offers short trips north to the Emirates towns of Lima and Khasab as well as a southbound journey to Shinas across the border in Oman.

Shinas Guide

What is there to do in Shinas?

The sleepy, quiet town of Shinas doesn’t lend itself to a long stay in Oman, but for a peaceful few days amid an imposing, mountainous terrain encompassing a host of historical and religious buildings, Shinas is perfect. There is little to do in Shinas outside of the hotels and resorts, but luckily for visitors, the accommodation is excellent; luxury bars, deluxe rooms and refreshing swimming pools adorn the setting, with friendly, welcoming staff adhering to your every need. Aside from the numerous grand hotels, much of the activity resides at the port, which is the main source of revenue for the area. The ferry industry brings a large income, and the seafood is served at the restaurants, bringing prominence to the culinary scene.

How do you get around Shinas?

The town is very small so most choose to travel by foot, or ask for a transfer from one of the hotels.