Travel agents have reported a surge in demand for the bus service facilitating visa changes for those travelling between the UAE and Oman. Due to the increased demand, the earliest available ticket is now set for a week later.
Al Jazeera Travels’ Visa Incharge, Shaikh Abdulla, mentioned in a Khaleej Times report that their phone lines have been busy with inquiries.
“Every day we receive many phone calls for visa change, with most preferring the bus route. It’s cheaper and keeps passengers occupied during the trip,” said Abdulla.
He further emphasized the need to book at least nine days in advance to avoid inconveniences.
Al Khanjari Transport in Deira is currently the sole road service provider for this route. A call to their office by Khaleej Times confirmed that their next available slot is on a night bus slated for August 29.
“Our buses are fully booked until August 28. However, seats on the August 29 bus are rapidly filling up,” the operator mentioned.
The firm operates three daily round trips between Dubai and Muscat at 9 am, 3 pm, and 9 pm. Each ticket is priced at Dh100.
A noticeable number of people were seen in queues at Al Khanjari Transport’s ticket counter, but many left disappointed, failing to secure their desired travel dates.
Among those affected was Abdul Hameed, who had intended to change his visa for a job interview round.
“My visa expires on August 27, and I wanted to travel on the 26th. Now, I’ll have to fly out, costing me an extra Dh500,” lamented Hameed.
Similarly, Ramesh Muliyakkal, a businessman from Oman, expressed his frustration.
“I’ve always managed to get a bus ticket just two days before my scheduled trip to Dubai. Now, with the seat shortages, I have no choice but to fly,” stated Muliyakkal, who owns a perfume store in Oman.