Exploring the Rub al Khali: A Full-Day Sunset Safari Into Arabia’s Empty Quarter
Journey nearly 400 km from Salalah on a private 4WD tour into the Rub al Khali, the world’s largest sand desert. Experience historic frankincense landscapes, the lost city of Ubar, and a breathtaking desert sunset far from the crowds.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear layered clothing
Temperatures swing sharply from hot afternoons to cool evenings; bring a light jacket for sunset.
Stay hydrated
Carry sufficient water and drink regularly to avoid dehydration in the dry desert environment.
Secure footwear
Choose sturdy shoes with good traction to manage soft sand and uneven terrain during dune climbs.
Protect against sun exposure
Use sunblock and sunglasses to shield yourself from intense desert sunlight during daytime drives.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Wadi Doka frankincense forest en route—an ancient scented grove largely untouched by tourism
- •Less-visited small Bedouin settlements near Thumrait offering authentic cultural glimpses
Wildlife
- •Desert foxes that emerge near dusk
- •Migratory desert birds overhead
Conservation Note
The tour operates with sensitivity to fragile desert ecosystems, promoting no-trace principles and respecting protected areas within the Empty Quarter.
The frankincense trade routes that passed through Dhofar powered ancient economies and shaped Arabian culture for millennia.
Photographer's Notes
- • Top of the highest desert dunes
- • Frankincense forests near Wadi Doka
- • Ruins of the lost city of Ubar
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Support and grip are necessary for walking on shifting sands and climbing dunes.
SunglassesEssential
Protect your eyes from bright desert sunlight and glare during daytime sections.
Light jacket or fleeceEssential
Essential for cooler desert temperatures at sunset and in the evening.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Hydration is critical; refillable bottles help reduce waste during the long journey.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what is the distance covered?
The full-day private 4WD tour lasts approximately 7 to 9 hours, covering around 400 kilometers round-trip from Salalah to the heart of the Rub al Khali.
Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour is not recommended for infants, pregnant travelers, or those with spinal or heart conditions due to the desert terrain and extended travel time.
What should I wear for the safari?
Light, breathable layers with sun protection during the day and a warm jacket for cooler evenings are advised, along with sturdy closed-toe shoes.
Will food and drinks be provided on the tour?
Yes, the tour includes bottled water, snacks, and traditional coffee and tea during stops.
Are there bathroom facilities available en route?
Facilities are limited; some stops like Thumrait have basic amenities, but much of the tour occurs in remote desert areas.
Is it possible to take photographs during the sunset?
Absolutely. The tour’s timing is designed to provide ample opportunity to capture the dramatic desert sunset from high dunes.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7–9 hours
Location
Salalah, null
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Participants should be in moderate physical shape to handle dune walks and desert conditions.
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