A full day on the edge of the Empty Quarter, the sand sea known in Arabic as Ar Rub' al-Khali and described by UNESCO as the greatest expanse of windblown sand on Earth. You travel in a 4x4 with a driver who works this ground, and the day is built around driving the dunes with regular stops to get out and walk.
The route runs along the margins of 'Uruq Bani Ma'arid, which covers the western part of that sand sea and became the first natural site in Saudi Arabia to be inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, in 2023. Wear closed shoes, bring sun cover, and expect a long day in the vehicle.
Day by day
Morning
Early pick-up and the drive out to the sand, where tyres are let down before the first run across the dunes.
Afternoon
Lunch in the shade, then more driving deeper along the dune line, with stops to walk on the crests and take photographs.
Late afternoon
A last stop as the light drops and the colours change, then the drive back to your accommodation.
What is included
- Pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation
- 4x4 vehicle with an experienced desert driver
- English-speaking guide
- Lunch in the desert
- Drinking water throughout the day
- Recovery equipment and first-aid kit
What is not
- Gratuities
- Personal spending
- Travel insurance
- Saudi entry visa
The places on this trip
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