Empty Quarter Trips in Saudi Arabia
Desert tourism has become a significant demand for visitors to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia due to the unique and fascinating experience it offers, providing interesting and exciting insights into the culture and identity of Arab peoples and reflecting their customs and traditions. When talking about desert tourism in Saudi Arabia, one must mention the Rub' al Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter.
What is the Rub' al Khali?
Al Rub' al Khali is one of the largest deserts in the world, covering an area of 650,000 square kilometres. It is located in four Arab countries: Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Yemen. The majority of Rub al Khali is situated in Saudi Arabia, primarily covering the Eastern Province as well as parts of the Najran and Riyadh provinces. The Saudi Arabian portion of the Rub' al Khali stretches over an area of 430,000 square kilometres.
Why is it called the Empty Quarter?
The desert is named after the vast space it occupies on the Arabian Peninsula, covering approximately a quarter of the total area of the region.
Climate of Al Rub' al Khali
The climate of the Rub al Khali desert is extremely arid. Temperatures rise significantly in the summer, reaching up to 50 degrees Celsius, and drop below freezing at night and during the winter.
The shifting sands of Al Rub' al Khali
The Rub' al Khali is characterized by numerous sand dunes formed by strong winds. The sand dunes vary between fixed and shifting, some taking a crescent shape, some forming dome-like structures, and others appearing as longitudinal ridges known as "ergs". The sand has a soft texture and a golden colour, reflecting the sunlight.
Empty quarter tours
The Rub' al Khali is one of the most important tourist attractions visited by tourists and locals alike, aiming to explore the features of the desert. There are various recreational activities you can enjoy in the desert, including:
1. Safari trips
The Rub' al Khali offers numerous sand dunes where you can enjoy safaris and off-road driving through the dunes.
2. Camping
While camping in Al Rub' al Khali, you can experience desert life and learn about the customs and traditions of Saudi Arabian tribes.
3. Sandboarding
The sight of towering sand dunes might inspire you to try sandboarding using wooden boards, which is one of the most popular activities in the desert.
4. Dune bashing
You can enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of the desert and experience an adrenaline-filled adventure by driving at different speeds over the sand dunes in 4x4 vehicles.
5. Quad biking
Explore the sand dunes on quad bikes, manoeuvring through the vast desert.
6. Camel and horse riding
Don't miss the opportunity to ride camels and horses during your safari trips in the Rub' al Khali.
