Wahiba Sands

Wahiba Sands, also known as the Sharqiya Sands, is a large area of sand dunes and desert in eastern Oman covering on the order of 12,500 square kilometres. The landscape is characterised by rolling and steep sand dunes with strong seasonal temperature contrasts.

The sands form an extensive erg with dune ridges often reaching tens of metres and locally up to about 100 metres in height; the area supports traditional Bedouin communities and seasonal camel grazing. It is a popular destination for dune driving, guided desert camps and cultural visits to Bedouin settlements.

The dune field has been inhabited and used by local tribes for generations; in recent decades it has also become a focal area for adventure tourism and guided cultural experiences. Visitor infrastructure is concentrated at the desert-edge settlements and organized camps.

Wahiba Sands lies in eastern Oman in the Ash Sharqiyah region, roughly two hundred kilometres southeast of Muscat, stretching inland from the coastal plain into the interior desert.

• Dune heights: Dune heights commonly reach up to about 100 metres in places, creating extensive dune seas interspersed with flat interdunal depressions.
• Best time and activities: Best visited in the cooler months (roughly October to April) when temperatures are milder; common activities include 4x4 dune driving, camel treks and overnight desert camps run by local Bedouin operators.