Leave Riyadh for a three-day crossing of the Rub' al Khali—giant dunes, dry lakebeds full of colorful stones, and remote campouts under an immense sky. This practical guide covers what to expect, how to prepare, and what the desert demands.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Dawn strips the city’s heat away, and the horizon becomes a low line of shifting gold. On this three-day Rub' al Khali expedition, travelers leave Riyadh and follow a corridor of sand and silence to Wadi Ad Dawasir and into the heart of the Empty Quarter, where dunes rise like living walls and the wind redraws them hourly.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days (approx. 72 hours)
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with low to moderate fitness; ability to hike short dune sections and tolerate long vehicle transfers is helpful
Wildlife
History
The Empty Quarter has long been traversed by Bedouin routes and caravan paths and preserves place-names and survival knowledge still used by local tribes.
Conservation
The desert crust and dry playas are ecologically fragile; avoid driving over crusted surfaces, pack out all waste, and minimize stone collecting to protect geological features.
Reserve your spot on the Undiscover Empty Quarter Trip today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Hydration plan
Carry 4–5 liters of water per person for daytime periods and sip frequently—dehydration happens faster in dry heat.
Soft-sand travel
Wear gaiters or high-top boots and let guides handle vehicle recovery; avoid walking on steep dune faces to prevent collapse.
Sun and heat management
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and light long sleeves; schedule strenuous moving for early morning or late afternoon.
Respect camp etiquette
Tents are basic and some nights lack toilets—pack personal sanitation supplies and follow guide instructions for waste disposal.
3–5L hydration system or water bottles
Ensures sufficient water during long, hot daytime stretches.
Sun hat and high-SPF sunscreen
Protects against intense solar exposure on open dunes.
summer
Sturdy sand-capable boots
Gives traction in soft sand and protects ankles during dune walks.
Insulated sleeping layer and wind jacket
Keeps you warm during cold desert nights in a basic camp setup.
winter