Rub Al Khali Desert Safari: Sunset, Sand Bashing & Ubar Tour

Summary

Salalah 4x4 Adventure: Frankincense Valley, Ubar Ruins & Camel Encounters

You’ll ride deep into Oman’s Empty Quarter by 4x4, walk among ancient frankincense trees at Wadi Dawkah, spot black camels near Thumrait, explore mysterious Ubar ruins with a local guide, and catch an unforgettable sunset after wild sand bashing on towering dunes.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me was the dry, warm air as we left Salalah behind in a sturdy 4x4. Our guide, Khalid, kept up a steady stream of stories as we rolled past scrubby hills and into the open nothingness of the Rub Al Khali—the Empty Quarter. It’s hard to describe just how huge this place feels. The sky stretches forever, and the sand seems to swallow up every sound except for the crunch of tires and the occasional whistle of wind sneaking through a cracked window.

We made our first stop at Wadi Dawkah. I’d read about frankincense before, but seeing those gnarled trees in person—sprawled across five square kilometers—was something else. The smell is sharp and almost peppery if you get close enough to the bark. Khalid explained how this valley is protected by UNESCO; apparently, these trees have been tapped for resin since ancient times. There’s even a small sign with faded writing showing where traders once gathered their haul.

A little further on, near Thumrait, we slowed down for a herd of black camels crossing the road. They’re not your average tourist photo-op; these dromedaries are bred for endurance and were once used to haul frankincense across endless dunes. The camel herder gave us a quick nod—he seemed amused by our excitement—and then waved us on as his animals shuffled off toward a patch of thorny bushes.

The next highlight was Shisr and the ruins of Ubar—sometimes called Atlantis of the Sands. There’s not much left above ground now except some weathered stone pillars poking out from the dust, but standing there you can picture caravans loaded with incense stopping for water centuries ago. Khalid pointed out an old well rimmed with salt stains; he said it’s been here longer than anyone can remember.

Late afternoon is when things really start to feel surreal. We drove deeper into the Rub Al Khali itself—the sand here glows gold and orange as the sun drops lower. If you’re up for it (and I was), there’s sand bashing: our driver grinned like a kid as he powered up steep dunes and let us slide down again in bursts of laughter and nervous shouts. You’ll probably find sand in your shoes for days after.

We parked on top of one last dune just before sunset. It gets quiet all at once—the kind where you can hear your own heartbeat—and we sipped sweet tea while watching shadows stretch across endless waves of sand. No crowds, no noise, just that slow burn of daylight fading over Oman’s Empty Quarter.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Desert Safari and Heritage Sites

• Visit Wadi Dawkah Frankincense Trees
• See Black Camels near Thumrait
• Explore Wubar Archaeological Site
• Experience Empty Quarter Sand Dunes

Top questions

Is sand bashing safe for kids or older travelers?

Our drivers are experienced with desert terrain and adjust their driving based on comfort levels—just let us know your preference! Kids love it but we recommend checking with us if you have any concerns.

Do I need to bring anything special?

No special gear needed—just comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting sandy, sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a light scarf for wind or sun protection.

Are snacks or drinks provided during the tour?

Yes! We provide bottled water, tea or coffee (usually served at sunset), plus some light snacks along the way so you won’t go hungry or thirsty out there.

Is entrance to Ubar included?

The entrance fee to Ubar (3 OMR per person) isn’t included in the tour price—you’ll pay that directly at the site if you wish to enter.

What’s included

Your trip includes bottled water to keep you cool in the heat, fresh snacks for energy along the way, plus coffee or tea served right out in the dunes at sunset. All transport is by comfortable 4x4 vehicle driven by experienced guides who know these sands inside out.