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Wahiba Sands

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The Geographical Location of Wahiba Sands, the Widest Desert in Oman

What You Should Know before Travelling to Wahiba Sands

Wahiba Sands, located between the northern and southern governorates, is the widest desert in Oman. This region features spectacular sand dunes formed under the influence of eastern and western winds. Its name is derived from Bani Wahiba Tribe which have been living on the desert edge sine the long past.

This desert covers an area of 12500 Km2 and is 180 Km long and 80 Km wide.  More importantly, as you move on to the east, the dunes get denser and taller. In some parts, Arabian Sea shares border with the desert and creates an eye-catching scenery.  Without any doubt, strolling in the dunes, which offeres a spectacular view to the sea, makes an unforgettable and exciting experience.

 

Does Wahiba Sands Have Fauna and Flora?

The desert was carefully assessed in 1986 by the Royal Geographical Society. The researches showed some evidences that proved the existance of life in this land. Some experts also believe that the presence of aquifers may have led to the growth of plant and animal species in this very hot and dry region.

According to the scientific documents, this area has a rich fauna and flora and almost 16000 invertebrates live in. Besides, 200 mammal species have been recorded in this region. Above all, the seabirds, considered as the most important bird species of the region, can be seen in this desert. It is also where more than 1500 endemic plants grow.

Wahiba Sands

A Look at the Demography and Culture of People in Wahiba Sands

A population of about 3000 people live in Wahiba Sands including the Bedouin tribes that reside in an oasis near the desert border. They go through collecting dates between June and September, but their main occupation is camel breeding. They are also so skilled in camel riding competitions.

The most important Bedouine tribe of the region is Al Wahiba, after which this desert was named. The other tribes include Al-Amr, Al-Bu-Isa, Hikman, Hishm and Janaba.

The women of these tribes wear long clothes and veils and play an important role in the Bedouin life. Besides carrying out the daily activities of nomadic life, they are great drivers in desert.

People of Wahiba Sands

The Bronze Age Remains of Wahiba Sands

The archeological structures, belonging to the Bronze Age, were discovered on the edge of Wahiba Sands. Their remains can also be seen in the towns located in the west of the desert. Like the other regions of this desert in which some tribes inhabit, Wahiba Beach has resorts for fishers.

What You Will Experience in Wahiba Sands

Wahiba Sands is one of the adventurous destinations in Oman. This region is known for its high amber-colored dunes, some of which are 100 meters.

Among the most popular recreational activities, we can mention safari riding in the dune. It is noteworthy that tourists can choose their desired vhicle and go on safari as they wish. Desert touring by 4WD, camel riding and sand boarding are the common recreations in this region. In the following, we discuss such activities.

The Experience of Overnight under the Stary Sky of Wahiba Sands

People put up temporary resorts on the edge and central part of Wahiba Sands during the year. These resorts, classified from traditional to modern, provides deserters with nomadic or luxurious facilities. Some of the monuments, located on the edge of the desert, have been converted to hotels. In general, each resort offers the unforgettable experience of watching the stary sky and the sands shining in the sun.

The best way to touch the lifestyle of the Bedouin is residing in their tent. As a result, some tribes welcome the tourists, serve them with coffe and tea and provide the condition for them to rest for a few hours.

Camping in the dunes is another choice to reside in this region. In this method, you enjoy the stary sky of the desert and its peacefull silence. You can also record the beauties of the desert’s sky and make a memorable night.

Wahiba sands

Touring the Dunes by Off-road Vehicles in Wahiba Sands

If you are interested in adventurous activities, you will enjoy riding off-road vehicles for sure. In this desert, skilled off-road drivers are engaged in driving. So, you can trust them and experience an exciting dune touring by 4WD Vehicles.

Sand Boarding

Sand Boarding is a common hobby for all age groups. In this desert, locals offer all sand boarding facilities to tourist. Moreover, the best and most secure trails have been marked for this activity.

Wahiba sands

Camel Riding

Without any doubt, camel riding will make one of the best moments of your life. You can ride camel in the dune, enjoy the surrounding scenery and visit the locals who accompany you along the way.

Wahiba sands

Travelling to Wadi Ash Shab, the Experience of Strolling in the Sand Sea

On your trip to Oman, don’t miss visiting the deserts. This region, featuring tall sand dunes, is one of the best destinations for the interested ones to desert. Moreover, the adventurers can travel to this area and make a memorable experience for themselves. Among the pleasures of this region, we can mention staying overnight under the stary sky of the desert.

1001 Nights Tours has included this region in the form of various tours. If you would like to have a different experience of desert touring, click here. You can also click here to enrich your knowledge about the deserts of Oman.

 

Stay Position

Country: OMAN
City: Wahiba Sands