Wahiba Sands
This vast northwestern region of Oman is also referred to as The Sharqiya Sands or Ramlat al-Wahiba by locals, and covers 4,800 square miles of mostly uninhabited desert space. The area is famed for its stunning golden dunes - just as spectacular as the Sahara's, albeit on a smaller scale.
One of the main attractions here is the presence of the centuries-old Bedu people, who specialized in raising camels for organized races across the region (held annually from October to April.) The less conservative Bedouin lifestyle here also allows women to have a more active role in society, and they are instantly recognizable with their brightly-colored costumes, detailed masks and flowing robes. The dunes can only really be explored in 4x4s, and don't expect any hotels for miles; bed down under the stars instead for a night to remember in the Omani desert.
Experiences
A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.
Camel Racing
Most of the Bedouins found here are based around the settlement of Al Hulwah, an oasis not too far away from the desert border. The tribes train camels year-round to be raced at selected events held across the desert between mid-October and April.
Camping
Permanent accommodation options in this vast desert region of Oman are few and far between; the preferred way of spending the night is to pitch up a tent under the stars. Although it’s hot all year round here during the day, temperatures can get chilly at night, meaning you’ll need that insulated sleeping bag for a comfortable night’s sleep.
Off-Roading
Although there is a road intersecting the dunes, the best way to cover the desert is by taking to the sand in a 4x4 all-terrain vehicle. It’s both a fun and - at times - exhilarating experience as the car negotiates the steep ups and downs of the dunes. Head out in your own rented vehicle or take one of the tours that depart from several camps dotted around the region.
Sand Boarding
A fun way of tackling the dunes here is to take to the sand on boards, surfing the hilly terrain as if it were waves. Day trippers often bring their own modified snowboards or use makeshift sliders to shoot down the dunes.
Oman Regions
Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below on the right.
Northern Oman
Musandam Peninsula
Central Coastal
Dhofar
Multi-Country Specialists
Oman Goes Well With
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With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
Travelogues
An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.
Magic Camps: Seeing Oman in Bedouin Style
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- Travelogues
Magic Camps from Wahiba Sands has slowly become the critic’s choice for the finest tented camp accommodation in Oman.
Remote Lands’ Dozen Dream Destinations in Asia 2016
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We’ve compiled the very best destinations in Asia – places guaranteed to pique your interest, ensnare your senses and captivate your imagination this year.
Landscapes of Oman
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- Remote Lands
Outside the walls of the more frequently-visited city of Muscat are some enticing destinations, waiting to be discovered
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