There is perhaps nothing more thrilling and adventurous than experiencing dune bashing in Oman and one of the best places here is Bidiyah, on the edge of the Sharqiyah Sands that is located some 233km from Muscat.
Wilayat Bidiyah is a beautiful oasis located at the entrance of Sharqiyah Sands. It is considered a starting point to explore the depths of the sand and enter into a world full of excitement and vitality, away from the bustle of the city and a change from daily routines.
These sands embrace many oases. For example, Al Raka Oasis, which is surrounded by sand dunes on three sides and forms a spectacular landscape, as well as Shahik Oasis and Al Hawiyah Oasis, the largest oasis, which contains a number of trees and is surrounded by sand dunes that form a splendid scene.
Well known for the golden sand dunes that attract tourists from Oman and outside Oman, there are some ancient forts spread over Bidiyah, including the Al Muntarib Fort.
According to the Ministry of Tourism, "No visit to Oman would be complete without seeing these spectacular seas of sand, and there are other historic sites and natural wonders in the surrounding areas of the Sharqiyah region, including the waterfalls and river of Wadi Bani Khalid. Bidiyah is the village that serves as the jumping-off point for the region’s tourism.” Bidiyah is a collection of villages at the edge of the Sharqiyah Sands. Home to Bedouin people from the desert, it is the perfect place to experience traditional camel or horse races.