Wednesday 19 / March / 2025
Sharqiyah Sands, earlier known as Wahiba Sands, extends from North and South Al Sharqiyah Governorate to Al Wusta Governorate. With diverse terrain along with different species of flora and fauna, the golden dunes of the Sharqiyah Sands desert holds a special place in the hearts of those who live in Oman or come here as tourists. It extends over an area of up to about ten thousand square kilometres.
According to Oman’s Ministry of Tourism, “The sand colour range from red to brown as far as the eye can see. It is the original homeland of the Bedouins. This area attracts many desert adventure fans, and is preferred by visitors owing to its ease of accessibility and availability of nearby services, which make it a first class tourist attraction.”
“Wilayat Badiyah 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.
"Al Hawiyah Oasis is considered a vivid example of this unique mixture, for it is embraced by the golden sands to form a peninsula of greenery, putting it on a pedestal of its own compared with other oases in the Sultanate. The sharp sandy slopes in the southern part of this oasis are one of the most beautiful sites for sand skiing. Al Aidan Oasis is so called from the shady leafy trees and the presence of a water well on this site.”
From dune bashing and camel riding to watching the sunrise and sunset, Sharqiyah Sands has many attractions. While for dune bashing there are trained guides and drivers to take you on an adventure ride, camel riding gives an experience of the Bedouin lifestyle.
