The Sharqiya Sands are a sand sea in eastern Oman covering about 12,500 km² and running some 180 km north to south. Around 200 animal species and 150 native plant species have been recorded there.
- Country
- Oman
- Type
- Desert
- Approx. area
- 12,500 km²
- Best time
- December to February
- Suggested stay
- 1–2 days
- Main gateway airport
- Muscat International Airport (MCT)
- Malaria
- None
Why go to Sharqiya Sands
- Overnight stays in camps among the dunes
- Northern dunes rising to about 100 m
- Encounters with Bedouin life and customs
- Camel and horse races at Bidiyah
- Clear skies for stargazing
Best time to visit Sharqiya Sands
Based on average weather and wildlife seasons, the best period to visit Sharqiya Sands is December to February.
Best period for dune camping; nights are noticeably cooler.
Highs exceed 40°C; daytime activity in the dunes is not advisable.
Bedouin families gather at Al Huyawah oasis on the desert edge for the date harvest.
| Month | Temp (°C) | Rain | Experience | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 14–26 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | peak season |
| February | 16–28 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| March | 19–32 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| April | 24–37 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| May | 28–42 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| June | 29–43 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| July | 28–42 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| August | 27–40 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| September | 24–39 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | very quiet |
| October | 22–36 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | moderate |
| November | 18–31 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | busy |
| December | 15–28 | mostly dry | ★★★★★ | peak season |
What you can see
Wildlife you may see in Sharqiya Sands includes camels, foxes and birdlife.
Things to do
- dune bashing
- camel rides
- sandboarding
- quad biking
- hot-air balloon flights
- camping
- stargazing
- cultural visits
Getting there
The edge of the sands is about three hours by road from Muscat via Ibra to Al Mintirib or Bidiyah. Driving into the dunes needs a 4x4, and many camps offer pick-up from the desert edge.
Trips to Sharqiya Sands
No trips are listed for this destination yet. Send a request and we will check with providers.
Plan by travel style
- Sharqiya Sands for families
- Sharqiya Sands for a honeymoon
- Sharqiya Sands for photographers
- Sharqiya Sands for a first safari
- Sharqiya Sands on a budget
- Sharqiya Sands for luxury travel
Compare with
- Sharqiya Sands vs Dhofar
- Sharqiya Sands vs Ras Al Jinz
- Sharqiya Sands vs Liwa
- Sharqiya Sands vs Ras Al Khaimah Desert
- Sharqiya Sands vs Khor Al Adaid
- Sharqiya Sands vs Empty Quarter
Travelling to Sharqiya Sands from
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Sharqiya Sands?
Generally December to February. Best period for dune camping; nights are noticeably cooler.
How many days do I need in Sharqiya Sands?
Most visitors spend 1 to 2 days there, not counting travel days.
How do I get to Sharqiya Sands?
The edge of the sands is about three hours by road from Muscat via Ibra to Al Mintirib or Bidiyah. Driving into the dunes needs a 4x4, and many camps offer pick-up from the desert edge.
Sources: Experience Oman – A'Sharqiyah Sands · Wikipedia – Wahiba Sands · oman.de – Wahiba Sands · Weather Spark – Badiyah (Bidiyah) climate
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.