Liwa (United Arab Emirates) and White Desert (Egypt) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Liwa | White Desert | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | United Arab Emirates | Egypt |
| Type | Desert | Desert |
| Best time | December to February | January to March |
| Suggested stay | 1–2 days | 2–3 days |
| Main gateway airport | Zayed International Airport (AUH) | Cairo International Airport (CAI) |
| Malaria | None | None |
| Approx. area | — | 3,010 km² |
| Big Five | — | Not all five |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Liwa | White Desert |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| February | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| March | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| April | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| May | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| June | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| July | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| August | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| September | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| October | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| November | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| December | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
How to choose
Choose Liwa if
- you are travelling in September to May
- you want dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, quad biking and cultural visits
- you hope to see camels
Choose White Desert if
- you want hiking
- you hope to see foxes
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Liwa or White Desert?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Liwa is stronger in September to May.
When is the best time for each?
Liwa: December to February. White Desert: January to March.
Sources: Visit Abu Dhabi – Desert traditions itinerary · Wikipedia – Liwa Oasis · Abu Dhabi Culture – Liwa Oasis · Weather Spark – Al Ain climate (inland UAE reference) · Egyptian Tourism Authority - The White Desert · EEAA - White Desert Protected Area Management Plan · Wikipedia - Farafra (NOAA 1961-1990 climate normals) · Japan Meteorological Agency - Farafra climate normals
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.