Dhofar (Oman) and Empty Quarter (Saudi Arabia) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Dhofar | Empty Quarter | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Oman | Saudi Arabia |
| Type | Mountains | Desert |
| Best time | July to March | December to January |
| Suggested stay | 3–5 days | 3–7 days |
| Main gateway airport | Salalah International Airport (SLL) | Najran Airport (EAM) |
| Malaria | None | None |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Dhofar | Empty Quarter |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| August | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ 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 Dhofar if
- you are travelling in March to October
- you want birdwatching
- you hope to see ibex and birdlife
Choose Empty Quarter if
- you are travelling in December to January
- you want dune bashing, camping and stargazing
- you hope to see oryx, foxes and ostriches
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Dhofar or Empty Quarter?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Dhofar is stronger in March to October. Empty Quarter is stronger in December to January.
When is the best time for each?
Dhofar: July to March. Empty Quarter: December to January.
Sources: Experience Oman – Dhofar · Oman Observer – Wadi Darbat comes alive as Dhofar Khareef visitors return · Weather Spark – Salalah climate · Arab News – Saudi desert gateway fast becoming the next tourist hotspot (2021) · Wikipedia – 'Uruq Bani Ma'arid · Visit Saudi Booking – Empty Quarter expedition · Weather Spark – Sharurah Domestic Airport climate
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.