Liwa (United Arab Emirates) and Ras Al Jinz (Oman) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Liwa | Ras Al Jinz | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | United Arab Emirates | Oman |
| Type | Desert | Coast |
| Best time | December to February | June to September |
| Suggested stay | 1–2 days | 1 days |
| Main gateway airport | Zayed International Airport (AUH) | Muscat International Airport (MCT) |
| Malaria | None | None |
| Approx. area | — | 120 km² |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Liwa | Ras Al Jinz |
|---|---|---|
| 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 November to March
- you want dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, quad biking and camping
- you hope to see camels
Choose Ras Al Jinz if
- you are travelling in May to October
- you want turtle watching
- you hope to see sea turtles and birdlife
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Liwa or Ras Al Jinz?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Liwa is stronger in November to March. Ras Al Jinz is stronger in May to October.
When is the best time for each?
Liwa: December to February. Ras Al Jinz: June to September.
Sources: Visit Abu Dhabi – Desert traditions itinerary · Wikipedia – Liwa Oasis · Abu Dhabi Culture – Liwa Oasis · Weather Spark – Al Ain climate (inland UAE reference) · Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve (official) · Omran – Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve · Oman Observer – The birthing phenomenon in Ras al Jinz · Weather Spark – Sur climate
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.