Merzouga (Morocco) and Ras Al Khaimah Desert (United Arab Emirates) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Merzouga | Ras Al Khaimah Desert | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Morocco | United Arab Emirates |
| Type | Desert | Desert |
| Best time | January to March | December to February |
| Suggested stay | 1–2 days | 1–2 days |
| Main gateway airport | Moulay Ali Cherif Airport (Errachidia) (ERH) | Ras Al Khaimah International Airport (RKT) |
| Big Five | Not all five | — |
| Malaria | None | None |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Merzouga | Ras Al Khaimah 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 Merzouga if
Choose Ras Al Khaimah Desert if
- you are travelling in September to May
- you want game drives, horseback safaris and birdwatching
- you hope to see oryx and gazelles
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Merzouga or Ras Al Khaimah Desert?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Ras Al Khaimah Desert is stronger in September to May.
When is the best time for each?
Merzouga: January to March. Ras Al Khaimah Desert: December to February.
Sources: Visit Morocco - Errachidia-Midelt-Merzouga · BestDateWeather - Merzouga (ERA5 2016-2025) · Weather and Climate - Merzouga · Visit Ras Al Khaimah – Desert experiences · Visit Ras Al Khaimah – Sonara Camp Al Wadi · Weather Spark – Ras al-Khaimah climate
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.