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A group of people posing with quad bikes in the desert dunes.

Explore

Desert Gateway Towns

These settlements are your final stops for supplies and vehicle preparation before entering the sand tracks.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

Towns like Bidiyah and Al Wasil sit right at the edge of the dunes. You will pass through these areas to buy water, fuel up your 4WD, and lower your tire pressure. Tires must be deflated to 15-20 psi (1.0-1.5 bar) before leaving the tarmac.

A person wearing a traditional face mask and green headscarf in a decorated tent.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
01

Bidiyah

30 minsTire deflation point

This bustling oasis town is the primary point for fueling up and buying supplies. You must deflate your tires here before driving onto the soft sand tracks. Visit the local tire repair shops to have experts lower your tire pressure for a small tip.

A group of tourists riding camels in a desert landscape during the day.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
02

Al Wasil

30 minsDirect camp access

Al Wasil serves as another main access point to the desert. The village gateway leads directly to several popular tourist desert camps. Stick to the established, compacted tracks departing from the village so you do not get stuck in soft sand.

A green oasis with water surrounded by palm trees in a rocky gorge.
Photo: tour listing on Viator
03

Al Mintirib Fort

45 minsCultural stop

This historic fort is located near the gateway towns. It offers a quick glimpse into the past architecture and history of the region. Stop here for a brief cultural visit before you drive off into the wilderness.

Skip the Drive and Take a Tour

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Sharing Tour to Wadi Bani Khalid & Wahiba Sand Desert with Sunset8 h 5.0 (62)from $100
shared tour with sunsetfrom $100 on Viator
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