The Wahiba Sands, between Muscat and Sur are comprised of spectacular, golden dunes that roll on for miles. They are home to Bedouin peoples whose traditional lifestyle is fast coming under threat. The Bedouin specialize in the rearing of camels, often for racing and continue to live a nomadic life. The Bedouin wear brightly colored clothes and their women play an active role in the society they live in. They often wear colorful peaked masks and are skillful crafts makers. People often take on the challenge of driving through the Wahiba Sands but this is very difficult and can be dangerous. In summer, the desert can be an inhospitable place.
The Jiddat al Harasis is located in central Oman and is a flatter, rockier desert than the Wahiba Sands. It is a limestone area with sandy valleys, gravel planes and some dunes. There is vegetation in this desert area due to moisture coming in off the sea though it consists of sparse shrubbery and grasses. The area is an important one for several local animal species including Oryx antelope and several types of bird. This area is also home to nomadic farmers but these are pastoral rather than livestock based.
The Rub al Khali or Empty Quarter is the largest continuous body of sand in the world. It covers 250,000 square miles across the border into Saudi Arabia and features dunes that can be up to 800 feet tall. This desert also features a surprising array of wildlife however. Lynx, foxes and wildcats prowl the area while large gazelle and ibex can also be seen. Venomous snakes, lizards and gecko also make the desert their home alongside several small rodent species and a variety of birdlife. Scientists are currently studying the area for fossilized remains of creatures who roamed the area before it dried out when it was dominated by a system of large lakes.
