Pin as visited
Pin as planned
Photo of Rub' al Khali
Pin Rub' al KhaliRub' al Khali
InfoPhotosVisited Planned

Rub' al Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter, is a large desert located in the southern Arabian Peninsula. It is the largest contiguous sand desert in the world, covering an area of approximately 650,000 square kilometers (250,000 square miles) and spanning parts of Saudi Arabia, Oman, Yemen, and the United Arab Emirates.

The desert is characterized by its towering sand dunes, vast expanses of barren, rocky terrain, and extreme temperatures. Summer temperatures can reach up to 50°C (122°F) during the day, while winter temperatures can drop to near freezing at night.

Despite its harsh and inhospitable environment, Rub' al Khali is home to a number of desert-adapted plants and animals, including Arabian oryx, desert foxes, sand cats, and numerous species of birds and reptiles.

Rub' al Khali has a rich cultural history, and has been inhabited by various Arab tribes for centuries. The desert has also been the site of many archaeological discoveries, including ancient rock art, pre-Islamic ruins, and even evidence of early human habitation dating back thousands of years.

Today, Rub' al Khali remains a popular destination for adventurous travelers and scientists alike, who are drawn to the desert's stunning landscapes, unique ecosystems, and rich cultural heritage.