The Deserts - endless seas of sand
The fascination which Europeans feel at the sight of the dunes of the Ramlat al-Wihiba and the Rub al-Khali is certainly comparable to that of an Omani amidst lush green meadows, continuously flowing waters and lush forests.
On the border with Saudi Arabia the huge dunes of the Great Central Arabian desert penetrate from far into Omani territory. The sands cover one quarter of the Arabian Peninsula.
In contrast to the dimensions of the Rub al-Khali, the Ramlat al-Wihiba is manageable. This desert is isolated in the surrounding gravel plain and forms a well-defined, cohesive unit. With the jeep you can drive around in three days. The drive from Muscat takes only three hours.
Georg Popp
What makes this travel guide so special? This book is a product of the long-term personal friendship between the authors, Mr Georg Popp and Mr Juma Al-Maskari and their continuing fascination with the Sultanate of Oman. Combining their insights from European and Omani perspectives, they have produced a guide which is as much about culture and history as it is a practical guide for planning your itinerary.