In late 2025 I ventured into the famous Rub’ al Khali desert under the lead of my experienced guide Alawi. Also known as the Empty Quarter, the Rub’ al Khali is the biggest sand desert in the world and had been a blank spot on all maps of the Arabian Peninsula until the mid-20th century. We stayed one week between its massive, star-shaped dunes and during the journey we trekked into the sands twice with our backpacks filled with water, some basic food and tents. After walking for hours, we then climbed up the sandy formations, set up our camp and shared stories at the fire in complete isolation. I tried my best to capture the enormous beauty and the humbling atmosphere of the Rub’ al Khali, but I think I might not have succeeded.
Great thanks to Alawi for sharing his knowledge of the desert and keeping an eye on my water consumption!
The Rub’ al Khali
The Rub’ al Khali – Alawi
The Rub’ al Khali
The Rub’ al Khali – Alawi and myself