
Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 4 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing worth booking?
Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing is a 9-hour experience in Salalah, Oman, from $216 per person. It scores 65 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 4 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 65 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (4)
- Duration
- 9 hours
- From
- $216 per person
Visit the locations that have been accredited as UNESCO World Heritage locations, such as the archeological site of Ubar and the distinctive frankincense trees in Wadi Dawkha. Traveling from the City of Salalah/Taqah Hotels to the first location will take you at least one hour, and getting to each destination will take you half an hour to an hour. Our driver will transport you to the morning safari locations at 09:00, and clients can anticipate the sunset at 12:30. Dune bashing is an option for both in the Empty Quarter.
What you get
About this experience
Visit the locations that have been accredited as UNESCO World Heritage locations, such as the archeological site of Ubar and the distinctive frankincense trees in Wadi Dawkha. Traveling from the City of Salalah/Taqah Hotels to the first location will take you at least one hour, and getting to each destination will take you half an hour to an hour. Our driver will transport you to the morning safari locations at 09:00, and clients can anticipate the sunset at 12:30. Dune bashing is an option for both in the Empty Quarter.
What's included
Included
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- Entrance Fee: Ubar Site
- All Fees and Taxes
- In-vehicle air conditioning
Not included
- Gratuities, tips
- Transfer in Mirbat Hotels additional USD 45 per person
What you'll see and do
Wadi Dawkha
Pick up from the Hotel, around 1hr drive and drive to Wadi Dawkha (UNESCO World Heritage site), also known as the "Frankincense trees," which has the largest collection of naturally grown Frankincense trees in the region. Discover the history of Frankincense as well as its applications in the modern world.
30 minutes here
Visit 'Lost the City of Ubar' (UNESCO World Heritage Site), one of the ancient sites in the Dhofar region where archaeologists using remote sensing equipment discovered the city's remains in 1992. Ubar is thought to have been inhabited from approximately 2800 B.C. to approximately 300 A.D. and was an important trading center for frankincense before being buried in the rising dunes. At the site, there is a small museum displaying archaeological discoveries. The entrance fee is included.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Empty Quarter
The bleak, arid desert of Rub al Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter, stretches from the mountain's foothills to an enormous sandy plain that covers the majority of the area. The area is well-known for its archaeological sites. Sunset will be seen for the 12:30 pick up options. After the trip for minimum 1hour 30 mins drive back to the city.
120 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
Morning Desert Safari @ 09:00
Highlights:: Wadi Dawka & Frankincense trees | Ubar | Rub Al Khali 4WD Pickup included
Sunset Desert Safari @ 12:30pm
4WD Highlights:: Wadi Dawka & Frankincense trees | Ubar | Rub Al Khali Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 4 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Marhaba Dhofar
Know before you go
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Total tour duration will be 9hrs including the pick up and drop off to the hotel and including the visiting the tour locations.
- All 4WD vehicles maximum of 4 pax per vehicle due to safety regulations.
- Most of the tours involve walking over rough and inclined ground please wear comfortable steady or walking shoes.
- Dune bashing is a thrilling activity. Guests are allowed to take part in the activity at their own risk.
- Guests should wear comfortable clothing and avoid wearing expensive accessories in desert trips.
- Please note that there is limited to no signal at the camp/desert.
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 4 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
1 mentionTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Traveler reviews
4 verified traveler reviews for Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
If there is only one trip in Oman, it is this one - sunset in the desert. Get lucky with the guide. We did!
Excellent guide Adnan Safrar. Every stop on the way to the desert was great (Bedouins with camels, Frankincense trees) and we managed the program even with a 3 year old son. The sunset in the desert was amazing. Adnan knew such places where we could observe everything away from large groups of tourists, he was an excellent driver and a very attentive host.
via Tripadvisor
Exploring Rub al Kahli with Adnan
We went to visit a Frankincense Plantage, a camel farm and the biggest desert im the world, the Rub al Khali. Adnan knows a lot about his country and is happy to answer every question you have. He is one of the friendliest persons I‘ve ever met and I recommend doing this trip to everybody who visits Oman!
via Tripadvisor
Great experience
We went to see the Francincense Trees in the world heritage site Wadi Dawkah. It was very interesting to see where the Francincense comes from and to smell it on the tree. The trip to the desert Rub Al Khali was the highlight, with driving through the sand dunes and watching the sunset. It was a lot of fun.
Response from the operator: Dear guest, Greetings from Marhaba Dhofar. We're delighted you enjoyed your trip with us. Also, we appreciate you sharing your experience with us. We look forward to serving you in the near future. Best regards. Marhaba Dhofar Team
via Tripadvisor
Top Experience
Thank you very much for the unique experience and the insight into your culture! Salem you do a great job it was a pleasure to meet you!
Response from the operator: Dear guest, Greetings from Marhaba Dhofar. We are pleased you liked your time with us and thank you for recommending Salem. Also, thank you for sharing your experience. We look forward to servicing you in the near future. Best regards. Marhaba Dhofar Team
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 9 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 1
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Marhaba Dhofar, who run 7 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 57.2.
See everything Marhaba Dhofar runsWhy this scores 65
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Salalah.
How much does Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing cost?
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Prices start at $216 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Salalah usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing take?
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Plan for about 9 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Salalah is not rushed.
Is Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 65 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 4 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Salalah, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 9-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing?
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Around 1 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Salalah can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Salalah and add a light layer if any part of the 9-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Salalah within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Salalah?
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On Outty we rank every Salalah experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include East Salalah Mountain Safari, Wadi Darbat, Beach, Camels, Dunes, Private Salalah Mountain Safari, West Salalah Tour - Caribbean of Orient - Fazayah Beach with City. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Salalah?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Salalah?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing?
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Included: Private transportation; Bottled water; Entrance Fee: Ubar Site; All Fees and Taxes; and In-vehicle air conditioning. Not included: Gratuities, tips; and Transfer in Mirbat Hotels additional USD 45 per person. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 21 listed pickup locations in and around Salalah. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time.
What languages is Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing?
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Across 4 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Desert Safari in Empty Quarter with Dune Bashing?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including Morning Desert Safari @ 09:00, Sunset Desert Safari @ 12:30pm. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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