A Journey Through the Sands of Oman: An Adventure of a Lifetime
My name is Jamila, and I was born and raised in the UAE. From a young age, my family instilled in me a love for the outdoors, taking me on annual camping trips to Oman. These trips, which spanned thousands of kilometers and took place during the cooler winter months, laid the foundation for my passion in off-roading and overlanding. Through these adventures, I developed an intimate connection with the desert, the mountains, and the people of Oman, which has only deepened over the years.
What draws me to Oman time and time again is its proximity to the UAE and the easy accessibility it offers, yet it feels worlds apart in terms of its natural beauty. The warm hospitality of the Omanis is unmatched. Whether I’m surrounded by the serene blue waters of the beaches, cooling off in the refreshing mountain wadis, or venturing deep into the desert, Oman provides me with an unending supply of awe-inspiring landscapes. The beauty of Oman is not just in its nature, but in the people who call it home. They’ve welcomed me with open arms, sharing their stories, their food, and their traditions, adding a personal touch to every trip.
One of my favorite places in Oman is hard to pinpoint. The country has so many diverse offerings, and each one has its own allure. In the summer, I find solace in the coolness of the wadis, where the turquoise waters offer a respite from the heat. Currently, my focus is on crossing the Empty Quarter, from Ibri to Salalah. The shifting sands, the sabkhas, and the vast, untouched landscape offer a unique kind of solitude, and the silence is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. The desert changes its character constantly, which only makes the adventure even more thrilling.
What makes Oman’s nature stand out to me is its untouched, raw beauty. It is a place where I still feel like an adventurer—where I can get lost in the wilderness and yet always feel safe. The remote deserts and mountains hold a special charm because they are still wild, not overrun by tourists or infrastructure. This purity is something I haven’t found elsewhere in my travels.
During my visits, I’ve had the privilege of participating in local activities, like canyoning in the wadis. These activities not only provide excitement but also help me stay safe while exploring these remote regions. My passion for off-roading is matched only by my respect for the land and the people who live on it. Camping in Oman’s deserts is something that has become close to my heart. The experience of being alone, surrounded by nothing but sand and sky, yet feeling completely safe is something that is hard to put into words. There’s always a sense of peace and serenity, knowing that the Omani people are nearby, ready to offer help if needed. The sense of community and care, even in the most remote areas, adds to the magic of camping in the desert.
One of the most memorable experiences I’ve had in Oman involved meeting a group of locals who took me in and shared a meal with me. The hospitality was overwhelming, and it felt as if they knew I was coming. They offered me dates, coffee, and an entire meal without expecting anything in return. These encounters have cemented my love for Oman and its people, making each visit even more special.
When it comes to food, Omani cuisine never fails to impress. The Omani helwa, a sweet treat, is a must-try. I can never visit Oman without indulging in this delicious dessert. I also make it a point to enjoy the Omani Qabooli rice dish, which is a hearty and flavorful part of the local food culture.
One of the highlights of my adventures has been camping in the Empty Quarter for an entire week. The vastness of the desert is both humbling and exhilarating. The shifting colors of the sand, the occasional sabkhas, and the eerie stillness of the environment create an atmosphere that is both tranquil and awe-inspiring. The quiet in the desert is unlike any other; it’s as if the world has paused, leaving only you and the natural wonders around you.
If I were to recommend Oman as a travel destination, I would first mention the Empty Quarter, but with caution. It’s a place for those with experience and the right equipment. If you’re unfamiliar with desert travel, I would suggest starting with the wadis. These hidden oases, with their crystal-clear waters, offer a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Oman’s wadis are places of beauty and tranquility, perfect for those seeking adventure and relaxation.
My love for adventure began in childhood, during family camping trips. As I grew older, my desire to explore deepened, and I found myself venturing out into the desert on my own, learning to navigate its challenges. My passion for off-roading only intensified as I gained more confidence, making every new trip an opportunity to push myself further. My family, especially my father, who was a race car driver, helped me develop the skills I needed to embrace adventure. As I gained experience, I became more self-reliant and capable of taking on new challenges.
For any aspiring camper, I believe the most important skills are preparation and respect for the environment. Carrying the essentials—like food, water, and tools—is crucial. But beyond that, leaving no trace and ensuring that you leave the land as you found it is vital. I always prepare myself with a GPS, offline maps, and a clear plan for safety in case things go wrong. The desert, in particular, is unpredictable, and being prepared for any situation is the key to a safe and enjoyable experience.
I don’t plan my trips down to the finest detail; much of it is spontaneous. I enjoy the thrill of uncertainty, of setting off into the unknown and seeing where the journey takes me. That’s how I approach life too—sometimes, not having a rigid plan is the best plan. But, of course, preparation is still essential. Before every adventure, I ensure my car is in perfect condition, check my gear, and inform someone about my plans, just in case.
Over the years, I’ve met fellow travelers from all over the world, and those encounters have added a special layer to my adventures. One of the most unusual things about my trips to the Empty Quarter is meeting people from countries like Italy, Germany, France, and Switzerland, all of us in the middle of the desert, far from civilization, yet united by our shared love for exploration.
While I’ve been fortunate to avoid major challenges, the desert does pose its risks, such as water shortages or sandstorms. To mitigate these risks, I always carry extra water, and I’m cautious with my consumption. Sandstorms, though rare, are a challenge, and when they occur, I ensure my vehicle is prepared with sand goggles and scarves to protect myself. In extreme conditions, I stop and wait it out, knowing that patience is key to survival.
As I look ahead, my dream is to explore even more remote locations, particularly in Oman. I hope to travel with my dogs in the future, as I believe they would love the adventures just as much as I do. Beyond Oman, I dream of taking my vehicle across borders, exploring countries like Kazakhstan and Egypt, seeking new landscapes, and meeting new people along the way.
Balancing my daily life with my passion for adventure isn’t always easy, but I make it work. I use every free minute I have to escape the hustle and bustle, whether it’s during weekends, holidays, or even after work. The time spent outdoors rejuvenates me and gives me the energy I need to face the demands of everyday life.
To all the women out there who aspire to enter the world of cars and adventure, I would say: it’s all about confidence. Don’t let anyone tell you what you can or can’t do. Stepping out of the norm, embracing the outdoors, and learning from every experience will help you grow stronger and more self-reliant. For me, it was always about enjoying my own company, trusting my instincts, and stepping into the unknown with confidence.
To OmanSpire and its audience, I don’t have a grand, inspiring message. What I can say is this: life is about being open to new experiences, about stepping off the beaten path and seeing where it takes you. Sometimes, not having a plan is the best plan. And in the vast, beautiful deserts of Oman, I’ve learned that being in the moment and embracing the journey is all that really matters.
