Rub Al Khali - Standing still

One of the opening sequences of Mission Impossible Death Reckoning “is a gripping horseback chase and a firearms showdown set against the serene backdrop of desert plains.

The commencement of "Mission Impossible: Death Reckoning" is nothing short of spectacular. Tom Cruise aptly described it, saying, "The desert is beautiful, and those sequences are truly epic. We analyze the terrain to uncover the story it can tell, and the desert's romantic allure shines brilliantly on screen" (excerpt taken from FilmfareME).

Now, let's unravel the mysteries of the Rub Al Khali, also known as the "Empty Quarter."

Location:

The Rub Al Khali is an expansive desert in the southeastern part of the Arabian Peninsula, covering regions in Saudia Arabia , Oman, Yemen, and the United Arab Emirates. It is infamous for its extreme aridity and harsh desert conditions, making it one of the most inhospitable places on Earth. To put its vastness into perspective, it exceeds the size of France.

Historical Significance: Historically, the Empty Quarter was a vital part of trade routes that connected the Arabian Peninsula to other regions, notably the Incense Route. Ancient traders relied on camel caravans to transport valuable commodities like incense, spices, and precious metals across this unforgiving desert. These trade routes were instrumental in the economic prosperity of the Arabian Peninsula. Many explorers documented their perilous journeys through this desert, with some losing their lives in the process. Despite the discovery of oil, this desert remains remote, empty, and arid.

Tours of the Empty Quarter: For those seeking unique experiences, tours of the Empty Quarter are available from both Oman and Abu Dhabi. It is essential to emphasize the risks of venturing here alone and we strongly recommend going through Destination Management Companies (DMCs) with trained guides. These tours offer a range of activities, including overnight desert camping, exploration of the lost city of Ubar, conquering the towering sand dune known as Tal Moreeb at a height of 300 meters, visiting the ancient forts of the Liwa desert, immersing in authentic Bedouin life at the Arabian Nights village, or partaking in adrenaline-pumping adventures such as dune bashing.

Luxury Accommodations: For discerning travelers, there are several luxurious hotels on the outskirts of the Empty Quarter:

1.???? Qasr Al Sarab by Anantara: This magnificent luxury resort is situated at the desert's edge, just 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi. It boasts 140 rooms and 53 pool villas and offers guided camel treks and desert walks to explore the Empty Quarter.

2.?Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa: Nestled in the Wathba region near Abu Dhabi, this boutique resort provides 99 guest rooms and villas with timeless architecture. It offers a serene escape not far from the Rub Al Khali, making it an excellent choice for those seeking tranquility.

3.?Tilal Liwa Hotel: This four-star hotel, featuring 111 rooms in authentic Arabian style, is located at the edge of the Empty Quarters and serves as a comfortable base for explorers looking to venture into the desert.

These luxurious accommodations provide a perfect blend of modern comfort and adventure, allowing travelers to experience the enchantment and enigma of the Rub Al Khali while enjoying top-notch amenities and guided expedition.

Our DMC division both in UAE and Oman have trusted guides for those who would like to relive the past in the desert . Contact us on [email protected] if you would like to know more `