The Empty Quarter road: Oman to Saudi Arabia

The road across the Rub al Khali (Empty Quarter) gives Oman a direct land link with Saudi Arabia without passing through the UAE. It opened in late 2021 and starts near Ibri in Ad Dhahirah.

The route

Roughly 160 kilometres of the road are in Oman and several hundred kilometres in Saudi Arabia, crossing one of the largest sand deserts on earth. It also serves freight between the port of Duqm and Saudi Arabia.

Travel tips

• Services are very limited; fill up with fuel and carry water.
• Check visa and border-crossing rules for your nationality before you go.
• Avoid the hottest hours in summer.

Living near the main roads

Good road links shape property values in Muscat. R2LUX sells homes in communities where foreigners can own, close to the city's main routes; three current listings are below.