What you need to know before heading to Bidiyah sands

In this article you can find everything you need to know before heading to bidiyah sands including the safety procedures like how to check the four-wheel drive system, tires and air pressure, braking system, fuel levels and engine temperature. as well as, vehicle tracking system, tourist facilities and services. you can also find the cultural and heritage activities.

The way to reach Bidiyah sands

Bidiyah is located in the Eastern region, about 154 km from the Sahwa Roundabout in Muscat. Visitors start their journey from the Sahwa Roundabout heading towards the main road leading to the interior regions. After covering 36 km, they will arrive at Bidbid, at the intersection of Sur-Nizwa road. From there, they take the road heading east across a bridge to the left, continuing through the governorates of Ibra and Al-Qabil until reaching Bidiyah. Upon arrival, visitors will need to travel along sandy roads to reach the campsites or designated camping areas.

Vehicle safety procedures before heading to the sands of Bidiyah:

When planning a trip to Bidiyah sands, it is crucial to ensure that your vehicle is fully prepared to handle the challenging conditions. The roads leading to the area require special preparations to ensure a safe journey. Here are the key procedures to follow before taking off:

• Check the Four-Wheel (4X4) Drive System:
  The four-wheel-drive system is one of the essential elements to ensure your vehicle is fit for the journey. The desert roads and rugged mountains demand the vehicle’s ability to handle the sandy terrain. The activation of the four-wheel-drive system varies depending on the vehicle type, so it is recommended to check the owner’s manual to ensure the most suitable method. For more information on how to use the four-wheel-drive feature, you can watch this video:

If you don’t have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, consider renting one from the following rental offices:

• Abdullah Maqbil Car Rental (71713943),
• Al-Quruni Car Rental (94234564),
• Middle East Luxury Car Rentals (97810011),
• Drive Arabia Car Rental (93243364)

• Check Tires and Air Pressure:

It is Important to check your tires before starting the trip. Look for any tears or cracks in the tires. Additionally, it is advisable to slightly reduce tire pressure compared to the usual level. Driving on sand puts additional pressure on the tires, and lower pressure allows the tires to adapt to the soft sand. It is necessary to reduce the tires air pressure between 18-22 psi, and this service is offered for free at fuel stations in the area. Ensure that the tire pressure is not too high as well, as it could cause the tires to sink into the sand. Also, don’t forget to check the spare tire to ensure it’s in good condition and ready for use in case of an emergency.

• Check the Braking System:

Given the rough nature of the road to Bidiyah sands, it is vital to ensure the braking system is in good condition. To check, press the brake pedal while the engine is running and ensure there are no abnormal sounds or any unusual ease in the pedal’s travel. Also, check the brake fluid level and look for any leaks. To understand the checking process better, you can watch this video: https://youtu.be/WzXjTrMu3lg?si=LT_V3tJ3G4W9u-zi

• Check Fuel Levels and Fuel Reserves:

In remote areas like Bidiyah sands, fuel stations may be scarce or far apart. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that your fuel tank is full before leaving. It is recommended to carry extra fuel or plan to identify fuel stations along the way.

• Check Fluids and Engine Temperature:

It is important to check the vehicle’s fluid levels before the trip. Check the coolant level in the radiator, ensuring it is clean and at optimal levels. The high temperatures in desert areas can cause the engine to overheat quickly. The radiator is usually located in front of the vehicle next to the engine, and you can check the coolant level by opening the car’s bonnet. If the fluid is at or below the minimum level, add the appropriate coolant, but ensure it does not exceed the maximum level. Additionally, make sure the temperature gauge is working properly. If you notice any unusual rise in temperature, stop immediately to check the engine’s condition.

Vehicle Tracking System (GPS):

• Know Your Location:
  In such desert journeys, it is essential to have a tracking device to avoid any emergencies. The Garmin GPS device is one of the most popular tracking systems on the market. It is available in Oman at Sharaf DG stores or through the official website: GARMIN® Oman – Official Authorized Distributor.
  To ensure proper use of the device, you can watch an instructional video here: Video Link.

If the cost of the device is a concern, there are alternative apps that can function as tracking systems, such as:

• Google Maps: Google Maps
• HERE WeGo: HERE WeGo
• Inform Someone About Your Location:
  It is very important that someone knows your location during your trip, so they can track your location if something unusual occurs. There are several vehicle tracking service providers in Oman, and one of the well-known companies is “Ayun for Engineering Solutions,” specializing in vehicle tracking systems. For more information, visit: iVMS GPS Tracking in Oman | تتبع المركبات.

Tourist facilities and services at the sands of Bidiyah:

Despite being a desert area, the tourist facilities in Bidiyah ensure that visitors have everything they need to enjoy a comfortable stay. Here are the main facilities and services available:

Hotels and Resorts:
The sands of Bidiyah is home to several luxury hotels and resorts that offer comfort and elegance amidst the unique desert environment. Some of the top options include:

1. “Samaa Al-Wasil Desert Camp” (91126369), a luxurious resort near Bidiyah offering an extraordinary desert experience.
2. “Bubbles Domes Private Camp” (9290 2322), known for its modern design and is perfect for visitors seeking a blend of modernity and tradition. It offers various services like desert tours.
3. “Desert Nights Camp” (72681689), which stands out with its traditional Omani-inspired design.
4. “Desert Domes Bidiyah” (79260077), a popular option for those seeking privacy and comfort.

Events and Recreational Activities:

1. Desert Adventure Festival:
   This annual event, organized by the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, offers various activities such as car race, air balloon rides, paragliding, camel rides, camping and adventure equipment exhibitions, sand skiing, and folk-dance performances. The festival typically runs from late January to early February. For more precise timings, it is advisable to visit the Ministry’s website: Ministry of Heritage and Tourism.
2. Camel and Horse Races:
   Regular camel and horse races take place at the Al-Zamat racecourse near Bidiyah Public Park every week. These races are filled with excitement and are part of Oman’s heritage. For updates, visit the local website: bediyah.com/?=&culture=ar.
3. 4×4 Car and Sandbike Races:
   Bidiyah is renowned for organizing sand races where participants compete to navigate the dunes and rough desert terrain with 4×4 vehicles and sand bikes. More details can be found on this Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/bidiyya_racing?igsh=enU3dWtjZTExbjhv.
4. Hot Air Balloon Ride:
   This experience offers a panoramic view of the desert landscape. You can contact them at (71551051) or via Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/royalballoonoman?igsh=MWFpM2Q2NGpjcjdmeg==  .
5. Camping:
   Camping at the Sands of Bidiyah is a unique experience, offering visitors the chance to enjoy the beauty of the Omani desert amidst the golden sand dunes. The area has dedicated campsites with excellent services to ensure a comfortable experience.

Cultural and Heritage Activities:

In addition to recreational activities, visitors to Bidiyah can explore several cultural sites reflecting Oman’s heritage. Among these, the nearby Bahla Fort, one of the oldest forts in Oman and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is worth a visit. Additionally, the Bidiyah Souq offers traditional Omani crafts such as handwoven carpets and handmade jewelry. Another nearby attraction is Wadi Bani Khalid, located around 30 km from Bidiyah, known for its natural springs and stunning lakes.