The vast Sharqiya desert – also known as the Wahiba Sands, since this is the name of the local tribe – lies at the heart of Oman. Throughout the day, its dunes change colour from white to yellow to red. Just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Muscat or Sur, it is the most easily accessible desert area in the country. Using either of these two cities as a base means you can experience the desert in a day trip.