March 2023.
The Empty Quarter, also known as the Rub' al Khali, is the largest sand desert in the world, spanning over four countries in the Arabian Peninsula. This vast expanse of golden sand dunes, salt flats, and ancient rock formations is home to a unique array of wildlife, from Arabian oryx to desert foxes and sand gazelles. For wildlife photographers, the Empty Quarter presents a rare and challenging opportunity to capture stunning images of these elusive creatures in their natural habitat.
If you're interested in exploring the Empty Quarter, I highly recommend reading Arabian Sands by Wilfred Thesiger. The book details his epic voyages through the Empty Quarter between 1940-1950, where he traversed the desert three times with only Bedouins and camels as his companions. Thesiger's writing is rich with detail and description, bringing to life the harsh and unforgiving environment of the desert, as well as the people and cultures he encountered on his journey.
Milkyway - Abu Dhabi
Throughout the book, Thesiger's love and respect for the Bedouin people who call the desert home is evident. He shares their customs, traditions, and way of life in vivid detail, providing an intimate glimpse into a culture that has existed in the region for centuries. Thesiger's writing is also deeply reflective and introspective, contemplating the meaning of life and the value of material possessions. His experiences in the desert lead him to appreciate the simplicity and beauty of life lived in harmony with nature, and his writing reflects this profound shift in perspective.
Overall, Arabian Sands is a must-read for anyone interested in travel writing, exploration, or the culture of the Arabian Peninsula. Thesiger's writing is both captivating and insightful, offering a glimpse into a world that is both fascinating and mysterious. His love for the desert and its people shines through every page, making this book a true classic of travel literature.
Sandfish
Praying Mantis
