The Arabian Desert

The Arabian Desert is one of the largest deserts in the world. It covers most of the Arabian Peninsula. This includes countries like Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and Oman. The desert is famous for its huge sand dunes.

A Land of Extremes

The Arabian Desert is very hot and dry. In summer, the temperature can climb above 120 degrees. Nights can be cold, even in summer. Very little rain falls, so it is hard for plants and animals to live there.

A space photo shows the vast sandy Arabian Desert.
A space photo shows the vast sandy Arabian Desert. (Wikimedia Commons)

Life in the Sand

Even in such a tough place, life can be found. Camels, oryx, and sand cats live in the desert. People called Bedouins have lived here for thousands of years. They travel from place to place looking for water and grass for their animals.

Fun Facts

  • Part of the desert is called the Empty Quarter, or Rub' al Khali.
  • It is the largest sand desert in the world.
  • Some sand dunes in the desert are over 800 feet tall.

Did You Know?

Huge amounts of oil sit under the Arabian Desert, making it one of the most important energy areas on Earth.