Crossing the Empty Quarter: A Saudi Rediscovery

Dec 18, 2024

A tranquil oasis surrounded by sand dunes in the Empty Quarter desert under a clear sky.

An oasis in Saudi Arabia’s Empty Quarter, where water and vegetation break the monotony of the world’s largest sand desert. (Source: Shuttertock)

A Saudi adventurer is tracing a historical journey through the Rub’ al-Khali, or Empty Quarter — the largest continuous sand desert in the world. Badr Al-Shaibani will begin the expedition on Sunday, crossing the 650,000-square-kilometer desert from south to northeast, entirely on foot.

His journey stands out not only for its physical challenge but for its symbolic weight. As Saudi Arabia experiences a cultural awakening — from music festivals and theater to opera and international sporting events — a generation is reimagining what it means to be Saudi in a modern world. From the MDLBEAST music festival to the Red Sea Film Festival in Jeddah and the Diriyah Tennis Cup, the Kingdom is quickly establishing itself as a hub of contemporary entertainment catering to all tastes.

Yet alongside this rapid modernization is a parallel effort to reconnect with Saudi heritage. Poetry competitions, the revival of traditional crafts, and increased investment in historical preservation are gaining momentum. Still, for many, rediscovering the past is not easy. The complexity of the Arabic language, the depth of regional histories, and the layered social traditions — long overlooked due to decades of limited cultural exposure — make this process feel like uncovering an unfamiliar world. It requires time, patience, and a genuine desire to engage with one’s roots.

Badr Al-Shaibani’s trek through the Empty Quarter is a powerful expression of this rediscovery. He describes his journey as an attempt to inspire Saudis to reconnect with their heritage and to appreciate the vast, often untapped history of the land they call home. His undertaking reflects broader national efforts, such as the restoration of Diriyah, AlUla, and UNESCO World Heritage sites like Hegra, all aimed at reviving the Kingdom’s cultural and historical identity.

These initiatives reflect a unique intersection of nature, adventure, and cultural exploration. They also raise an important question: how can Saudi Arabia present its culture in a way that honors historical depth while embracing modernity?

Rediscovery is not just a personal or national project — it is also a form of cultural diplomacy. Balancing the vibrancy of the new with the richness of the old will be key to shaping the Kingdom’s narrative on the global stage. It is a demanding task, but one that holds the promise of profound rewards.