At around 2.3 million square kms, it is Asia's largest desert and the fourth largest in the world.
Daytime highs can exceed 50°C in summer, while evenings can be unexpectedly chilly.
The desert supports a diverse range of plants and animals that have evolved to thrive in such settings.
Prehistoric tribes and civilisations flourished, using oases as hubs for trade and cultural expression.
It was once part of the incense trade route that connected the Mediterranean world to Arabia, India, and beyond.
The region's economy is greatly impacted by the oil-rich desert.
Adventure tourism, which includes safaris and sandboarding, draws visitors from all over the world.