Adventurers complete first self-sufficient foot crossing of the Saudi Arabian Empty Quarter

Adventurers complete first self-sufficient foot crossing of the Saudi Arabian Empty Quarter

On 21 January 2025, Adam Wilton MBE and Gavin Booth MBE successfully completed ‘The Crescent Crossing’, a self-sufficient foot expedition across the Rub’ al-Khali (the “Empty Quarter”) in Saudi Arabia, the largest continuous sand desert in the world.

Covering 780 kilometers in just 22 days, the duo crossed the desert from As Sulayyil to Haradh, via Ash Shalfa. The expedition is unique as it represents the first time the Rub’ al-Khali has been crossed on foot, on a fully self-sufficient basis. Carrying all their supplies and water, in self-built rickshaw-style carts weighing over 200kg each, the expedition was a huge physical challenge. It also provided a window to both the human and physical geographical changes in the northern Rub’ al-Khali. The route depended on a critical stop at the Ash Shalfa oasis, in the centre of the desert, to replenish water reserves. 

Furthermore, the expedition partly covered the historic tracks left by British explorers Wilfred Thesiger and Harry St. John Philby, in the 1930s and 1940s. Booth and Wilton are experienced adventurers who have completed several expeditions in extreme environments, including an unsupported 2008 expedition from the edge of the Antarctic continent to the Geographic South Pole. 

Upon finishing ‘The Crescent Crossing’, the pair commented: “There was always a high degree of uncertainty as to whether it would be possible to haul a huge amount of weight across the sands. The trade-off between weight and speed and having enough water was critical. There were times when we had doubts, but we pushed through. We are truly grateful for the opportunity to journey through this incredible landscape and are humbled by the hospitality of those we met along the way”.

Khalid Al Rabiah, CEO of Mallah Al-Doroub for Travel and Tourism Company, who provided advice and logistics to the expedition, commented: “The Empty Quarter desert is one of the harshest and most difficult environments with a variety of challenging terrain, and it is amazing that Adam and Gavin managed to finish this journey on a completely self-sufficient basis. This is a unique achievement, and their persistence and planning paid off. Well done Adam and Gavin!”

Supporting Clean Water Initiatives 

In line with the expedition’s reliance on water, the team is supporting the UK-based charity Frank Water, which works to alleviate water poverty, enhance health, and promote sustainable water management in India, Nepal, Kenya, and beyond. Over 19 years, Frank Water has reached more than 500,000 people across 747 vulnerable communities. 

The adventurers have self-funded the expedition, ensuring that 100% of any money raised goes directly to the charity. Wilton and Booth hope to inspire corporate sponsors and individual donors to support Frank Water’s impactful work. “This journey underscores the critical role of water in human survival and the necessity of sustainable water management,” says Wilton. “We believe in doing extraordinary things to inspire and give back,” says Booth.

Support their fundraising by donating here: https://www.thecrescent-crossing.com/

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