RIYADH — British explorers Adam Wilton and Gavin Booth have completed ‘The Crescent Crossing’, marking the first fully self-sufficient foot expedition across Saudi Arabia’s Rub’ al-Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter, the largest continuous sand desert in the world.

On January 21, 2025, after 22 grueling days and covering 780 kilometers, the duo completed their journey from As Sulayyil to Haradh, via Ash Shalfa.

Unlike previous expeditions, this historic crossing was undertaken without external support, with Wilton and Booth hauling all their supplies and water in self-built rickshaw-style carts weighing over 200kg each.

A critical milestone in their journey was the Ash Shalfa oasis, a vital stop for replenishing water reserves in the heart of the desert.

Their route also followed parts of the historic tracks left by legendary British explorers Wilfred Thesiger and Harry St. John Philby in the 1930s and 1940s, adding a historical dimension to their feat.

Both adventurers, seasoned in extreme environments, previously completed an unsupported 2008 Antarctic expedition from the edge of the continent to the Geographic South Pole.

Reflecting on their achievement, Wilton and Booth remarked: "There was always uncertainty about whether we could haul such heavy loads across the sands. The trade-off between weight, speed, and water reserves was crucial. At times, we had doubts, but we pushed through. We are humbled by the hospitality of those we met along the way and grateful for this incredible journey through such a remarkable landscape."

Khalid Al Rabiah, CEO of Mallah Al-Doroub for Travel and Tourism Company, which provided logistical and advisory support, praised their determination, stating: "The Empty Quarter is one of the harshest environments on Earth, with extreme terrain and conditions. Adam and Gavin’s ability to complete this journey on a completely self-sufficient basis is a remarkable achievement. Their persistence and planning paid off — well done to both of them!" — SG