I went out to the desert on Wednesday evening, near Hatta Road, and now understand why they're considered to be such inhospitable places. It wasn't especially hot - it's winter here - but it was very dusty, the light was extremely gloomy, and though I'm really pleased I had the opportunity to go, I was glad to get back to the car and drive back to Dubai. Despite its beauty, there was something oppressive and alien about that landscape - dead, dry and empty. That said, I would like to go again, but it was definitely an intimidating place.

This is the first of two sand shots - tomorrow's is a bit less literal - but I do have at least two more than I'll put up on Monday and Tuesday. Tomorrow's will be posted by autopilot as I get on a plane at 1am on Monday morning and will be spending the rest of the night travelling home via Paris.