What if we nuke the Empty Quarter (Rub' al Khali)?

The world’s largest sand sea — a nuclear explosion could glassify dunes and impact Gulf nations geopolitically.

Arabian PeninsulaSaudi ArabiadesertRub al KhaliMiddle Eastoilradiation
Published: 6/18/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Would oil reserves be affected?

Not directly, but nearby infrastructure could be.

Would it affect Yemen or UAE?

Yes — depending on blast location.

Would the sand turn to glass?

Yes, forming radioactive vitrified patches.