Leigh,
Sun compass: Magnetic compasses are unreliable in that area. The SAS etc use a device that allows you to determine direction from the sun. Do a Google search for it.
I was unaware of potential issues with magnetic compasses in the UAE. On two resent trips to Abu Dhabi, I used my compass to align several SatCom antennas and it seamed to perform fine if I was clear of aircraft or structures. What is the source of your information?
I've spent a lot of time exploring the Mojave Desert in my neck of the woods, here in the western US, and the desert in the UAE is barren by comparison.
Wild_Weasel