On a number of occasions I have seen large SUVs partially covered with a layer of beige around the front, bonnet and along the wings and sides.

At first I thought it was sand that had stuck to car, as many of these vehicles had Saudi plates. When you touch it, it feels like a heavy undercoat type of paint.

I have read that it is done by spraying water, then very fine sand on top, which dries and sticks to the car giving it the muddy camouflage  effect. It protects the car from chips, bigger sand particles when travelling at speed along a desert highway. I understand that is is easily removed with a pressure jet.

If anyone knows any different, please let me know.