Im surprised this has not happened before - at least to this scale. Im also thinking that, barring a combination of a mechanical (eg. rudder failure) and a simultaneous massive gust of wind - some are accusing this of being a planned accident.
There was a pilot on board as per requirements. Surely the sandstorms in that area have been a known thing for 100 years. Also, ships are limited to 6-8 kts.