To fully enjoy a desert safari in Dubai, it’s crucial to wear light, breathable clothing, accessorize with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and opt for sturdy, closed-toe footwear to ensure maximum comfort and protection.
Planning your outfit for a desert safari in Dubai is a vital step towards ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable adventure. As a tour guide with extensive experience leading groups through the vast, beautiful landscapes of the Arabian desert, I’ve seen firsthand how the right clothing can make a difference in the overall experience.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to dress for your desert safari, based on years of practical experience and feedback from countless adventurers.
What to Wear in Dubai Desert Safari
When planning what to wear for a desert safari in Dubai, it’s important to consider the climate, activities, and cultural norms to ensure you are both comfortable and respectful. Here’s a breakdown of the appropriate attire that will help you get the most out of your desert adventure:
Clothing
- Lightweight, Breathable Fabrics: Choose garments made of natural fibers like cotton or linen. These materials are ideal for the desert as they allow your skin to breathe and keep you cool. Opt for light colors that reflect the sun’s rays rather than absorb them.
- Long Sleeves and Pants: To protect your skin from the sun’s harsh UV rays and the sand, long sleeves and pants are recommended. These also provide protection during activities like quad biking or sandboarding, where you might be exposed to flying debris.
Footwear
- Closed-Toe Shoes: Sand in the desert can be extremely hot, and the terrain can be rugged. Durable, closed-toe shoes such as sneakers or light hiking boots are best for protecting your feet and providing the necessary grip and support for activities like climbing sand dunes or operating an ATV.
Accessories
- Hat: A wide-brimmed hat is essential to shield your face and neck from the sun. This can also help prevent heatstroke during the hottest parts of the day.
- Sunglasses: High-quality sunglasses with UV protection will protect your eyes from the glare of the sun on the sand, making it easier to navigate the bright environment.
- Scarf: A light scarf can be versatile. Use it to cover your head or face for protection against the sun or sand during activities like a camel ride or a windy day.
Additional Tips
- Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF before you leave for your safari, and reapply as necessary, especially if you are sweating or come into contact with water.
- Layering: Even though it’s hot during the day, temperatures can drop quickly and significantly in the desert at night. Packing a lightweight jacket or shawl might be wise if you plan to be out after sunset.
- Hydration: While not part of your attire, carrying water with you during a desert safari is crucial to avoid dehydration.
By dressing appropriately for a Dubai desert safari, you not only ensure your own comfort and safety but also respect the local culture and customs, enhancing your overall experience of this spectacular environment.
Add Extra Layers as the Desert Evening Sets In
When the sun sets in the desert, the temperature can drop by as much as 30 degrees Fahrenheit—what was a hot day quickly turns into a chilly night. That’s why it’s smart to pack some extra layers to keep warm and comfortable.
For women, a wool pashmina shawl, a sweater, or a lightweight jacket are great choices. A cotton hoodie is also a great option as it layers well over dresses. For men, a lightweight fleece or sweatshirt works well over a T-shirt. If you want something a bit warmer without the heaviness, consider a wool blend travel blazer or a lightweight down vest for cozy insulation without the bulk.
As the desert air cools down in the evening, having just a thin scarf won’t cut it. Make sure to have a proper jacket, sweater, or hoodie with you. These will keep you warm and comfy as you enjoy the evening by the campfire under the star-filled desert sky.
Dressing for Desert Activities in Dubai
Heading out for a desert safari in Dubai? You’re in for a mix of laid-back and high-energy activities! Here’s how to dress to make the most of your desert adventure:
- Dune Bashing: The journey starts with a thrilling 4×4 ride over the dunes, and it can get quite bumpy! Ladies, you might want to wear something supportive as you’ll be moving around a lot in the vehicle. Remember, this activity is not recommended for young kids, pregnant women, or anyone with back or heart conditions.
- Camel Riding: This is a classic part of the desert experience. Camel riding isn’t the most graceful activity, so opt for practicality over style. Shorts or trousers are better choices than skirts, and make sure to secure any loose items.
- Sand Boarding: Ready for some excitement? Sand boarding involves a lot of sand and a few spills! Wear closed-toe shoes and trousers to keep the sand out and protect your legs when you tumble.
- Quad Biking/Fat Tire Biking: These activities often require closed-toe footwear, and if you’re straddling a bike, a short skirt just won’t do. Tie back long hair, and sports attire will serve you well.
- BBQ Dinner & Entertainment: The evening winds down with a meal usually seated on rugs on the ground. Wear something you can comfortably sit in, and after a day of desert sports, you might appreciate a fresh shirt and some deodorant before dinner. A light dance might cap off the evening, so be ready to groove a little!
With these tips, you’ll be perfectly outfitted to enjoy everything from the calm to the exhilarating moments of your Dubai desert safari. Remember, it’s all about comfort, practicality, and a bit of preparation.
Essentials to Pack for a Dubai Desert Safari Beyond Clothing
For a Dubai desert safari, consider packing these essentials beyond clothing:
- Lip Balm with SPF: To protect against chapped lips.
- Water Bottle: Essential for staying hydrated.
- Camera or Smartphone: For capturing memories.
- Protective Cases or Bags: To keep electronics safe from sand.
- Power Bank: Keeps your devices charged.
- GPS Device or App: For navigation assistance.
- Small Backpack: To carry all your items easily.
- Snacks: Energy bars or nuts for quick energy.
- Moisturizer and Hand Sanitizer: To combat dry desert air.
- Portable Seat Pad or Blanket: Comfort for seating on the ground.
- Basic First Aid Kit: Includes band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and personal medications.
- Flashlight or Headlamp: Useful for night time.
What to AVOID wearing on a Desert Safari in Dubai
When preparing for a desert safari in Dubai, it’s just as important to know what not to wear as it is to know what to wear. Here are some key items to avoid:
Heavy, Non-Breathable Fabrics: Avoid wearing denim jeans or thick fabrics that don’t allow your skin to breathe. These can become uncomfortable in the heat and aren’t ideal for the temperature fluctuations in the desert.
Bright Colors: Dark and very bright colors can attract more heat. Stick to lighter, neutral colors which reflect the sun’s rays better.
Open Shoes or High Heels: Sandals, flip-flops, and high heels are not suitable for the sandy and uneven terrain. They offer little protection against the heat of the sand and can make walking difficult.
Excessive Jewelry: Heavy or excessive jewelry can be cumbersome and uncomfortable during active experiences like sandboarding or camel riding. It’s also easier to lose in the desert.
Perfumes or Strong Scents: Strong fragrances can attract insects, which are more prevalent in the desert environment. It’s best to avoid using strong perfumes or colognes.
Shorts or Skimpy Clothing: While it might be tempting to wear less due to the heat, shorts or very short skirts can expose your skin to sunburn and aren’t respectful of the local culture when visiting rural areas.
Choosing the right clothing and avoiding these items can greatly enhance your comfort and enjoyment during a Dubai desert safari.
Final Thoughts
Dressing appropriately for a desert safari in Dubai can significantly enhance your comfort and enjoyment of the adventure. By following these detailed guidelines, you’ll be well-prepared to face the desert elements, allowing you to focus on the breathtaking scenery and unique experiences that await you. As a guide, I assure you that attention to these details will make your desert adventure both safe and memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do people dress in the desert in Dubai?
In the desert, people prioritize comfort and protection from the sun. Typical attire includes lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants made from breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. Wide-brimmed hats or scarves are common for head protection, along with sunglasses and sunscreen to shield against the sun’s UV rays. For footwear, closed-toe shoes like sneakers or boots are preferred to protect against the hot sand and rough terrain.
How do I prepare for a desert safari in Dubai?
Preparing for a desert safari involves a few key steps:
- Clothing: Wear comfortable, breathable clothing that covers your arms and legs. This protects against both sun and sand.
- Protection: Bring sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen to protect against the sun. A scarf can be useful for protecting your face in windy conditions.
- Hydration: Take plenty of water to stay hydrated, as the dry desert air can dehydrate you quickly.
- Footwear: Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for activities like sandboarding or camel riding.
- Extras: Consider packing a camera with a protective bag, a power bank for your devices, and perhaps snacks for energy.
How do foreigners dress in Dubai?
Foreigners are expected to dress modestly in public areas in Dubai. This means covering shoulders and knees. While the city is modern and cosmopolitan, respecting local customs is important. At beaches, pools, and inside resort areas, more relaxed clothing like swimsuits is acceptable.
What to wear in Dubai as a woman?
Women should aim for modesty in their dress by covering shoulders and knees, particularly when visiting malls, restaurants, and public places. Lightweight trousers, long skirts, and sleeved tops are suitable. In more conservative areas and during religious observances, it’s advisable to cover more thoroughly, including arms and possibly a headscarf.
How many hours is a desert safari in Dubai?
A typical desert safari in Dubai lasts about 5-6 hours. It usually includes travel time to the desert, various activities like camel riding, sandboarding, and a cultural show, followed by a dinner. Safaris often start in the late afternoon and extend into the evening to capture the sunset and cooler night temperatures.
How strict is Dubai’s dress code?
Dubai’s dress code is moderate but it does enforce modesty more than many Western countries. While it’s liberal compared to some other parts of the Middle East, it’s important to cover shoulders and knees in public places. In private resorts or hotels, Western dress is generally acceptable. The dress code is stricter in places of worship or government buildings where full coverage might be required.
Understanding and respecting these guidelines will ensure a comfortable and respectful visit, especially during engaging activities like a desert safari.
