1. Light, Loose-Fitting Clothes are a Must
The desert climate in Dubai is hot, with daytime temperatures often reaching 40°C (104°F). So, you need to wear loose, light and airy clothing. Avoid wearing tightly fitted clothes as they will soak up heat and sweat.
Pick loose, linen or cotton clothing. They are light to wear, lightweight, and able to absorb perspiration to remain cooler. Long-sleeved loose shirts may give you sunlight protection, with your skin never drying out and becoming sunburned.
For a woman, loose pants or long skirts paired with a lightweight blouse are apt for the occasion. For a man, light and comfortable pants or Dubai Desert Safari shorts are the best. Just be respectful, however–Dubai is full of cultural heritage, so dress modestly. Covering arms and legs, especially outside, is good etiquette.
2. Select Lighter and Neutral Colors.
When you are outdoors in the desert, dark colors (navy, black) will attract heat, and you will feel hotter. Lighter, neutral colors (beige, khaki, white, light blue) will provide a reflective source of light and will keep you cooler. Light colors are generally easier to clean. With deserts being lighter colored sand, in some cases, light articles of clothing will blend into the environment and not appear dirty.
3. Wear a Hat or Head Scarf.
The sun can be quite strong in the desert Safari, especially if you are outdoors for an extended time. An important measure to protect your head and face from the sun is to have a wide brimmed sun hat or head scarf. A wide rimmed hat will protect both your face and neck and reduce the chance of sunburn. Many people wear a traditional Middle Eastern piece of clothing called a Keffiyeh (a piece of Komin), that they find comfortable to shade their head and face from the sun. It can be used as a head wrap or neck wrap, to provide more shade. A Keffiyeh is also useful for wind/sand, while Dune Bashing.
4. Sunscreen is Necessary
While sunscreen technically is not “something you wear”, it is an essential in the desert. The sun is strong in Dubai and you can be looped under UV rays for long periods of time. For your face, neck and arms which are the most exposed directly take the time to put on broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. You will want to reapply sunscreen every two hours and especially if you are sweating or riding in a car on dune bashing in the desert, reapply frequently to avoid sunburn and painful suffering for the remainder of the safari.
5. Shoes.
Functional and Comfortable Desert terrain can be variable with fine soft sand, or rocky paths, so functional and comfortable shoes are needed. Closed shoes are best to wear. Make sure to only wear flip flops or lightweight sandals if you are riding a camel and since it is simple and acceptable footwear.
6. Stay Hydrated with a Water Bottle.
Even though a water bottle is not a piece of clothing, it can certainly prove to keep on your safe desert safari. The desert can heat up quickly and dehydration can happen in a blink of an eye. When in the desert, always make sure to have sufficient water with you at all times. While most desert safari tours will provide water for you, it is better to bring your own especially as there will be times when you are outside for several hours. Another option is a hydration pack. This allows you to sip water while you are on the move and not stopping frequently, which will provide consistent hydration for you on your desert safari adventure.
7. Protective Eyewear – Sun Glare
Sunglasses are a critical piece of kit when you’re outside in the desert exhibiting. Sunlight can be harsh and cause visibility problems. A good pair of UV protective sunglasses will take care of some of the harmful rays and glare coming up off of the sand. Select sunglasses that fit well are comfortable and will stay on your face. Wrap-around sunglasses will give you the greatest bang for your buck in the desert, as wrap-around will also protect your face by blocking light from the top, and glare from the sides and bottom of the glasses. Keep in mind too that the sun can also take an unfortunate toll on your eyes, lips, and skin if you are not protected from its damaging drying effects.
8. Evening Layer
Not only do desert daytime temperatures soar, but evenings can get quite chilly as the sun fades in the evening. Jackets or sweaters are a good idea to keep in your pack. Lightweight, packable jackets or sweaters that can either be tied around your waist or stuff down to a small size are ideal jackets or sweaters.
9. Leave Your Jewelry and Expensive Accessories at Home.
Although jewelry and expensive accessories can enhance your desert attire, it is best to leave them at home. Additionally, jewelry in the desert can bring unwanted attention. Instead, stick to basic accessories that serve a function, such as a watch or small backpack for your essentials; or, a practical option is a cross-body bag to keep your hands free to explore the desert.
10. Consider a Dress Code for a Desert Safari.
If you’re going to a luxury desert camp or on a guided tour, you also should think about a dress code. Each camp and tour company will have a unique code and publishes it on their website, but remember that many companies and camps ask visitors wear modest dress. You should also avoid wearing clothing that is too revealing in public or when riding a camel or any other activities. When in doubt, it best to err on the side of overdressing rather than underdressing. Not only will wearing something modest keep you comfortable, it will also signify respect for their values. Taking all this into account, a desert safari in Dubai is incredibly fun and one of the most memorable adventures.
Conclusion
Light and loose clothing, good shoes, and sun protection will be needed to enjoy yourself and be safe. You also want to check the weather before large changes from day to night. Now you are prepared to fully take advantage of beautiful desert and all of activities it has to offer by choosing the right clothing and gear! Have your bag ready, wear appropriate clothing, and enjoy your great Dubai desert adventures!
