What to Wear in Dubai Desert Safari: Complete Outfit Guide

Planning a desert safari in Dubai? While the golden dunes, thrilling adventures, and magical sunsets might steal your attention, knowing what to wear is just as important to ensure you stay comfortable, safe, and stylish. The desert climate can be both intense and unpredictable — scorching sun during the day, chilly breezes at night, and plenty of sand all around. Whether you're riding camels, dune bashing, or enjoying a sunset dinner, the right outfit can make all the difference in your desert safari experience.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Desert Safari Outfit

Weather and Temperature Fluctuations

The desert climate can be deceptive. While it may be scorching hot during the day, temperatures can drop drastically in the evening. Dressing in layers helps you adapt to these extremes without sacrificing comfort. Breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are ideal for daytime, while carrying a light jacket or scarf ensures you’re prepared for the cooler nights.

Also, sand can heat up quickly under the sun, so long pants can protect your legs if you're sitting or walking on it. Understanding this variation in temperature is essential to avoid heat exhaustion during the day and discomfort after sundown.

Cultural Sensitivity and Modesty

Dubai is a Muslim country with strong cultural values, so dressing modestly is not only respectful but also encouraged — especially if your safari includes interactions with local hosts or visits to Bedouin-style camps. For both men and women, it's advisable to wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees.

Avoid sheer fabrics, low necklines, or very tight clothes. Not only does modest dressing show cultural respect, but it also protects your skin from the harsh sun, which is a win-win for comfort and courtesy.

Type of Activities Planned

Your outfit should reflect the activities you’ll be doing. If your safari includes dune bashing, sandboarding, or camel riding, opt for flexible, athletic-style wear that won’t restrict movement. For photography sessions or romantic dinners, you might want to pack something slightly more stylish yet still practical.

Always check your itinerary in advance and dress accordingly. Versatile, activity-appropriate clothing ensures you won’t have to sacrifice comfort or confidence throughout the day.

Duration of the Safari

The length of your safari experience matters. A morning safari may require only sun protection, while an overnight trip demands extra layers, toiletries, and maybe even a change of clothes. For full-day safaris, comfort is key — you’ll want breathable, moisture-wicking clothing that stays fresh even after hours in the heat.

Overnight desert stays also mean planning for sleepwear suitable for cooler temperatures and sandals or slippers for relaxing around the campsite. Thinking ahead about how long you’ll be out helps you avoid overpacking or underpreparing.

Footwear and Ground Conditions

Sand can be hot, coarse, and everywhere — so the shoes you choose can make or break your experience. While sandals may seem practical, they often fill up with sand and offer little protection during activities. Closed-toe shoes like trainers or hiking shoes provide better support and shield your feet from heat and rough terrain.

For those participating in camel rides or trekking, good grip and ankle support are crucial. And remember: socks made from breathable materials can help reduce sweating and sand irritation.

Wind and Sand Exposure

The desert isn’t just hot — it’s windy, especially in open dune areas. Wind gusts can blow fine sand into your eyes, mouth, and clothing. Wearing a light scarf or shemagh (headwrap) not only looks stylish but also protects your face and neck from blowing sand.

Sunglasses are another must-have. Choose wraparound styles that provide full coverage and won’t fall off during bumpy rides or windy conditions. Covering up doesn't just help with sun protection — it also shields against sand discomfort.

Practicality and Ease of Movement

Flowing dresses or tight jeans might look good in photos, but they’re not always functional in the desert. Choose clothes that allow you to bend, stretch, and sit comfortably, especially if you’ll be climbing dunes or getting in and out of a 4x4 vehicle frequently.

Elastic waistbands, breathable stretch fabrics, and relaxed fits are ideal for maintaining ease of movement. Think utility over appearance — or better yet, strike a balance between the two.

Color Choice and Sun Reflection

The desert sun is strong, and your color choices can impact how you feel. Light colors like white, beige, and soft pastels reflect sunlight and help keep your body temperature down. Darker shades tend to absorb heat, making you feel warmer and sweat more.

In addition to comfort, lighter tones look stunning against the desert backdrop and work beautifully in photos. Avoid bright neon colors or anything that might attract unnecessary attention or bugs.

Photography Considerations

Let’s be honest — most of us want great pictures during a desert safari. Earth-toned outfits like olive green, cream, or rust look amazing in golden hour lighting and blend well with the natural surroundings. Avoid loud patterns or overly busy prints, as they can clash with the serene desert landscape.

Also, keep in mind accessories like hats or flowing scarves — they not only add flair to your look but also provide functional protection from the sun and sand. Think "Instagram-worthy" without compromising on practicality.

Personal Comfort and Confidence

Ultimately, the best outfit is the one you feel confident and comfortable in. If you're constantly adjusting your clothes or feeling too hot, it can take away from the experience. Choose breathable materials, reliable fits, and layers that you can remove or add based on the moment.

Confidence comes from being prepared. When you dress appropriately for the environment, the culture, and the activities, you can focus on enjoying the magic of the Dubai desert to the fullest.

Related Tour : Desert Safari in Dubai Tickets

What to AVOID Wearing on a Desert Safari in Dubai

Dressing appropriately for the desert isn’t just about knowing what to wear — it’s equally important to know what not to wear. Some choices might seem stylish or convenient, but they can quickly turn into discomfort or even disrespect in Dubai’s desert environment. Here’s what you should leave out of your desert wardrobe:

1. Tight or Non-Breathable Fabrics

Avoid materials like polyester, leather, or skin-tight denim. These fabrics trap heat and sweat, making you feel sticky and uncomfortable during outdoor activities. They also restrict airflow and make movement more difficult on uneven terrain.

Choose lightweight and breathable alternatives like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking performance fabrics that allow your body to regulate its temperature naturally in the heat.

2. Revealing Clothing

Dubai has modesty norms, even in tourist-friendly desert areas. Avoid short shorts, low-cut tops, crop tops, or sheer clothing. Revealing outfits may attract unwanted attention and are considered culturally insensitive in local contexts.

Even though you're not in the city center, respect for cultural traditions extends to the desert — especially if you're visiting traditional Bedouin camps or engaging with local hosts.

3. Open-Toe Sandals or Flip-Flops

Wearing flip-flops or open sandals might seem like a comfortable option, but they are a poor choice in the desert. Sand gets everywhere and can cause irritation or burns on bare feet. These types of footwear also offer no protection during activities like camel rides or hiking on hot sand.

Instead, choose sturdy closed-toe shoes that support your feet and keep sand out as much as possible.

4. Heavy Jewelry and Accessories

Big earrings, layered necklaces, or bangles may look great in photos but are not practical in the desert. They can overheat quickly, get tangled during rides, or even get lost in the sand.

Stick to minimal, functional accessories like a sun hat, polarized sunglasses, or a lightweight scarf that add both style and purpose.

5. Dark Colors

Dark-colored clothing absorbs more heat and makes you feel warmer, which can lead to faster fatigue and discomfort. In the intense Dubai sun, wearing black or navy can significantly increase body temperature.

Opt for lighter shades like beige, white, or olive that reflect sunlight and help keep you cool while also blending beautifully with the desert environment.

6. Overly Formal or Stylish Outfits

This isn’t the time for heels, bodycon dresses, or designer pieces. While it’s tempting to dress up for photos, the desert is dusty, windy, and full of unexpected movement.

Prioritize comfort and practicality. You can still look great while wearing safari-appropriate outfits designed for flexibility and durability.

Dubai Desert Safari Dress Code: What to Keep in Mind

✅ Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics
Cotton and linen are ideal for keeping cool under the desert sun. Avoid synthetic materials that trap heat.

✅ Bring a light jacket or sweater
Evenings in the desert can get surprisingly chilly — a thin layer will keep you warm after sunset.

✅ Wear long sleeves and full-length pants
They protect your skin from sunburn, insect bites, and contact with hot sand.

✅ If wearing shorts, keep them mid-thigh or longer
Very short shorts are culturally inappropriate and may be uncomfortable in group settings.

✅ Avoid low-cut or overly revealing tops
For women, sleeveless tops are fine if they’re modest — skip deep necklines or sheer fabrics.

✅ Avoid short skirts
Sitting on the ground for meals or activities makes them impractical and uncomfortable.

✅ Opt for closed-toe shoes
Sneakers or breathable hiking shoes protect your feet from sand, heat, and rough terrain.

✅ Wear a hat or scarf
Protect your head and neck from sun exposure and wind with lightweight headwear.

✅ Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen
Essential for shielding your skin and eyes from the intense desert sunlight.

Desert Safari Clothing in Winter

While Dubai’s winter months (typically November to February) bring cooler and more pleasant weather, dressing appropriately for a desert safari still requires careful planning. The temperature can feel warm and sunny during the day, but it tends to drop quickly after sunset — especially in the open desert.

Here’s what to wear for a winter safari:

• Layer Up Smartly
  Start with a breathable base layer like a cotton t-shirt or long-sleeve top. Over that, add a light fleece or hoodie that can easily be removed as the day warms up. This way, you’re prepared for both midday sun and evening chill.
• Full-Length Bottoms
  Lightweight jeans, joggers, or breathable trekking pants are ideal. They protect your legs from the sun, sand, and any sudden gusts of cold wind without making you feel too hot during daytime activities.
• Bring a Windproof Jacket or Outer Layer
  Evenings can be breezy and cool. A packable windbreaker or light thermal jacket will come in handy, especially during sunset camel rides or overnight safaris.
• Closed-Toe Shoes and Warm Socks
  Your feet will thank you for wearing sneakers or desert boots with socks — especially when the sand cools down in the evening hours.
• Accessories Still Matter
  A hat or scarf for sun protection, sunglasses for glare, and lip balm or moisturizer for the dry air are must-haves. And yes — don’t skip the sunscreen just because it’s winter!

Desert Safari Clothing in Summer

Dubai’s summer (typically May to September) is intensely hot, with temperatures often soaring above 40°C (104°F). A desert safari during this time means you’ll need to dress with maximum heat protection and breathability in mind, especially for morning or evening safaris.

Here’s what to wear for a summer safari:

• Light and Breathable Fabrics
  Choose loose-fitting clothes made of cotton, bamboo, or linen. Avoid anything tight or synthetic — these materials trap heat and can cause overheating or discomfort.
• Short or Long Sleeves?
  While short sleeves might seem logical, long, loose sleeves made from light fabric provide better sun protection. They also help keep sand off your skin during windy moments.
• Airy Bottoms or Wide-Leg Pants
  Lightweight trousers or long skirts offer both airflow and sun protection. If you choose shorts, make sure they are modest and at least mid-thigh in length.
• Footwear and Socks
  Stick with breathable, closed-toe shoes like mesh sneakers. Avoid sandals — sand gets in and can burn your feet. Light socks help prevent sweat build-up and irritation.
• Accessories That Protect
  A wide-brim hat, UV-protection sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are non-negotiable. A cooling scarf or neck wrap can also provide relief from the intense heat.

Winter vs. Summer Safari Clothing: Quick Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions: What to Wear on a Dubai Desert Safari

Do I need to dress modestly for a desert safari?

Yes. While desert tours are designed for tourists, it's still respectful to wear modest clothing — especially when visiting traditional camps. Covering shoulders and knees is recommended for both men and women.

Can I wear shorts in the desert?

Yes, but keep them mid-thigh length or longer. Short shorts are not culturally appropriate and can also be uncomfortable while sitting on the ground during meals or performances.

Should I bring a jacket to the desert?

Absolutely — especially during the winter months or if you're on an evening or overnight safari. The desert can get surprisingly cold after sunset.

Are sandals okay for a desert safari?

Not ideal. Sandals can allow hot sand to get in and may cause discomfort during activities. Closed-toe shoes like breathable sneakers or hiking shoes are much more practical.

What should children wear to a desert safari?

Kids should wear lightweight, breathable clothes that cover most of their skin to protect against the sun. A hat, sunglasses, and closed shoes are also important. Don’t forget sunscreen!

Conclusion

Choosing the right outfit for your Dubai desert safari can make all the difference in how enjoyable your experience is. From the scorching sun of summer to the breezy evenings of winter, understanding what to wear ensures you stay comfortable, protected, and culturally respectful. Whether you’re riding camels, watching the sunset, or dining under the stars — dress smart, pack light, and enjoy every moment of your desert adventure.