Not sure what to wear on a desert safari in Dubai? The right outfit makes a big difference: you will be bouncing over dunes in a 4×4, sandboarding, riding a camel and, on an evening safari, sitting out under the stars at a desert camp. This guide covers exactly what to wear and pack, season by season, for men, women and kids.
The short answer: desert safari outfit essentials
- Light, breathable clothes in cotton or linen that cover your shoulders and knees
- Comfortable closed shoes or sturdy sandals you do not mind filling with sand
- Sunglasses and a scarf or shemagh to protect your eyes and face from sun and blowing sand
- A light jacket or sweater for evening safaris in the cooler months
- Sunscreen, even late in the afternoon
What to wear for women
Loose, flowing pieces look great in photos and keep you comfortable during dune bashing. Good choices are a maxi dress or long skirt with a light layer, wide-leg linen trousers with a loose top, or a long-sleeved cotton shirt with comfortable leggings. Dubai is welcoming to visitors, but modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is respectful at the camp and avoids sunburn. Skip heels; flat sandals or trainers work best on sand. Tie long hair back or wear a scarf, as the wind on the dunes can be strong.
What to wear for men
Lightweight trousers or knee-length shorts, a breathable T-shirt or linen shirt, and trainers or sturdy sandals are ideal. A cap or hat helps on afternoon departures, and a light jacket is useful for winter evenings at the camp.
What to wear for kids
Dress children in comfortable cotton clothes they can get sandy, with closed shoes, sunglasses and a hat. Pack a spare top and a light jacket for the drive home after an evening safari, as kids often fall asleep in the car.
What to wear by season
November to March (cooler months)
This is peak desert safari season. Afternoons are warm and pleasant, but once the sun sets the desert cools down quickly. Wear light layers for the afternoon and bring a sweater, hoodie or light jacket for the camp, especially in December and January.
April to October (warmer months)
It is hot, particularly from June to September. Choose the lightest, most breathable fabrics in light colours, cover up against the sun, wear a hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of water. A sunrise morning safari or an evening departure avoids the hottest part of the day.
What to wear for each activity
- Dune bashing: comfortable clothes you can sit in for a bumpy ride. Avoid loose jewellery and keep sunglasses on a cord or in a case.
- Sandboarding: trousers or leggings protect your legs from hot sand, and closed shoes are easier to keep on.
- Camel ride: trousers or a longer skirt make it easier to sit comfortably.
- Quad biking and dune buggies: closed shoes, sunglasses and a scarf over your nose and mouth to keep out the dust. See our quad bike safari and dune buggy safari.
- Camp photos: our evening desert safari includes traditional Arabic costumes for photos, so you can dress up at the camp.
What to bring on a desert safari
- Phone or camera, ideally with a protective case against sand
- Sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm
- A scarf or shemagh
- A light jacket in winter
- Wet wipes and a small towel
- Any personal medication, including motion sickness tablets if you get car sick
You do not need to bring water or snacks on our tours: soft drinks and water are included, and the evening safari includes a BBQ buffet dinner.
What not to wear
- High heels or delicate shoes
- Expensive jewellery and watches that could get lost in the sand
- Very tight or heavy clothing such as thick denim in hot weather
- Clothes you would mind getting sandy
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear shorts on a desert safari?
Yes, knee-length shorts are fine. Longer clothing protects you better from the sun and hot sand, especially for sandboarding and camel rides.
Is it cold in the desert at night?
From November to March, evenings in the desert can feel cool, so bring a light jacket or sweater. From April to October, evenings are warm.
What shoes are best for a desert safari?
Comfortable trainers or sturdy sandals. Closed shoes are best if you plan to ride a quad bike or dune buggy.
Outfit sorted? Choose your desert safari package or book on WhatsApp. We pick you up from your hotel anywhere in Dubai or Sharjah.