What to Wear in Dubai Desert Safari. Dubai is renowned for its luxury, towering skyscrapers, and extravagant lifestyle. However, there’s more to this city than meets the eye, with the serene and rugged Dubai Desert offering a stark contrast to the bustling city. Going on a desert safari is one of the most popular activities for tourists, providing a chance to experience the beauty of the desert, go dune bashing, enjoy camel rides, and witness the mesmerizing sunset.
But what should you wear to ensure that you stay comfortable, stylish, and ready for the desert adventure? This guide will walk you through the essentials of desert safari attire, including tips on staying cool, protected, and looking good while enjoying one of Dubai’s most unforgettable experiences.
Why Dress Right for a Desert Safari?
When you’re heading into the desert, your clothing choice can make a big difference in your comfort and overall experience. The desert environment presents a unique set of challenges, from the intense heat during the day to the chilly desert nights. The key is to dress in a way that keeps you comfortable, safe from the sun, and stylish for those desert photos. 🌞
Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on a romantic getaway, dressing appropriately for a Dubai desert safari will ensure that you enjoy every moment of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Here are some factors to consider when choosing what to wear in the Dubai desert:
- Weather: The desert can be extremely hot during the day, but temperatures can drop significantly at night. It’s essential to be prepared for both extremes.
- Activities: You’ll be participating in activities like dune bashing, camel rides, and possibly sandboarding, which require clothing that is practical and comfortable.
- Cultural Respect: Dubai is a culturally rich city, and it’s important to dress modestly when venturing into public spaces, including the desert.
Essential Desert Safari Clothing for Women 👗
1. Light, Breathable Fabrics
The desert heat can be intense, especially during the summer months. To stay cool, it’s crucial to wear clothing made of light, breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking blends. These materials will keep you cool and comfortable, helping you avoid overheating.
- Tops: A lightweight, long-sleeved shirt or blouse is a great choice for both sun protection and comfort. The long sleeves will shield your skin from the harsh rays while keeping you cool. Avoid sleeveless tops as they may expose you to sunburns.
- Bottoms: Loose-fitting pants or a maxi skirt are ideal for desert safaris. They provide comfort during activities like camel rides or dune bashing and help protect your legs from the sun. Opt for something light and airy, like linen or cotton trousers.
- Dress Options: If you prefer dresses, a long, flowy dress in a breathable material can be a stylish yet practical choice. A dress with sleeves is even better for sun protection.
2. Footwear
You’ll be walking on sandy dunes and uneven desert terrain, so comfortable footwear is a must. Closed-toe shoes or sturdy sandals are ideal for the desert safari experience. Avoid flip-flops or open-toe sandals, as they won’t provide enough support or protection.
- Sandals: Opt for a pair of sturdy, comfortable sandals with a secure strap to keep them in place.
- Sneakers: If you’re planning to do a lot of walking or sandboarding, sneakers with a good grip are the best option.
- Boots: For a more rugged look, lightweight desert boots can offer both comfort and protection from the sand.
3. Accessories
Desert sun is harsh, and you need to protect your eyes, face, and skin from its intensity. Here are a few accessories that will not only add to your style but also help protect you:
- Sunglasses: A good pair of UV-protected sunglasses will protect your eyes from the bright desert sun. Choose a stylish frame that suits your face shape, and make sure they offer 100% UV protection.
- Scarf or Shawl: A light scarf or shawl can be used to cover your shoulders or head, providing additional sun protection. Plus, it adds a stylish touch to your outfit, perfect for photo ops in the desert. 🌵
- Hat: A wide-brimmed hat will protect your face, neck, and shoulders from the sun. Opt for a lightweight, breathable hat that will keep you cool.
4. Sun Protection
While clothing can protect your skin, you also need to apply sunscreen generously. SPF 30 or higher is recommended for sun exposure in the desert. Don’t forget to reapply every few hours, especially if you plan on spending extended time outdoors. Also, consider using a lip balm with SPF to keep your lips moisturized.
Essential Desert Safari Clothing for Men 👕
1. Light and Comfortable Fabrics
As with women’s clothing, men should opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics that are ideal for the desert heat. Cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking fabrics are perfect for keeping you cool and dry throughout the safari experience.
- Tops: A lightweight, long-sleeved shirt or a light, cotton polo is an excellent choice. This type of shirt will help shield you from the sun while allowing air circulation to keep you comfortable.
- Bottoms: Loose-fitting pants or cargo shorts are ideal for men. If you choose shorts, make sure they are long enough to cover your knees, as some desert safaris may have cultural considerations regarding modesty.
- Shirts and T-Shirts: Long-sleeved shirts are particularly useful in protecting your skin from the sun and heat. If it’s too hot, a loose short-sleeve shirt can also work, but it’s best to keep your arms covered.
2. Footwear
Just like women, men need comfortable and sturdy shoes for their desert safari. The footwear you choose should provide comfort and support for walking on sandy terrain and for engaging in activities like camel rides or dune bashing.
- Closed-Toe Shoes: Sneakers or comfortable hiking shoes with a good grip are ideal for a desert safari. Make sure your shoes are breathable to prevent your feet from overheating.
- Sandals: A good pair of sturdy sandals with straps that fit securely can also work well, especially for shorter walks in the sand.
3. Accessories
While sunglasses and hats are essential for both men and women, there are other accessories that can elevate your desert safari outfit.
- Sunglasses: A stylish pair of sunglasses is essential to protect your eyes from the intense desert sun. Choose a durable pair with a wrap-around style for added protection.
- Hat: A wide-brimmed hat or a cap will keep the sun off your face and neck. A light-colored hat is perfect for reflecting the sun’s rays, keeping you cool.
- Scarf or Headgear: A scarf can come in handy to cover your neck and face if needed. Some people choose to wear a traditional keffiyeh (headscarf) in the desert, which also adds a stylish touch.
4. Sun Protection
Men should also apply sunscreen with a high SPF to ensure they are fully protected from the sun’s harmful rays. Don’t forget the neck, ears, and the back of your hands, which are often overlooked when applying sunscreen. A lip balm with SPF is also a good idea.
Dressing for the Evening Desert Safari
As the sun begins to set, the desert temperature can drop significantly. This is especially true during the winter months when the evening chill can catch you by surprise. You’ll want to dress in layers to stay comfortable.
1. Light Jacket or Sweater
A lightweight jacket, hoodie, or sweater is perfect for the evening. It’s not too heavy but will provide enough warmth as the desert cools down after sunset.
2. Layers for Flexibility
Layering is key in the desert. During the day, you’ll want to wear breathable fabrics, but as the night approaches, it’s helpful to add a light jacket or shawl. You can easily remove layers when the temperature rises, and put them back on when it gets chilly.
Additional Tips for a Comfortable and Enjoyable Safari 🏜️
- Stay Hydrated: The desert heat can be intense, so it’s essential to drink plenty of water throughout the safari. Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated.
- Avoid Heavy Makeup: The desert can be dusty, and makeup may not stay in place. Keep your skin bare or apply minimal makeup for comfort.
- Bring a Camera: You’ll want to capture the breathtaking desert views and memorable moments during your safari, so don’t forget to bring a camera or smartphone.
Conclusion
What you wear on a Dubai Desert Safari can make all the difference in how comfortable and enjoyable your experience is. Whether you’re going for a casual camel ride, trying your hand at sandboarding, or simply watching the sunset over the dunes, choosing the right attire will keep you protected from the sun and sand while allowing you to move freely.
Remember to prioritize breathable fabrics, sun protection, and comfortable footwear. Don’t forget to layer up for the cooler evenings and bring accessories like sunglasses and hats to enhance your safari experience. With the right outfit, you’ll be ready to enjoy the adventure of a lifetime in the magical Dubai desert. 🌅
FAQs
1. Can I wear shorts to a desert safari in Dubai? While shorts are acceptable, it’s better to opt for longer pants to protect your legs from the sun and sand.
2. Is it necessary to wear a scarf on a desert safari? A scarf is optional but highly recommended for sun protection, particularly for your face and neck.
3. What shoes should I wear for a desert safari? Comfortable, closed-toe shoes or sturdy sandals with a secure strap are ideal for navigating the sand dunes.
4. Can I wear makeup during a desert safari? It’s best to keep makeup minimal as the desert heat and dust can cause it to wear off quickly.
5. What should I bring to a desert safari? In addition to appropriate clothing, bring a camera, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a water bottle to stay hydrated.
