So, you’ve booked your Dubai desert safari—exciting, right? Dune bashing, camel rides, sunset views, BBQ dinners, and maybe a little sandboarding too. But before the adventure begins, there’s one question you must answer:
What to wear in Dubai desert safari?
It may seem simple, but your outfit can make a huge difference in how comfortable (and photogenic) your experience turns out. Whether you’re going for a morning ride or an evening tour, here’s everything you need to know about dressing right for the desert—without overpacking.
1. Light, Breathable Fabrics Are Key
Let’s face it—the desert gets hot, especially during the day. So the best thing you can wear is lightweight, breathable clothing that keeps you cool and lets your skin breathe.
Best fabrics?
Cotton, linen, and moisture-wicking blends. These are your best friends in the heat.
Outfit Tips:
- For Women: Maxi dresses, long cotton skirts, wide-leg trousers, or palazzo pants with a loose top
- For Men: Cargo pants, joggers, or knee-length shorts paired with a cotton T-shirt or linen shirt
2. Don’t Forget the Footwear
Yes, you’ll be walking on sand, and maybe climbing a dune or two. So let’s leave the flip-flops at the hotel, shall we?
Ideal desert shoes are ones that are closed-toe, comfortable, and easy to clean.
Smart Footwear Options:
- Sneakers
- Closed-toe sandals
- Lightweight hiking shoes
Avoid anything fancy or heavy—sand will get everywhere, and your feet need room to breathe.
3. Dress Modestly—Respect the Culture
While Dubai is a modern city, the UAE is still a Muslim country. That means modest clothing is always appreciated, even on safari.
You don’t need to be fully covered, but it’s respectful (and smarter for sun protection) to keep shoulders and knees covered.
Clothing Etiquette:
- No short shorts or strapless tops
- Avoid tight or sheer clothing
- Bring a scarf or shawl—it’s a life-saver for both modesty and sand protection
4. Pack for Cooler Evenings
Here’s a surprise: the desert can get chilly after sunset—especially in the winter months (Nov to Feb).
If your tour includes a night show or dinner under the stars, bring something warm just in case.
Must-Haves for the Evening:
- A light jacket or hoodie
- Long pants or a wrap
- Shawl or pashmina for women
5. Accessories That Do More Than Look Good
In the desert, accessories aren’t just about looking cute—they’re also practical tools for surviving the elements.
Essentials You’ll Thank Us For:
- Wide-brimmed hat or cap: Sun protection is non-negotiable
- Sunglasses: Choose UV-protected ones
- Scarf or shemagh: Keeps dust out of your face and adds flair
You can even wrap the scarf around your head like the locals do. Bonus? Your photos will look amazing.
6. What Colors Should You Wear?
Color isn’t just about style—it’s about temperature control.
Light colors reflect the sun’s rays and help you stay cool. They also look fantastic against the desert’s golden backdrop.
Desert-Friendly Colors:
- Beige, tan, white, olive, dusty rose, soft blue
- Avoid black—it soaks up heat like crazy
Neutral tones also pop beautifully in your photos, especially during golden hour.
7. Want Great Safari Photos? Dress for the Gram
Let’s be honest: a desert safari is a photographer’s dream. With dunes, camels, and dramatic skies, you’ll want your outfit to match the magic.
Instagram-Ready Outfit Ideas:
- Women: Flowing dresses, statement earrings, earth-tone scarves
- Men: Button-down shirt, desert boots, vintage sunglasses
Snap your pics just before sunset for that dreamy golden glow.
🧭 Final Thoughts
To wrap it up—what to wear in Dubai desert safari is all about balancing comfort, culture, and a bit of style. Whether you’re climbing dunes, posing by a camel, or sipping Arabic tea under the stars, the right outfit helps you enjoy it all without distractions.
Dress smart, pack light, and most importantly—soak in every magical moment the desert has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, you can, but it’s better to wear long, loose pants out of respect for the local culture and for sun protection. Long pants also protect you from scratches during activities like camel riding or sandboarding.
Women should avoid tight, revealing, or short clothing. Instead, choose maxi dresses, long skirts, or loose trousers paired with light tops. A scarf or shawl adds extra coverage and sun protection.
Not really. Closed-toe shoes like sneakers or desert boots are better because sand can easily get into open footwear and cause discomfort.
If you’re doing an evening safari, yes. The temperature drops quickly after sunset, especially in winter. A light jacket or hoodie is enough.
Keep it minimal. While a few pieces can enhance your look for photos, large or expensive jewelry might get lost in the sand or become uncomfortable during dune rides.
Definitely! A hat or scarf helps block harsh sun and flying dust. It’s stylish and practical.
Stick with light, neutral shades like beige, white, or tan. These colors reflect sunlight and keep you cooler. They also look stunning against the sandy background!