One of the most important things to consider when preparing for your Dubai desert safari is what to wear, as your choice of clothing will greatly affect your comfort and enjoyment.
Starting from sun-protective clothing to proper shoes for walking on the sand: right choices will boost adventure.
Let’s talk about the must-have clothing, shoe, and accessory tips and cultural considerations that will prep you for one of the most unforgettable adventures – a Dubai desert safari.
Weather for your Dubai Desert Safari
Summer can get extreme in Dubai. You’ll experience temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius. Knowing what to wear in Dubai desert safari will keep you quite comfortable. Your best friends are light, breathable fabrics. Cotton and linen will keep you cool as it gets hot. Layering is advisable for early morning or evening safaris.
Summer Considerations
The sun shines bright when it is summer. That makes you want to think carefully about clothing. Long sleeves and long pants aren’t commonly worn in the warm sun, but they protect against UV light rays that could damage the skin and keep you cooler than sun exposure.
Winter Considerations
For instance, at nighttime, the temperature might drop to very low temperatures as it approaches winter. Even if it was warm during the day, after the sun has set, you may still be appreciative of a lightweight jacket or sweater to keep yourself warm and cozy.
With this knowledge, you can dress up suitably for your desert safari. You could take some thermals along if your desert safari is planned in the early morning hours.
Clothing tips for Dubai Desert Safari:
When considering what to wear for a Dubai desert safari, here are some guiding tips:
Breathable Fabrics: A very good light kind of cloth like cotton or linen. It should allow air circulation and give some form of wick-like ability so that it pulls the sweat away from the body. Shirts to be breathable, loose-fitting trousers.
Wear Loose-Fitting Clothes: In hot climates, tight clothes can become uncomfortable. A loose fitting dress or looser fitting pants allow air to pass through the garment and are generally more comfortable. Maxi dresses or wide-leg pants are a good option for those wanting to retain coolness while still carrying on with mobility.
Layer Up: Generally, it may get quite chilly in the evenings. You can pack a light cardigan or shawl that folds up in a small space when you need to grab it to layer up. If you are doing a morning safari, a lightweight hoodie might come in handy.
Dress modestly: While Dubai is liberal by other means, compared to other destinations in the region, it is still considered sensible to dress modestly. However, avoid exposing your skin too much. Make sure you put on clothes covering your shoulder area and knees, especially when visiting cultural sights.
Comfort is Key: You will be doing lots of things, from riding the camel and sliding on the sand. Wear relaxed clothes and avoid the kind that may hinder your movements. Stretchy clothes can make you.
Do Not Over-Accessorize: Simple clothing items are perfect. Try to avoid putting on something that might touch the gear or when riding the camel. Bling necklaces and other such things might get too flashy and annoy.
Pack Extra Clothes: For activities that will be multitudinous, consider packing an additional outfit. This ensures changing after engaging in physically intense activities like sandboarding or dune bashing.
Footwear for your Dubai Desert Safari
Choose the right footwear based on what to wear in Dubai desert safari. You are going to walk across sandy and rocky terrains. Therefore, it needs comfort and protection.
Closed-Toe Shoes: Sturdy shoes with closed toes are the best as your feet will be secured from getting hot sand or other sharp materials in it. Sneakers or light hikers are a great choice as they will help you with balance and support for most activities.
Absolutely No High Heels: High-heeled shoes like stilettos have no place here. They make walking on sand cumbersome and discomforting. So, save them for a day at the city or dinner at some posh restaurant.
Sandals with Straps: If you enjoy sandals, remember to bring them with straps on them for securing to your feet. This will avoid slipping off your sandals whenever you are walking. Ensure they are comfortable so you can wear them all day long.
Take More Footwear: If you feel like switching activities, it is good to bring an extra flip-flop or light sandal for resting time at camp. This will enable one to easily change between activity and rest.
Consider the Activities: If you feel that you will be doing a lot of walking or doing high-energy activities, opt for footwear that can hold its own. Avoid something too flimsy.
Accessories for Your Dubai Desert Safari
Accessories make your desert safari so much more exciting. As you think about what to wear during the Dubai desert safari, remember the following:
Hats and Sunglasses: A wide-brimmed hat is necessary as it provides sun protection. You can also use sunglasses with UV protection to protect your eyes against such harsh sunlight. Choose a hat that can stay on your head during windy conditions.
Sunscreen: Apply high SPF sunscreen on your body before entering the city and continue applying it throughout the day. Sunscreen will save your skin from the effects of the sun. Suggest using a water-resistant sunscreen while going out since you may sweat a lot.
Light Scarf: The light scarf can be used in different ways as well. It might protect your neck from the sun, it could also cover your face in case of sandstorms. So, make sure to choose a breathable fabric scarf.
Wet Wipes and Sanitizers: This is helpful in washing your hands after lots of activities and before meals. It’s good practice to always remember your hygiene in traveling.
Water Bottle: Beat the heat while keeping hydrated. Pack a refillable water bottle to use during your trip. Although most tour operators offer water, it is always convenient to have your own so you never go without one.
Camera or Smartphone: Capture breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable moments. Do not forget to pack spare batteries or a portable charger so that you could take as many pictures as you want without running out of charge.
Small Backpack or Daypack: A light backpack can be handy for carrying basic essentials without being too cumbersome. Try to look for one that’s quite comfortable to wear for long periods.
Cultural Sensitivity in Dubai
Dubai is culturally mixed, but one always needs to be abreast with the natives’ cultures. To know what to wear in Dubai desert safari, one needs to know that this region is strictly modest. Even though tourists can wear casual clothing, it is respectful to stay away from things that could be considered offensive.
Cultural Dress Code: Avoid dressing too tight or revealingly. Men should not don insulting dresses. Swimwear is acceptable in beach environments but surely not in any other public places. One should cover the shoulder and avoid short dress going above the knee, especially in urban regions.
Show respect to local customs: When visiting conventional areas and cultural sites, you should respect the local culture. This sometimes requires covering the shoulders and knees. Knowing such expectations shows respect to local conventions.
Ask Questions: If you do not understand, do not be afraid to ask your tour guide what you can and cannot do. He or she will be able to guide you depending on how that culture is interpreted at the moment. It’s always better to err on the side of safety rather than assume.
Mind the Company You’re Keeping: Mind your surroundings. What may be acceptable to you might not be to a person from another culture.
Go Neutral: Bright colors are fun sometimes, but sometimes you need more neutral tones to blend in, especially where a culture would be highly sensitive to such an exposure.
Evening Considerations for Your Safari
If your safari is at night, your Dubai desert safari clothing will be a little different. As you can imagine, nighttime temperatures can cool off quickly so layers are important.
Light layers: Pack a lightweight sweater or fleece. This is important because desert nights can be very cool. A lightweight pashmina or shawl can easily be stashed in a pocket when not needed.
Loose Clothing: You’ll likely sit on mats to have dinner and entertain. Wear clothes in which you can sit on the floor with comfort. Avoid tight clothes that may limit movement.
Avoid Skirts: It’s best to use trousers or culottes in the evening of any activity. It’s comfort and easy to sit in. If in case you have to wear a skirt, make sure that it’s not too short to sit in.
Consider Activities: If you are going to participate in evening activities, your attire should facilitate ease of movement. The breathable fabrics are just as necessary even at cooler temperatures.
Bring a Change of Clothes: If you’re going to be involved in activities that might get you dirty, bring a change of clothes for the evening portion.
Conclusion
In summary, knowing what to wear in Dubai desert safari is key to the enjoyment of your adventure. Light, comfortable, breathable fabrics are ideal. Bring along closed-toe shoes for comfort and protection. Accessories for sun protection are also important, and not forgetting one’s local culture.
Use these tips, and you’ll have the perfect experience for your desert safari in Dubai. Each minute of this wonder will pass in front of you and create memories you’ll never forget in the wonderfully pretty desert landscape!