A desert safari is the highlight of most Dubai trips — but dressing right for the desert matters. Between dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and an evening of dinner and shows, the right outfit makes the difference between a great day and an uncomfortable one. Here’s exactly what to wear, what to bring, and what to leave at the hotel.
The Short Answer
Light, breathable clothes, closed-toe shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Dress in layers from October to March, when desert evenings get cool. Avoid white, avoid heels, and avoid anything you’d hate to get sandy — because sand gets everywhere.
Know what to pack? Choose your safari and send us a booking request.
What Women Should Wear
Loose, breathable fabrics work best — cotton or linen tops with comfortable trousers or long shorts. A maxi dress is fine for photos at the camp but impractical for dune bashing and sandboarding; if you wear one, bring shorts to change into. Tie long hair back — wind and sand quickly tangle loose hair. Skip heavy makeup; the sand and wind won’t be kind to it. Flying-dress photoshoots are popular in Dubai, but they are not included in our safari packages; if you arrange one separately, keep the flowing dress for photos rather than the activities.
What Men Should Wear
A breathable t-shirt or polo with shorts or light trousers. Closed shoes — sneakers or sturdy sandals with straps. Arabic dress photography is part of our evening camp experience, so you can try traditional attire for photos at the camp. Bring a cap if you’re sensitive to sun.
What Kids Should Wear
Comfortable play clothes they can move in, plus closed shoes — kids will want to run on the dunes. Pack a spare set of clothes; between sandboarding and the sand itself, they’ll need it. A light jacket for the evening, and don’t forget their sunglasses.
Respectful Clothing in the UAE
The UAE welcomes visitors and the desert camp is relaxed, but modest clothing is appreciated. Covering your shoulders and knees is a considerate choice, especially at the camp, and swimwear is best left at the hotel.
Footwear: What Works and What Doesn’t
Closed-toe shoes win. Sneakers are ideal — they stay on during dune bashing, protect your feet on hot sand, and handle the camp terrain. Sport sandals with heel straps are the backup option. What doesn’t work: flip-flops (they can slip off easily and are uncomfortable on soft sand), high heels (you’ll sink into the sand), and brand-new white sneakers (they won’t stay white). Closed shoes matter even more if you add a quad bike ride or a dune buggy ride.
Seasonal Guide: Summer vs Winter
October to March (cooler season): Daytime is pleasant but desert evenings drop noticeably after sunset. Bring a light jacket or shawl for the camp dinner and drive back. This is the most comfortable safari season overall.
April to September (hot season): Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics are essential. Evening safaris depart in the late afternoon, after the hottest part of the day, while the Morning Safari runs in the cooler early hours. A hat and extra water help.
What NOT to Wear
- All-white outfits — light colours show dust and sand more easily.
- Flowing dresses or skirts during activities — fine for camp photos, terrible for dune bashing.
- Expensive jewelry or watches — sand is abrasive and things get lost in the dunes.
- Heavy perfumes or strongly scented lotions — strong scents may be unsuitable outdoors in the heat.
What to Bring (Beyond Clothes)
Sunscreen (reapply before the camp), UV400 sunglasses, a scarf or shemagh (useful against wind and sun), a small backpack for layers, and your phone or camera — the sunset over the dunes is the photo you’ll show everyone back home. Leave valuables and large bags at the hotel. If you wear contact lenses, fine sand can irritate your eyes, so consider glasses or bring eye drops, and keep a scarf or light face covering handy for dusty moments during dune bashing.
FAQs
Q: Do I need special clothes for dune bashing?
A: No special gear needed — just avoid loose, flowing items and wear closed shoes.
Q: Can I wear shorts on a desert safari?
A: Yes, shorts are fine for both men and women. Longer shorts or light trousers offer more sun protection.
Q: Should I bring a jacket?
A: From October to March, yes — desert evenings cool down fast after sunset. In summer, you won’t need one.
Q: Is there a dress code at the desert camp?
A: No formal dress code. The camp is relaxed — dinner and shows are enjoyed in whatever you wore for the safari.
More questions about pickup, booking or payment? See our desert safari FAQs.
Ready for the Desert?
Now that you know what to wear, pick your safari. Our Evening Desert Safari (AED 75) is the full experience with dinner and shows, the Morning Desert Safari is perfect for families and layovers, and the VIP Desert Safari (AED 110) upgrades your evening with premium seating and dining. If you would like your own vehicle and timing, see our Private Desert Safari.