What to Wear on a Desert Safari in Dubai
Sand in your shoes, wind in your scarf and a sunset you'll remember. What to wear on a desert safari so you're comfortable from the dunes to dinner.
Almost every visitor to Dubai books a desert safari, and almost everyone asks the same question the night before: what to wear on a desert safari? We spend a lot of time in the desert for our shoots, so here is what actually works, from the bumpy drive over the dunes to dinner under the stars.
What to wear on a desert safari: the short answer
Loose, light layers that cover your arms and legs, shoes you can shake sand out of, a scarf, and something warm for after sunset in the cooler months. That's it.
Cover up, but keep it loose
It sounds strange to wear more in the desert, but long, loose clothes protect you from the sun and the sand, which can sting when the wind picks up. Wide trousers and a light long-sleeved top are far more comfortable than shorts and a vest, and you won't come home with sunburnt shoulders.
Avoid anything tight. You'll be climbing into 4x4s, sitting on cushions at the camp and maybe trying sandboarding. Clothes that move with you make all of it easier.
What men should wear
A polo or a light shirt and relaxed trousers. If it is a warm afternoon and you really want shorts, choose a longer pair, but trousers keep the sand and sun off much better. Many camps also host families, so modest clothing (like our co ord sets) is the comfortable choice socially as well.
Colours that work in the dunes
Lighter colours stay cooler in the sun, and warm neutrals like sand, ivory and olive look incredible in sunset photos. Very dark clothes get hot. Pure white shows every bit of dust from the dune drive.
Shoes: think about the sand
Sand gets everywhere. Sandals or slip-on shoes you can take off easily are the most practical, because you'll probably want to walk barefoot on the dunes anyway. Avoid heels completely, and anything you'd be upset to fill with sand.
Don't forget a scarf
A light scarf is the most useful thing you can bring. It keeps sand out of your face during the dune drive, covers your shoulders if the camp has a cultural show, and keeps you warm in the evening.
One good scarf does three jobs in the desert. Never leave without one.
Evenings get cold in winter
From roughly November to March, the desert cools down fast once the sun sets. Bring a light jacket or knit, especially if you're staying for dinner. In summer, evenings stay warm, so a light layer is enough.
Your desert safari checklist
- Loose long trousers or a long skirt
- A light top with sleeves
- Sandals or easy slip-on shoes
- A scarf
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- A warm layer between November and March
Questions people ask
Can I wear shorts on a desert safari?
You can, but long trousers are more comfortable. They protect your legs from the sun and the sand.
Is there a dress code at desert camps?
Most camps don't have a strict code, but they're often family places, so modest, covering clothes are the respectful and comfortable choice.
Should I wear white on a desert safari?
It looks lovely in photos but shows dust easily. Sand, ivory or soft colours give you the same look with less worry.
