What to wear in Dubai desert safari
One of the main questions is what to wear in a desert safari in Dubai that should not be a puzzle if you are planning a desert tour. However, it happens that travelers arrive in jeans that make them sweat looking at the sun and at night they freeze, or they wear shoes that get filled with sand as if they’re taking it for souvenirs. Let’s sort out that.
This 2026 Dubai desert safari clothing guide explains the details of the right and the wrong ways and also how to stay comfortable while still taking nice photos of yourself. You can consider it as your no-nonsense dress code for Dubai desert safari dress code.
Why Your Outfit Actually Matters
The desert is a trickster. It appears peaceful, yet it can go from very hot to quite cold at night, and it has enough powdery sand to cover your shoes. If you wear the wrong thing, your trip to the desert will be a sweaty, sandy mess.
What is the best cloth for a desert safari in Dubai? The answer is simple, you can do all those fun activities like dune bashing, camel riding, quad biking, and enjoying the camp without your outfit constantly interfering.
And since everyone is wondering the same thing so yes, you can wear comfortable clothes and still not offend the local culture. That is the sweet spot we are talking about.
The Simple, Smart Dubai Desert Safari Dress Code (2026 Edition)
The truth is, the Dubai desert safari dress code is casual, yet sensible. There is no need for fancy stuff. Simply wear something that shields you from the sun, is made of a breathable fabric, and does not retain sand.
For both men and women:
- Light, airy tops
- Loose cotton or linen trousers
- Breathable activewear
- Closed shoes for activities
- A layer for evening chill
It is a must that your outfit be in harmony with the desert: cool during the day, warm enough at night, and resistant to sand and wind.
1. Tops: Go light, long, and breathable
In case comfort is your priority, stay away from clingy fabrics. Polyester is something that the desert heat can easily mock.
Great selections:
- Pure cotton t-shirts
- Linen button downs
- Baggy long sleeve for sun protection
- Athletic UV tops
How come, these work to cool off the body when it is sweaty and prevent the skin from overheating. A straightforward top is what takes the desert safari outfit to the next level.
Do not wear heavy black tops if you do not want to feel like a solar panel.
2. Bottoms: Ditch jeans unless you’re suffering on purpose
Using jeans while in the desert is considered a mistake of beginners. The combination of sweat, sand, and thick denim is not a good one.
What are the best options?
- Light joggers
- Linen pants
- Cotton trousers
- Stretch leggings (for women)
Most of the desert tours will allow you to wear shorts, but they won’t save you from the sun or the hot quad bike seats. Usually, long pants are the most suitable clothing for desert safari.
3. Footwear: Closed shoes or regret later
Sneakers are much better than sandals. Always.
The sand is going to be hot, uneven, and will get in between your toes as if it has some kind of secret mission. You will be walking around dunes, getting into 4x4s, and maybe riding ATVs. So, closed shoes are just the right decision.
Some good choices are:
- Light sneakers
- Desert shoes
- Hiking trainers
Don’t:
- Use flip-flops
- Wear a fancy sandal
Use anything open and that is made of a thin material
4. Evening Layering: Yes, you need it
Many people believe that Dubai is always hot. The truth is, not really.
It can get quite chilly during nights, and this is particularly true in the winter season. A jacket, hoodie, or even a blanket will suffice. It really doesn’t matter what you use, as long as you have something with you. This little layer can really make the difference between a nice night and a fantastic one.
5. Accessories That Make Your Life Easier
These are optional but still play a more significant role than you might think:
- Glasses (sandstorms aren’t big… they’re just irritating)
- A hat or beanie for the sun
- A scarf or shemagh for the wind and dust
- Sunscreen. Trust me, you will need it
- Some small bag to hold your stuff
Among all, a shemagh is extremely beneficial. It is airy, nice in pictures, and when you are dune bashing, it prevents the sand from going into your face.
This is one of the greatest enhancements to any desert safari outfit.
6. What About Traditional Outfits?
Abayas, kanduras, and other similar clothes are good for you, but go for a lighter fabric. The desert is not concerned with tradition. It is concerned with the temperature. Loose fitting traditional wear is okay, but if the fabric is thick it will become a heat trap.
In case you want to wear traditional costumes for the photos, do it at the camp rather than in the dunes. Most of the time, they are uncomfortable and you cannot do activities while wearing them.
7. What Not to Wear (Trust Me, Don’t)
A few elements will always spoil your experience:
- Tight jeans
- Heavy boots
- High heels (yes, people do try)
- Leather jackets
- Completely synthetic fancy clothes
- Long dresses that trail in the sand
All of these either trap heat, get sand stuck in them, or make your movement difficult.
Additionally, refrain from wearing anything white if you are a bit particular. The sand will definitely leave a stain.
8. Special Tips for Quad Biking & Dune Buggy Rides
If you are going with ATVs or buggies, then your outfit is of even more importance.
Desert safari what to wear for rides:
- Fully closed shoes
- Long sleeves (sun + exhaust heat)
- Comfortable long pants
- If you have a pair of gloves, wear them
- A scarf to protect your face
Loose shawls, long flowy dresses, and dangling accessories can be unsafe around engines. So, wrap up tight, keep it simple, and enjoy the ride.
9. Suitable Clothing for Desert Safari in Different Seasons
Dubai never experiences cold weather, but the desert has a different story.
Winter (Nov–Feb)
Days are cool, while nights get colder.
Have layers with you. Hoodie, light jacket, maybe an extra pair of socks.
Summer (Jun–Sep)
This is the time when temperature raised to an extreme level.
Use only ultra-light breathable fabrics. Protecting yourself from the sun should be your first priority.
Spring & Autumn (Mar–May / Oct)
Nice weather.
The most convenient time to choose the best desert safari clothes in Dubai. Cotton tops and comfortable pants are just right.
10. Final Checklist: What to Wear in Dubai Desert Safari (2026 Ready)
Before you leave, quickly go through this list to make sure you are not making any beginner mistakes:
- A light cotton or linen shirt
- Loose pants or gym shorts
- Closed shoes
- Sunglasses
- A scarf to protect from the sand
- A hat or a cap
- A light jacket for later
- Very few pieces of jewelry
- Sunscreen
That is the perfect, safe, and comfortable desert safari outfit that will still be fashionable in 2026 and later.
If your mind was not very clear regarding what to wear during a desert safari in Dubai, now you already have a definite plan. Make sure it is a breathable, lightweight, protective, and comfortable outfit. Follow this Dubai safari clothing guide, and your day in the desert will go well, with style, and without any issues with the sand.
