Desert Safari Clothing Abu Dhabi
Desert Safari Clothing Abu Dhabi Practical Guide
Getting your desert safari clothing Abu Dhabi choices right is simpler than people think — there is no strict dress code — but showing up in the wrong outfit can turn a fun afternoon into an uncomfortable one. Here is what actually works, based on what our guests wear every day.
Desert Safari Clothing Abu Dhabi Summers vs Winters
In summer (May to September), afternoon desert temperatures reach 45°C, so think loose, light-coloured and breathable — and book a morning or evening trip rather than a midday one. Between October and April, days are mild and comfortable, but evenings cool down fast after sunset, so that light layer matters most on evening and overnight trips. Our best time to visit guide breaks the seasons down month by month.
What to Wear for Each Activity
- Dune bashing: comfortable clothes with nothing loose hanging off you — the 4x4 Land Cruiser moves a lot
- Camel riding: trousers or long shorts beat short ones against the saddle
- Quad biking and dune buggies: closed shoes are a must, and tie back long hair
- Henna and camp time: anything relaxed works; sleeves you can roll up make henna easier
What Not to Wear
Skip white or dry-clean-only outfits (sand and BBQ smoke travel), heavy jeans in summer, brand-new white trainers, and long loose scarves during quad biking. Leave valuables at the hotel — phones and sunglasses slide around during dune bashing, and the dunes near Al Khatim keep what they catch.
The Short Answer
Light, breathable, comfortable clothes you do not mind getting a little sandy — plus closed shoes for dune bashing and sandboarding, and a light layer for the evening.
Tops & Bottoms
- Loose cotton t-shirts or breathable fabrics — avoid anything too tight or restrictive for dune bashing
- Trousers or long shorts rather than very short shorts, since sand kicks up during activities
- Modest coverage is appreciated at the desert camp out of respect for local culture, though nothing is enforced
Footwear
Closed, comfortable shoes (trainers or hiking-style shoes) are best for getting in and out of the 4x4 and for sandboarding. Flip-flops are fine once you are settled at camp, but many guests find sand gets uncomfortably hot on bare feet during the day.
Evening & Overnight Safaris
Bring a light jacket or shawl if you are booking an Evening Desert Safari or our Overnight Desert Safari — desert temperatures drop noticeably after sunset, even in summer.
Other Things Worth Packing
- Sunglasses and a cap or scarf for sun and windblown sand
- A phone or camera for sunset and sunrise photos
- A small bag you can keep between your feet during dune bashing, since loose items shift around
Not sure which package suits your plans yet? Compare timings and inclusions on our packages page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a strict dress code for a desert safari?
No strict dress code exists, but light, breathable clothing and closed shoes are strongly recommended for comfort during activities.
Do I need a jacket for an evening desert safari?
Yes, a light jacket or shawl is recommended since desert temperatures drop noticeably after sunset.
Can I wear shorts on a desert safari?
Yes, but longer shorts or light trousers are more comfortable — sand kicks up during dune bashing, sandboarding and camel riding.
What should I wear on a desert safari in summer?
Loose, light-coloured breathable clothing, sunglasses and a cap. Summer afternoons reach 45°C, so morning or evening safaris are far more comfortable.
What shoes are best for sandboarding and dune activities?
Closed trainers or hiking-style shoes are best. Flip-flops are fine at camp but poor for climbing dunes or riding boards.