What to wear in the Abu Dhabi Desert Safari?

To fully enjoy your journey, it’s crucial to dress appropriately for the desert’s varying conditions. Here’s a detailed guide on what to wear for your Abu Dhabi desert safari, ensuring you stay comfortable, protected, and stylish.

1. Lightweight and Breathable Clothing

Fabrics: The desert can be intensely hot during the day, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F).  These materials allow your skin to breathe and help in wicking away sweat.

Tops: Long-sleeved shirts are ideal for protecting your skin from the sun while keeping you cool. Choose light-colored shirts to reflect the sun’s rays and stay cooler.

Bottoms: Lightweight trousers or loose-fitting pants are preferable over shorts. They offer better protection against the sun and the rough desert terrain. If you prefer shorts, ensure they are of a modest length and made from breathable material.

 

2. Layering for Temperature Changes

While the desert is scorching during the day, temperatures can drop significantly in the evening. Bringing a light jacket or sweater is advisable to keep warm during the cooler nights.

Tip: A scarf or shawl can be a versatile accessory, providing additional warmth when needed and doubling as a head covering for sun protection.

3. Footwear

Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are essential for a desert safari. Sandals and flip-flops are not recommended as they don’t offer adequate protection against the hot sand, potential rough terrain, and insects.

Ideal Choices:

Trainers or Sneakers: Provide good support and protection.

Hiking Boots: Perfect for more adventurous activities like sandboarding or dune bashing.

4. Sun Protection

The desert sun can be relentless, so proper sun protection is a must.

Hats: A wide-brimmed hat offers excellent sun protection for your face, neck, and ears. Alternatively, a cap or a hat with a neck flap can also work.

Sunglasses: High-quality sunglasses with UV protection are essential to protect your eyes from the intense sun glare.

Sunscreen: Apply a high-SPF sunscreen on all exposed skin areas. Reapply frequently, especially if you’re sweating.

5. Head Covering

It protects against the sun, helps keep you cool, and can shield your face from sand and dust. The keffiyeh can be tied in various ways to suit your comfort and style.

6. Accessories

Bag: A small, lightweight backpack is handy for carrying essentials like water, sunscreen, and a camera. Opt for a bag with breathable fabric and padded straps for comfort.

Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial. Carry a reusable water bottle to ensure you have access to water throughout the safari.

Camera: Don’t forget a camera or a smartphone with a good camera to capture the stunning desert landscapes and memorable moments.

7. Modesty and Cultural Sensitivity

Abu Dhabi, like the rest of the UAE, is a conservative region. While comfort is key, it’s important to respect local customs by dressing modestly. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing.

8. Special Considerations for Activities

Dune Bashing: For this thrilling activity, secure, comfortable clothing is a must. Ensure your clothes are not too loose to avoid getting caught in the vehicle. A seatbelt-friendly outfit is ideal.

Camel Riding: Wear pants or long skirts to prevent chafing and to sit comfortably on the camel.

9. Jewelry and Valuables

It’s best to leave expensive jewelry and unnecessary valuables at your hotel. The desert environment can be harsh on delicate items, and losing them in the sand can be challenging.