What to Wear on a Dubai Desert Safari
Clothes, shoes and a short packing list for morning and evening safaris — plus when to go — so you stay comfortable for dune bashing, sandboarding and BBQ dinner.
Quick answer
- Light, breathable clothes that cover shoulders and knees
- Closed shoes (trainers work well) for sandboarding and dune walks
- Sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen
- A light jacket or hoodie for winter evenings after sunset
- A scarf or buff if you want extra cover from blown sand
You do not need a special “safari outfit”. Dress for the heat of the day, then add a layer if you are on an evening trip in winter.
Morning vs evening — what changes
Pickup times on our Dubai private safaris.
| Morning safari | Evening safari | |
|---|---|---|
| Pickup | 7:30 to 8:00 AM | 3:00 to 3:30 PM |
| Length | About 3 hours | About 6 hours |
| Clothes tip | Light layers; sun protection for the dunes | Same base layers; add a jacket in winter for dinner |
| Food | Breakfast not included | Arabic coffee and dates, BBQ dinner (veg & non-veg), soft drinks |
Full side-by-side detail: morning vs evening desert safari. Book the hub at desert safari Dubai, or the shared evening safari from AED 200.
Best time for a Dubai desert safari
Pick the morning desert safari when you want cooler dunes and the afternoon free. Pick an evening safari when you want sunset, dune bashing, sandboarding, a camel ride and BBQ dinner in one outing.
Through the year: October to March is the cooler season in Dubai, so evenings after sunset can feel cool at camp — bring that light jacket. April to September is hotter; morning trips are often more comfortable, and evening trips still run with the full BBQ dinner programme.
Travelling with children? See desert safari Dubai with kids. Comparing private prices by group size? See private desert safari Dubai price.
Clothes by season
October to March (cooler season)
- Daytime: light shirt or long-sleeve linen/cotton, trousers or a long skirt you can sit in
- Evening: add a light jacket, hoodie or shawl for after sunset and BBQ dinner
- Closed shoes; optional sandals only for the camp if you change
April to September (hotter season)
- Loose, light colours; breathable fabric
- Sun hat and sunscreen; refill water (soft drinks are included on evening safaris)
- Still prefer closed shoes for sandboarding
Shoes, sandboarding and dune bashing
Closed shoes grip better on boards and soft sand than flip-flops. Keep loose scarves tucked away during dune bashing so nothing flaps in the car. If anyone is pregnant or has back, neck or heart concerns, tell us before the trip so the driver can keep the drive gentle.
Adding a self-drive Polaris buggy or a quad? Wear closed shoes and clothes you do not mind getting dusty. Details on the dune buggy Dubai page (Polaris buggies only).
What to pack (small bag)
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Phone / camera (and a strap if you sandboard)
- Light jacket in winter
- Any personal medication
- Cash only if you want camp extras; the safari price is confirmed when you book and pay
Hotel pickup is included on our Dubai safaris. You pay by card, bank transfer or PayPal when you book. Cancellation is free up to 48 hours before pickup for a full refund — see the cancellation policy.
Questions people ask
What should I wear on a Dubai desert safari?
Light, breathable clothes that cover your shoulders and knees, closed shoes, sunglasses and a hat. Add a light jacket for winter evenings after sunset.
Can I wear sandals?
Closed shoes are better for sandboarding and dune walks. You can bring sandals for the camp if you prefer to change.
Is the desert cold at night?
In winter (October to March) evenings cool after sunset, so bring a jacket for BBQ dinner. Summer evenings stay warm.
What is the best time for a desert safari in Dubai?
Morning for cooler dunes and an early finish; evening for sunset, dune bashing, sandboarding, camel ride and BBQ dinner. Compare on our morning vs evening guide.
Do I need special clothes for dune bashing?
No. Wear clothes you can sit belted in, tuck loose scarves in, and use closed shoes if you sandboard after the drive.
Book a safari next
Private Land Cruiser or Nissan Patrol options and a shared evening safari. Every evening safari includes BBQ dinner.
Enquire about a tour
Tell us your tour, date and guests, then your name and contact number. Email is optional. We'll get back to you shortly. Your booking is confirmed once payment is received.