Safeway Tourism LLC Packages
The single most common mistake first-time visitors make is dressing for the city, not the desert — and the two need genuinely different choices.
Loose, breathable clothing beats anything tight. Cotton or linen in light colors handles both the heat and the sand better than synthetic fabrics, which trap heat and cling once sand gets into the mix (and it will). Avoid all-white if you’re precious about it — sand and dust from dune bashing tend to leave a mark.
Closed-toe shoes, not sandals. This is the one people get wrong most often. Sandals and flip-flops let sand in constantly and offer no support during dune bashing or sandboarding. Trainers or closed sports shoes are the right call — you’ll be glad of them the moment you step out for the camel photo stop or walk up the sandboarding dune.
A layer for after dark. Desert temperatures drop noticeably once the sun sets, even in the warmer months — a light jacket, scarf, or shawl makes the evening entertainment and dinner far more comfortable, and it’s genuinely needed on an overnight safari once the night gets properly cool.
Sun protection for morning and daytime safaris. A hat and sunglasses matter more on the morning safari than the evening one, simply because you’re outdoors in direct sun for longer. Sunscreen is worth applying before pickup, not after arrival.
Cultural consideration, not a strict dress code. Dubai’s desert camps aren’t formal about dress, but modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) is generally appreciated, particularly for the cultural entertainment and photo moments at camp. This isn’t enforced, but it fits the setting better than beachwear.
What to leave at the hotel: valuables you don’t want covered in fine desert dust, anything you’d be upset to lose in a dune bashing 4×4 (loose jewelry, unsecured phones), and heels of any kind.
Quick packing list:
- Closed-toe shoes
- Loose, breathable clothing
- Light jacket or shawl for after sunset
- Hat and sunglasses (especially for morning safaris)
- Sunscreen
- A phone strap or secure pocket for photos during dune bashing
See our full Evening Desert Safari or Family Desert Safari pages for what’s included alongside what to bring yourself.
