Your Complete Guide to Staying Comfortable, Stylish & Safe
Planning a camel ride in Dubai is one of the most authentic and memorable experiences in the UAE. But before you head into the dunes, one question comes up for almost every traveler: What should I wear for a camel ride in the desert?
The right outfit not only keeps you comfortable in the desert heat but also makes your photos look stunning and helps you enjoy every moment of the ride.
In this guide, we’ll cover the complete camel ride dress code, including footwear, accessories, and cultural tips, so you’re perfectly prepared for your desert safari adventure.
☀️ Understanding the Desert Climate
Dubai’s desert climate can be hot during the day and cool in the evening, creating two very different experiences within a single tour. During the day, temperatures can rise quickly under the strong Arabian sun, making light and breathable clothing essential to stay comfortable. As the sun sets, the heat fades, and the desert air becomes pleasantly cool — sometimes even chilly during the winter months. This temperature contrast is part of what makes desert excursions so unique, offering both the warmth of daylight adventures and the calm, refreshing breeze of a desert night.
- Morning tours: Expect mild temperatures, soft light, and cooler air — perfect for relaxed clothing.
- Afternoon or evening rides: Temperatures rise quickly, so breathable fabrics are key. After sunset, it can get breezy, so a light jacket helps.
Tip: Always check the weather before your tour. Even a small temperature difference can affect what you should wear on your desert safari.
👕 Ideal Clothing for a Camel Ride
- Light, Breathable Fabrics
Choose cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking materials to stay cool and comfortable. Avoid thick or synthetic fabrics that trap heat and sweat.
Loose-fitting clothes are ideal — they allow airflow and make it easier to move when getting on and off the camel.
Recommended for both men and women:
- Lightweight T-shirts or long-sleeve tops
- Loose cotton pants or linen trousers
- Long skirts (for women who prefer modest clothing)
- Dress Modestly and Respect Local Culture
While Dubai is modern and tourist-friendly, it’s still respectful to dress modestly, especially in desert areas.
Avoid revealing clothing, very short shorts, or sleeveless tops. Light long sleeves and full-length pants not only show respect but also protect your skin from the sun.
Camel ride dress code tip:
Choose neutral or earth tones like beige, olive, or white — they reflect sunlight and look natural in photos against the desert landscape.
- Add a Light Jacket or Shawl
If your tour is during sunrise or sunset, carry a light jacket, shawl, or scarf. The desert can get surprisingly chilly after dark, especially during winter months (November–February).
A scarf also doubles as sun protection for your neck or face if the wind picks up.
🥿 Best Footwear for Desert Activities
Comfort and safety matter most when it comes to footwear, especially in the desert where the terrain can shift beneath your feet. For camel rides and dune walks, closed-toe shoes such as lightweight sneakers or trekking shoes are highly recommended—they protect your feet from hot sand, small rocks, and potential scrapes while mounting or dismounting the camel. Avoid open sandals or flip-flops, as they can easily fill with sand and make walking uncomfortable. The right footwear ensures stability, safety, and a more enjoyable desert adventure from start to finish.
Best options:
- Sports shoes or trainers with good grip
- Lightweight hiking shoes or desert boots
Avoid:
- Sandals or flip-flops — they can slip off and let hot sand in
- High heels or dress shoes — not suitable for uneven desert terrain
If your tour includes sandboarding or dune bashing, closed shoes will protect your feet better and make it easier to move around.
🕶️ Accessories You Should Bring
A few smart accessories can make your desert experience more enjoyable and photogenic:
- 🕶️ Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from bright sunlight and blowing sand.
- 🧢 Hat or cap: Wide-brimmed hats give extra shade for your face and neck.
- 🧴 Sunscreen: Apply before leaving your hotel — the desert sun is intense even in winter.
- 📷 Scarf or shemagh: Looks great in photos and offers practical protection from sand and heat.
- 💧 Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the trip.
👗 For Women: Balance Style and Comfort
Many women enjoy wearing flowy maxi dresses, kaftans, or lightweight abayas for their camel ride, as they look elegant and photograph beautifully against the golden dunes. That’s perfectly fine — just make sure the fabric isn’t too long or heavy, since it can get tangled while mounting or dismounting the camel. If your experience includes dune bashing, quad biking, or sandboarding, consider wearing leggings or light pants underneath for better movement and comfort. Breathable cotton or linen fabrics are ideal to stay cool while still looking stylish in every shot.
👕 For Men: Smart Casual Desert Look
Men can keep it simple and practical with light trousers, chinos, or shorts paired with a breathable cotton or linen shirt. A hat or cap and sunglasses not only complete the desert look but also provide essential sun protection. Stick to light colors like beige, white, or khaki to reflect heat and stay comfortable throughout the ride. Avoid dark shades such as black or navy, as they tend to absorb sunlight and make the heat feel more intense.
If you’re joining a sunset desert safari, a light jacket or long-sleeve shirt adds extra comfort as the temperature drops.
📸 Bonus Tip: Dress for the Photos
Let’s be honest, it is as much about the experience as it is about capturing memorie,s so choose light, natural colors like white, beige, or pastel shades — they contrast beautifully against the red or golden dunes.
Avoid logos or bright neon colors that distract from the desert’s natural tones.
If you’re riding at Lahbab Red Dunes, earthy tones (browns, creams, olive green) look especially good in pictures.
🚙 Preparing for Your Desert Safari
If your camel ride is part of a full desert safari, you’re in for an even richer experience that goes beyond just the ride. Along with your scenic camel trek, you’ll get to enjoy thrilling dune bashing in a 4×4, adventurous sandboarding down golden slopes, and a relaxing evening at a Bedouin-style camp. There, you can savor a delicious BBQ dinner, enjoy traditional performances like Tanoura and belly dance, and immerse yourself in authentic Arabian hospitality — making it a perfect blend of excitement, culture, and relaxation.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Bring a small backpack for personal items.
- Avoid heavy accessories or jewelry — they can get lost in the sand.
- Carry a change of clothes if your package includes dinner or evening entertainment.
🏜️ Final Thoughts
Dressing right for your camel ride in Dubai makes a big difference in your comfort, safety, and overall experience.
Stick to breathable, modest clothing, closed shoes, and light layers — and don’t forget your hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen!
Whether you’re exploring the soft golden dunes of Al Avir or the striking red sands of Lahbab, being prepared will let you focus on what truly matters — the calm rhythm of your camel’s footsteps and the beauty of the desert all around you.