Gear Up for the
Your outfit can make or break your safari. We dive deep into the technical and practical details of desert clothing—fabrics, fits, and footwear.
See Gear ChecklistTechnical & Practical
Beyond the Fashion
While looking good is important, desert environments are harsh. High UV, abrasive sand, and temperature fluctuations demand smart clothing choices. This guide focuses on the 'Why' behind the wear.
The desert sun doesn't just heat you; it dehydrates you. The right fabric wicks sweat away and reflects UV rays. The right shoe stops 500g of sand from entering your sock. These details matter.
We recommend loose-fitting, light-colored natural fibers. Why? Because tight clothes trap sweat, and dark clothes absorb heat. Synthetic polyester can become a sauna suit in July. Linen and cotton are the champions of the desert.
Linen
The ultimate desert fabric. Highly breathable, dries fast.
Cotton
Great for absorption but dries slowly. Good for dry heat.
Synthetics
Avoid unless it is specialized hiking gear (moisture-wicking).
Scarves
The Shemagh/Ghutra is functional protection against wind/sand.
We equip you for adventure
We provide the experience, but you provide the clothing. We educate our guests so they don't arrive in high heels for a hiking trip. Proper clothing means you focus on the fun, not your blisters.
Pre-trip advice via WhatsApp
Emergency shawls available in cars
First aid for blisters
Helping tie headscarves
Respecting cultural norms
Popular Experiences
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The Shemagh Guide
How to use the traditional headscarf.
Protection
It protects head from sun and face from blowing sand.
Cooling
Dipping it in water and wrapping it around your neck is a literal life-saver in August.
Styling
Our guides can help you tie it in the traditional Emirati style for photos.
Buying
Buy one at the first pitstop (AED 10-20) as a souvenir. It's useful immediately.
Colors
Red/White is Saudi/Jordanian style, White is Gulf/Emirati formal. Any color works for tourists.
The Footwear Debate
Sandals vs Shoes: The final word.
Sandals
Pros: Cool, easy to shake sand out. Cons: Hot sand burns toes, no ankle support.
If you are just doing a dinner safari, sandals are perfect. Just kick them off. But if you are sandboarding, they are terrible. You have no control and might cut your toe on the board strap.
Closed Shoes
Pros: Protection, stability for sports. Cons: Once sand gets in, it stays in.
- Essential for Quad Biking (Safety requirement)
- Best for Sandboarding control
- Protect against thorny shrubs
- Sand will fill your socks (Unavoidable)
- Mesh trainers let sand in faster
- Canvas shoes are a good middle ground
The Verdict
The pro move is to wear trainers for the activities, and keep flip-flops in your bag for the camp.
- Start with shoes for the drive/sports
- Switch to sandals for dinner
- Your feet will thank you
- Shake out shoes before getting in car
- Socks are a sand-magnet, bring spares
- Don't wear your most expensive white Jordans
Packed and ready?
Book SafariEverything you need
to know
We’ve curated answers to the most common questions to ensure your journey is seamless from the moment you book.
White, Beige, or bright contrast colors (Red/Blue). White reflects heat but gets dirty. Black absorbs heat—avoid it in summer daytimes.
Read detailed answerAny sunglasses with UV protection work. However, cheap ones are better because sand can scratch expensive lenses. Wrap-around styles keep sand out of your eyes.
Read detailed answerKeep it minimal. Stud earrings are fine. Dangly earrings can snag. Loose rings can slip off in the sand (and you will NEVER find them).
Read detailed answerA safari hat (wide brim with chin strap) is great for sun. A scarf (shemagh) is great for versatility (sun + dust + cooling). We prefer the scarf for the authentic feel.
Read detailed answerLoose linen trousers are the holy grail. They protect legs from sun and sand friction but stay cool. Shorts are fine but offer less protection.
Read detailed answer.jpeg)
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