What to Pack for a Desert Safari in Dubai – Complete Traveler’s Checklist

From clothes to cameras, here’s everything you need for a comfortable desert adventure. The ultimate packing checklist from the experts at Fun Tours Dubai.
Desert safari dubai city tours (135)

Be ready for the dunes, the sunset, and the surprises the desert brings.


🌅 Introduction

You’ve booked your Dubai desert safari — now comes the big question: what should I pack?
Whether you’re heading for a thrilling dune buggy ride or a romantic sunset dinner in the desert, packing smart ensures comfort, safety, and unforgettable memories.

After 20+ years of guiding travelers, Fun Tours Dubai has crafted this ultimate desert safari packing checklist — trusted by thousands of adventurers who’ve explored the dunes with us.


👕 1. Clothing – Dress Smart, Light & Respectful

Dubai’s desert is warm by day and cool at night.
Choose light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen for the daytime and pack a light jacket or shawl for the evening breeze.

For Men: T-shirts, loose trousers, or shorts
For Women: Long skirts or trousers, tops with sleeves (avoid low-cut)
For Evening Safaris: Bring a scarf or cardigan — temperatures drop fast after sunset.

🟢 Pro Tip: Avoid tight clothes or heavy materials — sand can cling to them!


🧢 2. Footwear – Comfort Over Style

You’ll walk on sand, step in and out of vehicles, and might even climb dunes.
Forget heels or fancy shoes — closed-toe sandals or sneakers work best.

If you’re planning camel rides or quad biking, covered shoes are safer.


🕶️ 3. Essentials You Shouldn’t Forget

✔️ Sunglasses (with UV protection)
✔️ Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
✔️ Hat or cap
✔️ Reusable water bottle
✔️ Lip balm & moisturizer (the desert air is dry!)
✔️ Wet wipes or tissues

🟢 Optional: A small backpack or drawstring bag to keep things sand-free.


📸 4. Camera & Tech Tips

The desert light changes quickly — sunrise and sunset are the best for photos.
Bring a camera or fully charged smartphone, plus:

  • Extra battery or power bank
  • Tripod (for night or group shots)
  • Waterproof case (for sand protection)

📸 Don’t forget to clean lenses often — fine desert sand can blur photos fast.


💄 5. Optional Add-Ons for Comfort

  • Light snacks (especially for kids)
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Small towel or scarf
  • Portable fan or cooling wipes

For private or VIP safaris, you can even bring a change of clothes if you plan a photoshoot — our Flying Dress Desert Experience is perfect for this!


🚫 6. What NOT to Bring

❌ Heavy bags or laptops
❌ Expensive jewelry
❌ Alcohol or tobacco products (not allowed in camps)
❌ Drones (restricted in many desert areas)

Keep it light and simple — the desert has a way of reminding you that less is more.


🌙 7. Bonus: Packing by Safari Type

Safari TypeRecommended Extras
Morning SafariSunglasses, cap, sunscreen, camera
Evening SafariJacket, power bank, wet wipes
Overnight SafariToothbrush, travel pillow, comfy clothes
Dune Buggy AdventureClosed shoes, gloves, GoPro
VIP Private DinnerSmart-casual wear, perfume, camera tripod

Final Tip – Travel Prepared, Not Packed

You don’t need to bring much — just what helps you stay comfortable, protected, and camera-ready.
The desert gives back more than it takes, and a little preparation ensures you enjoy every golden moment.

💬 Ready to explore?
Evening Desert Safari Dubai | Morning Desert Safari | Overnight Desert Safari


🧭 Related Reads


🏜️ About Fun Tours Dubai

Over two decades, we’ve grown from a small desert safari team into one of Dubai’s most trusted tour operators. With 160,000+ tours completed and 30,000+ five-star reviews, our story is written by travelers who’ve explored the UAE with us. What drives us isn’t just the number of tours, but the moments we help create — laughter under desert skies, joy on city adventures, and memories that last a lifetime.

🌟 24,859+ verified reviews on GetYourGuide proudly reflect the trust and happiness of our guests.

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