Wearing the right outfit for sandboarding in Dubai can significantly enhance your comfort, performance, and safety on the dunes. Since sandboarding involves sliding down steep, sun-soaked dunes in the open desert, choosing breathable, sand-resistant, and movement-friendly clothing is essential for a smooth and enjoyable ride.
Why Does Your Clothing Matter for Sandboarding?
Sandboarding requires full-body balance, flexibility, and contact with sand, so your outfit must protect you from heat, friction, and sun exposure. Unlike snowboarding, sandboarding doesn’t require heavy gear — but the intense desert environment demands thoughtful clothing choices that blend comfort and practicality.
Wearing proper attire helps you:
- Stay cool and prevent heat exhaustion in the Dubai desert.
- Avoid sand burns or scratches during falls or slides.
- Keep sand out of shoes and clothes.
- Move freely while maintaining stability on the board.
What Is the Ideal Outfit for Sandboarding?
The best clothing for sandboarding in Dubai should be light, protective, and flexible. You’ll want to strike a balance between staying cool and shielding your skin from the blazing desert sun.
Recommended outfit checklist:
- Top: Lightweight, moisture-wicking long-sleeve T-shirt or sports shirt.
- Bottoms: Comfortable athletic pants, leggings, or track trousers. Avoid shorts.
- Shoes: Closed-toe sneakers or sport shoes with firm grip.
- Headwear: Cap, hat, or scarf to protect from sun.
- Accessories: Sunglasses with UV protection and sunscreen.
This outfit allows smooth movement, shields you from the sun, and prevents skin irritation during repeated climbs on the dunes.
What Should You Avoid Wearing During Sandboarding?
Some clothing items can make sandboarding uncomfortable or even unsafe. Loose, heavy, or open clothing traps sand or hinders movement.
Avoid wearing:
- Jeans (too stiff and hot)
- Shorts (exposes skin to hot sand)
- Slippers or flip-flops (sand will burn and enter easily)
- Long dresses or abayas (restrict leg movement)
- Jewelry and watches (can scratch or collect sand)
Wearing the wrong outfit may lead to heat discomfort or friction burns while sliding down.
Do You Need Special Gear for Sandboarding?
No specialized gear is required, but protective accessories make the experience safer and more enjoyable. Tour operators, like Arabian Desert Safari Dubai, usually provide essential equipment at the site.
Provided or recommended safety gear includes:
- Helmet: Optional but advisable for beginners.
- Goggles: Protects from blowing sand and glare.
- Knee & elbow pads: For cushioning during falls.
- Gloves: Useful for grip and hand protection during climbs.
These additions enhance your safety and prevent discomfort during long sandboarding sessions.
Does Clothing Differ for Morning and Evening Sandboarding?
Yes, your outfit should adapt to the time of day because desert temperatures fluctuate dramatically.
| Time/Season | Recommended Clothing | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Morning Tour | Long-sleeve shirt + pants | Mild breeze, less heat but fine sand |
| Midday Tour | Loose cotton + hat + sunscreen | Strong UV rays, hot sand |
| Evening Tour | Breathable layers | Cooler wind and sunset lighting |
| Winter Season | Windbreaker or hoodie | Cold desert evenings |
| Summer Season | Light cotton clothing | Extreme heat during midday |
Adjusting your outfit ensures comfort and protection throughout the changing desert climate.
Can You Sandboard Barefoot?
No, you should never sandboard barefoot. The sand in Dubai’s desert can reach 60°C or higher during peak sun hours, causing burns or blisters. Closed-toe shoes provide necessary grip for climbing dunes and prevent foot injuries from hidden stones or hot surfaces.
Choose lightweight sneakers or athletic shoes that are easy to shake sand out of afterward.
What Should Women Wear for Sandboarding?
Women can wear the same athletic, modest, and comfortable clothing as men. Since sandboarding involves movement and balance, clothing should be flexible and secure.
Recommended for women:
- Stretchable sports leggings or track pants.
- Long-sleeve sports top or breathable tunic.
- Securely tucked hijab or sports headscarf (if applicable).
- Avoid skirts, dresses, or loose scarves.
Modest yet functional clothing keeps you comfortable, culturally appropriate, and ready for action.
Should You Bring Extra Clothes After Sandboarding?
Yes. Since sandboarding involves sitting or sliding on the dunes, sand will likely get into your clothes and shoes. Carrying a small bag with essentials can make cleanup easier afterward.
Pack these extras:
- Clean T-shirt or top.
- Wet wipes or small towel.
- Sunscreen and water bottle.
- Plastic bag for sandy clothes.
- Extra pair of socks.
You can freshen up at camp facilities before returning from the tour.
Are Helmets and Goggles Provided by the Operator?
Yes, licensed desert tour operators like Arabian Desert Safari Dubai provide helmets and goggles for free in most sandboarding sessions. These safety measures comply with Dubai Tourism guidelines for recreational desert sports.
This equipment not only protects you from flying sand but also improves visibility during strong winds — especially in Lahbab Desert, where dunes are higher and windier.
Can You Wear Traditional or Cultural Clothing for Sandboarding?
While traditional attire is respected in Dubai, it’s not practical for sandboarding. Loose robes, abayas, or kanduras can tangle or fill with sand. It’s better to change into sportswear at the camp and return to traditional clothing after your activity.
Some camps even provide small locker areas for guests to change comfortably.
Why Light-Colored Clothing Is Best for Sandboarding
Light-colored clothes — especially beige, white, or light grey — reflect sunlight instead of absorbing it. This keeps you cool and prevents overheating during midday rides. Dark colors, on the other hand, absorb more heat and can make the experience uncomfortable.
Final Advice: Dress Smart for a Smooth Sandboarding Experience
Sandboarding in Dubai is one of the most thrilling ways to explore the desert, but your comfort depends largely on what you wear. Dress for protection, not fashion. Lightweight, long-sleeved clothes, closed shoes, and basic protective gear are your best companions against the desert’s heat and sand.
Your outfit doesn’t need to be expensive — just practical, breathable, and suitable for movement.
Call to Action
Slide down Dubai’s golden dunes in comfort and confidence with Arabian Desert Safari Dubai. Our professional sandboarding tours include safety gear, training, and breathtaking views of Lahbab Desert. Book your tour today at 0544747041 and experience the desert like a pro.
Name: Arabian Desert Safari Dubai
Address: Marina Plaza – Marsa Dubai – Dubai Marina – Dubai
Phone: 0544747041
Website: arabiandesertsafari.net
Hours: Open 24 hours