How to Pack to Beat the Heat in Dubai - Pack right to be cool and comfy!

Dubai is an ultramodern city, and it is also an emirate in the United Arab Emirates. It is known for its luxury shopping opportunities and fantastic architecture. Dubai has a desert climate, and it gets hot and humid, especially during the summer months. Packing the right stuff will help to keep you comfortable so that you can get the best of your time there.



Thomas Martinsen faceline, Beach Vacation Packing (Unsplash), CC0 1.0

Cotton clothes


Pack sufficient loose cotton and linen clothes preferably in lighter shades as it absorbs less heat. Stick to pastel colours and shades of white, and at all costs avoid wearing black or brown. Ladies, in particular, will have to dress modestly and not reveal their shoulders, plunging necklines or wear anything above the knee. When visiting places of religious worship both men and women will have to adhere to the dress code. Long flowy dresses, and skirts, will keep you cool and comfortable. Short-sleeved tops and loose t-shirts will also work. You can pair them with harem pants or cotton trousers. When going out for dinner or somewhere nice it’s better to wear lighter colours, although considerably less humid, nights can get uncomfortable as well, especially in the summer. So, opt for loose comfortable clothing, with minimum makeup as sweat can wipe it right off.




Footwear


Don’t bother packing closed shoes, instead pack open toes sandals and slippers to allow your feet to breathe. A pair of nice open-toed heels for a formal dinner or a party will do nicely.




Pack an umbrella


Although it seldom rains in Dubai, sun umbrellas are quite popular for people living in Dubai as a means of shade and protection from the harsh climate. Try to get a UV umbrella with a silver top to reflect sun rays and with a black underside to block harmful rays.




Sun protection


The sun can be ruthless in a desert climate, and those who are not used to it will feel the heat. To protect your skin and headwear adequate protection. A high SPF, 50 or above is a must. Sunglasses and a wide brim sun hat can also keep your head cool. Eye protection is very important after around 10.00 am the sun’s glare will be unbearable, and you won’t be able to look ahead with a straight face. Bandanas or scarves are also appropriate and can be a stylish accessory. Wear long sleeves to prevent burning at a minimum, and don’t forget your feet, and ears when applying sunscreen.




An insulated bottle of water


It is vital to keep yourself hydrated, as the warm weather and the sweating will quickly make you thirsty and dehydrated. However, tap water in Dubai is not potable and many households simply rely on plastic water bottles as their primary source of water. Plastic water bottles absorb heat rapidly, and you will find that the water heats up very fast, even if you are just simply walking from one place to another. An insulated bottle can keep your water cool for longer periods of time. Fill up the insulated water bottle with bottled water, so that you can take it around with you everywhere you go.




Swimsuits


Foreigners can wear swimsuits and even bikinis at private pools and beaches, as you may spend a lot of time there during the daytime to keep yourself cool. However, at public beaches where there are locals and families, it is important for men and women to dress modestly. Women should opt for a one-piece suit and cover-ups such as a sarong once out of the water, men should also refrain from wearing speedos. While there for business, and if looking for a meeting room in Dubai, one can try the likes of Avani Ibn Battuta Hotel Dubai.