What Families Should Carry for a Safe and Comfortable Desert Safari in Abu Dhabi

The UAE can be a really fun destination to visit, especially for a family. Its capital, Abu Dhabi, has a lot to offer families, and a desert safari is one such thing. Beautiful skies, sandy dunes, and the wide-open space create a setting that feels different from everyday life. To enjoy it fully, preparation is key. Packing the right essentials helps families stay comfortable, confident, and safe while spending time in the desert.

Planning a Family Desert Experience

A successful desert day usually begins before you even think about leaving your accommodation. Families staying at properties like the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara will find it easier to prepare since the excursion, including transport and activities, will be well taken care of. Choosing such an Abu Dhabi resort in the Empty Quarter can help you organise your family for desert adventures, plan calmly and avoid last-minute stress. Keep in mind that desert safaris may involve spending a long period outdoors, changing temperatures, and physical activity. Packing thoughtfully helps everyone feel supported, especially children. When the basics are covered, families can focus on the experience itself rather than having to deal with discomfort or fatigue.

Water And Snacks Matter More Than You Think

Hydration is one of the most important safety considerations in the desert. You can lose a lot of water with no obvious signs, especially due to the dry air and warmth of the environment. Each person should carry their own reusable water bottle, ideally insulated to keep drinks cool. Snacks help maintain energy and mood, particularly for children. Nuts, dried fruit, crackers and sandwiches are easy to take along and provide steady nourishment. Eating small amounts regularly helps prevent tiredness during longer activities and keeps spirits high. Some families also carry electrolyte drinks or powders, which can be useful after more active parts of the safari. Of course, some resort-organised desert excursions in Abu Dhabi will include food or snacks and water or drinks.

Clothing That Keeps Everyone Comfortable

What families wear plays a huge role in terms of comfort during the trip. Loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics lets air move and helps regulate body temperature. Long sleeves and trousers protect skin from sun exposure while still feeling light. Light colours reflect heat better and remain more comfortable throughout the day. Children usually benefit from having a range of clothing in case outfits become dusty or uncomfortable. Scarves or light wraps can protect the neck and face if the wind picks up. Evenings in the desert can feel cooler, so a lightweight jacket or jumper is worth packing. Having an extra layer or even a blanket keeps children warm during sunset activities and helps everyone stay relaxed as temperatures drop.

Sun Protection for Every Family Member

The desert sun can be strong from morning through to late afternoon. Sun protection should never be an optional thing, especially in these desert conditions. Wide-brimmed hats protect faces and necks, while sunglasses reduce glare and eye strain. Sunscreen with high protection is essential for both adults and children. It should be applied before heading out and reapplied during the day, especially after physical activity. Lip balm with sun protection helps prevent dryness and cracking while keeping lips moisturised. These simple items make a clear difference to how long families can comfortably stay outdoors and how they feel at the end of the day. While these may not be "groundbreaking" products, they each have an important role to play.

Choosing the Right Footwear

Footwear plays quite an important role in comfort and safety. Closed shoes protect feet from hot sand, uneven ground, and any sharp objects. Trainers or lightweight walking shoes with good grip work well for most activities. It is ideal if kids wear shoes that are tried and tested and that they know are comfortable. New footwear can lead to blisters when walking on sand or climbing small dunes. Socks help reduce friction and keep sand from rubbing directly against the skin. Slip-on shoes can be useful for resting areas or when children want to remove footwear briefly.