How to Stay Cool Outdoors in a UAE Summer
From June to September, UAE temperatures regularly pass 40°C with high humidity on the coast. You can still enjoy the outdoors, but it takes planning. Here's how to do it safely.
Time it right
- Go out early, ideally before 9:00, or after sunset.
- Avoid strenuous activity in the middle of the day.
- Many parks and beaches have night facilities in summer. Use them.
Note that outdoor workers in the UAE have a legally mandated midday break during the hottest summer months. That tells you a lot about those hours.
Hydrate before you're thirsty
- Drink water regularly, before, during and after being outside.
- For sweaty activity longer than an hour, add electrolytes.
- Keep drinks cold in an insulated bag or bottle. People drink more when the water is cold.
- Limit very sugary and caffeinated drinks.
Dress for the heat
- Loose, light-coloured, breathable clothing
- A wide-brimmed hat and UV sunglasses
- Sunscreen SPF 30 or higher, reapplied every two hours
Cooling tricks that work
- Cool, damp towel: wet a microfiber towel, wring it out and drape it around your neck. As it evaporates it cools you, and microfiber holds water well without dripping.
- Cold packs: a chilled pack against the wrists, neck or armpits cools you down quickly (always wrap it in cloth).
- Frozen bottles: freeze half a bottle of water, top up in the morning, and you have cold water for hours.
- Shade breaks: rest in shade every 20 to 30 minutes.
Know the warning signs
Heat exhaustion: heavy sweating, dizziness, headache, nausea, cramps. Move to a cool place, drink water, cool the skin.
Heat stroke is an emergency: confusion, hot skin, fainting, sweating may stop. Call 999 (police/emergency) or 998 (ambulance) and cool the person immediately.
Children, older adults and anyone with health conditions are more at risk, so check on them often.
Never leave anyone in a parked car
A car's interior heats up dangerously in minutes in UAE summer. Never leave children or pets inside, even briefly.
Our expandable cooler bag includes a hot/cold pack to keep drinks cold, and a microfiber towel doubles as a cooling neck wrap.
