How to Dress Your Baby in the UAE Summer

The UAE summer is intense, and babies overheat far more easily than adults. Dressing a baby for the heat is mostly about doing less: fewer layers, lighter fabrics, and watching for the signs that your little one is too warm. Here is a simple, reassuring guide.

The one layer rule

A good starting point indoors is to dress your baby in one light layer of breathable cotton, similar to what you find comfortable, plus one thin extra layer only for cold air conditioning. Overdressing is a more common mistake than underdressing in the UAE summer.

Choose the right fabrics

• Soft organic cotton for almost everything. It breathes, is gentle on delicate skin, and washes easily.
• Muslin or cotton gauze swaddles, which are light and airy for very hot days.
• Avoid heavy synthetic blends and thick fleece for daytime, as they trap heat against the skin.

For more detail, see our guide to the best fabrics for the heat.

Indoors versus outdoors

• Indoors (air conditioned): a bodysuit and a light layer is usually enough. Add socks or a thin cardigan if the room is cold.
• Outdoors: keep baby in light colours and shade, with a wide brimmed hat. Limit time in direct sun, especially midday.
• In the car: dress in light layers you can adjust, since cars heat up and cool down quickly.

Watch for signs of overheating

Check the back of the neck or chest rather than the hands, which are often cooler. A baby who feels hot, sweaty, flushed or unusually fussy may be overdressed. Remove a layer, move to a cooler spot, and offer a feed.

Getting started? Browse organic cotton baby clothing at Dinooz or our newborn essentials, delivered free across the UAE on orders above AED 200.