How to live well with year-round sun
Enjoy the outdoors safely in the UAE sun: protect your skin, stay hydrated, and make smart choices for lasting health and wellness.
Simple ways to enjoy the outdoors safely in the UAE
The sun doesn’t take a season off
In the UAE, sunlight is a constant. It frames the day from early morning until long after work hours. Whether you're heading to the beach or picking up groceries, you're in it. And most of the time, that's a good thing. It boosts mood, supports vitamin D production, and helps regulate sleep.
But high ultraviolet (UV) exposure doesn’t wait for summer. Even short moments outdoors, walking to your car or grabbing a coffee, can build up fast. The skin records every bit, even if you don’t.
The signs show up slowly
You don’t need to burn to be affected. UV rays break down skin structure over time. That leads to wrinkles, pigmentation, and a higher risk of skin cancer. You might start to notice uneven skin tone, rough texture, or spots that weren’t there before. Often, these changes come years after the damage is done.
Even time spent in traffic adds to your total exposure. Car windows let in more UV than most people realise. That’s why you’ll sometimes see more wear on the left side of the face and arms, especially for those who drive a lot.
Protection is about consistency
There’s no need for a complicated routine. A few habits done regularly will take you far. Start with sunscreen. Use SPF 30 or higher and put it on before leaving the house. That small timing shift matters. Keep it in your bag or car for top-ups later in the day.
Clothing helps too. Long, light sleeves offer good protection without overheating. A hat with real coverage and proper sunglasses do more than just help you see clearly; they cut your exposure in places that burn fast.
Staying in the shade when possible also makes a difference. Even partial cover during peak hours, like an awning or tree, reduces stress on your skin.
Timing matters more than you think
The hours between late morning and mid-afternoon hit hardest. That’s when the sun’s strength peaks. Shifting outdoor plans to earlier or later, even slightly, means less exposure and more comfort. If you’re outside midday, limit your time and stick to shaded spots when possible.
Water before thirst
In UAE scorching summer heat, staying hydrated is crucial to avoid fatigue, dizziness, and serious heat-related illnesses. With temperatures often exceeding 45°C, your body loses fluids quickly, especially if you're outdoors or physically active.
To stay safe and energised, drink plenty of water throughout the day, even before you feel thirsty. Include hydrating foods like watermelon and cucumbers in your meals, and limit caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.
Carry a reusable water bottle, opt for electrolyte-rich drinks when sweating heavily, and try to stay in shaded or air-conditioned areas during peak heat hours. Staying hydrated is one of the easiest and most reliable ways to stay healthy in the summer heat.
Kids and drivers need more attention
Children spend more time outdoors and often forget to protect themselves. Hats get lost, sunscreen rubs off, and they rarely complain until they’re already hot. Apply protection before they leave the house and send extras when you can.
For drivers, the exposure is constant. UV comes through windows, and over time, it shows. If you’re behind the wheel a lot, consider window tints or using sleeves to cover up. A small tube of sunscreen in the glove box goes a long way.
Everyone’s skin reacts differently
Some people tan quickly, others burn in minutes. Medications, health conditions, or even genetics play a role in how the skin handles UV. If you’re unsure or noticing changes, check with a doctor. If you already have individual health insurance or family health insurance, many plans include basic dermatology or preventive care, sometimes even annual skin screenings. It’s worth checking your coverage. You don’t need a specific concern to book a check-up. Preventing problems early is reason enough.
These quick visits can help spot issues early and give you clear guidance on what your skin type needs.
Make it routine, then forget about it
You don’t have to avoid the outdoors. You don’t need to give up your daily walk or beach trip. The goal is to make small changes that don’t slow you down. Once these habits become part of your routine (sunscreen, sleeves, shade and water) the sun becomes something you manage, not something you worry about.
That’s how you keep the benefits, skip the damage, and still enjoy the best parts of being outside in the UAE.
