Understanding Heat Risk by Destination

Dubai and Abu Dhabi in summer (June to September) regularly see temperatures above 40°C with high humidity — outdoor sightseeing between 11am and 4pm is genuinely dangerous for young children, elderly travellers and anyone with a cardiovascular condition. Southeast Asia (Bangkok, Bali, Ho Chi Minh City) is hot and humid year-round, with peak heat between noon and 3pm. The Maldives and beach destinations feel less extreme because sea breezes provide relief, but UV index remains very high year-round. Even in Mediterranean Europe during summer, afternoon temperatures in cities like Rome, Athens or Barcelona can exceed 35°C. Indian families used to Indian summers may feel confident in the heat, but high humidity combined with sustained temperatures — and the physical activity of sightseeing — creates conditions that lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion faster than expected.

Recognising Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke

Heat exhaustion develops when the body cannot cool itself adequately and is characterised by heavy sweating, cool or pale skin, fast or weak pulse, nausea, dizziness, muscle cramps and fatigue. Treatment: move to a cool shaded area immediately, remove excess clothing, apply cool damp cloths, and drink water or an electrolyte drink slowly. If symptoms do not improve within 30 minutes, seek medical help. Heatstroke is a medical emergency and occurs when body temperature rises above 40°C. Key warning signs are confusion, lack of sweating despite heat, hot and dry skin, rapid strong pulse, loss of consciousness or seizure. Call emergency services immediately, move the person to cool surroundings, and apply ice packs or cold water to the neck, armpits and groin while waiting for help. Children and the elderly are significantly more vulnerable to both conditions than healthy adults.

Sunscreen — Choosing and Using It Correctly

SPF 30 is the minimum for tropical or desert travel; SPF 50 is strongly recommended for fair-skinned family members, children and anyone who will be outdoors for extended periods. Apply generously 20 to 30 minutes before sun exposure — most people apply less than half the required amount. Reapply every 2 hours and immediately after swimming or sweating, regardless of whether the product claims to be waterproof. Cover all exposed areas: ears, the back of the neck, tops of feet and the parting of the hair are commonly missed. For children under 6 months, keep them out of direct sunlight entirely — their skin cannot safely use chemical sunscreens. For children 6 months and older, use a mineral-based sunscreen (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) which is gentler on sensitive skin. UV-protective swimwear and rash guards for children significantly reduce the area needing sunscreen at the beach.

Planning Your Day Around the Heat

The most effective way to manage heat on holiday is timing. Start sightseeing early — before 10am — when temperatures and UV levels are still manageable. Return to your hotel between noon and 3pm for lunch, pool time or a rest. Resume outdoor activities from 4pm onward as the heat begins to ease. This rhythm aligns perfectly with how most hot-climate countries actually live, and you will notice that local markets, beach activity and evening street food culture comes alive after 5pm precisely because afternoons are too hot for comfort. In Dubai specifically, most major attractions (malls, indoor theme parks, souks) are air-conditioned and deliberately scheduled for afternoon visits. Build this into your itinerary rather than fighting the climate. Carry a refillable water bottle for each family member and set reminders to drink — thirst is a late indicator of dehydration, especially in children.

Clothing, Shade and Practical Accessories

Lightweight, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made from natural fibres (cotton or linen) reflects heat and allows airflow better than synthetic fabrics. Long sleeves and trousers in light fabrics provide more sun protection than shorts and T-shirts while keeping you cooler than bare skin in direct sun. Wide-brimmed hats that shade the face, ears and back of the neck are among the most effective single items for reducing heat exposure during outdoor sightseeing. Sunglasses with UV400 protection protect eyes from UV radiation — essential for children in beach and desert environments. A handheld fan or personal misting fan provides immediate relief when moving between air-conditioned spaces. For very young children in prams, attach a UV shade canopy and check regularly that the child is not overheating, as prams trap heat around infants even in seemingly comfortable temperatures.