Newborn Essentials for Parents Living in the Middle East

Welcoming a new baby into the world is one of the most exciting and overwhelming moments in a parent’s life. For those living in the Middle East, preparing for your newborn comes with some unique considerations. From managing the climate to choosing baby gear that suits regional lifestyles, this guide will walk you through the essentials to help you feel confident and well-prepared.

 

☀️ Temperature-Appropriate Sleepwear

One of the biggest concerns for parents in the Middle East is how to dress their baby for sleep in a region known for its hot climate and contrasting air-conditioned environments. While outside temperatures can soar, most babies sleep in air-conditioned rooms.

What to look for:

• Sleep bags with a 1.0 TOG rating - like our Hushabye sleep bags - which is ideal for rooms set between 20–22°C (68–72°F), which is the range recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
  

• Breathable, thermoregulating fabrics like organic bamboo to help cool a baby down when warm.
  

• Sleep sacks that are snug but not a tight fit, with ample room around the hips for movement.
  
  

Why bamboo? Studies show bamboo fabric is much more breathable and thermoregulating than cotton, helping reduce the risk of overheating.

 

💦 Hydration & Skin Protection

While babies under 6 months shouldn’t drink water, hydration through breastmilk or formula is critical. The heat can also affect your baby’s delicate skin.

Essentials:

• A high-quality baby-friendly moisturiser - especially unscented and hypoallergenic - like the Bio-Sourced Baby Lotion from Sophie la Girafe Baby Care.
  

• A sunhat for quick outings and even better if it has SPF protection like the ones from Badawii Beachwear.
  

• Avoid direct sun exposure under 6 months of age (AAP recommendation).

 

👕 Breathable Everyday Clothing

Choose clothing that supports comfort in both AC and ambient warmth. Think footless bodysuits, short-sleeve rompers when out and about, and loose-fitting separates.

Features to prioritise:

• Soft seams and tag-free labels.
  

• Bamboo or organic cotton fabrics.
  

• Easy fastenings for quick changes.
  
  

Fun fact! Our Hushabye zippered sleepsuits have removable mittens and footies so you can easily adjust your baby for the cold or heat. Perfect when moving from the cold AC to the warm outdoors and vice versa. 

 

🌬️ Compact, Cooling-Friendly Gear

Think about the lifestyle realities of living in the Middle East, you may be hopping in and out of a car, walking through malls, or attending outdoor gatherings.

Recommended items:

• A breathable baby carrier - ones with mesh material like the Ergobaby Omni Breeze are great at allowing air through.
  

• A stroller with a sun canopy or use a snooze shade to keep your baby out of the sun but not increase the temperature under the cover by their innovative design.
  

• A car seat cover with light UV protection.
  
  

Final Thoughts

Parenting a newborn in the Middle East means balancing indoor cooling with outdoor heat. By choosing breathable fabrics, regulating room temperature, and protecting your baby’s skin, you’ll be setting a solid foundation for comfort and safety.

Looking for newborn essentials designed with the region in mind? Explore Hushabye’s collection of bamboo sleepsuits and sleep bags —perfect for families in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait.