/large_pexels_cottonbro_8102629_6e75efc2b2.jpg?size=40.87)
5 May 2025
Photo: cottonbro studio
The air hangs heavy, thick with humidity, as the relentless sun beats down on the Arabian Peninsula. Temperatures soar to a staggering 45–50°C, the very air shimmering above the sun-baked earth. Even the usually welcoming waters of the Gulf simmer at close to 35°C. For the residents of this region, particularly during the gruelling five-month hot season stretching from May to September, with average daily highs exceeding a scorching 44°C, staying cool isn't just about comfort — it is a vital necessity.
Extreme heat poses significant health risks, ranging from debilitating heat exhaustion to life-threatening heatstroke, and can even exacerbate pre-existing medical conditions.
Fortunately, a diverse and innovative range of gadgets and technologies has emerged to help residents across the Gulf countries effectively tackle the sweltering summers, from powerful air conditioning systems to ingenious portable cooling devices, offering a much-needed respite from the heat.
The Sandy Times will delve into a selection of the best of these cooling companions, empowering you to stay safe and comfortable as you navigate the intense Gulf summer.
Portable neck fans
While no match for the icy blast of an air conditioner, when the Gulf heat becomes truly oppressive, a portable neck fan can give a welcome whisper of coolness. Creating a personal microclimate around your head and neck. These battery-operated devices work by gently blowing air upwards, providing a continuous, albeit subtle, breeze that can make a surprising difference in how the heat feels.
When considering a portable neck fan to combat the Gulf's intense warmth, several key features stand out. Battery life is paramount. You will want a fan that can last through your commute, outdoor errands, or whatever activity you have planned without needing frequent recharges. The number of fan speed settings also matters, allowing you to adjust the airflow to your comfort level.
However, be mindful of the noise level, as higher speeds can sometimes become distracting. Design and comfort are crucial for something you will be wearing around your neck for extended periods. Look for a lightweight and ergonomic design that doesn't feel cumbersome.
You will find various types of portable neck fans on the market. Some feature traditional rotating blades, often giving powerful airflow at a more budget-friendly price point. Others utilise a bladeless design, which usually boasts a sleeker aesthetic and can be safer as there are no exposed moving parts.
Portable neck fans prove particularly useful in a variety of scenarios common in the Gulf region. They can offer a much-needed respite during a hot and humid commute, whether you are walking, cycling, or using public transport.
While models like the Gulaki Neck Fan have a reliable and competitively priced entry into the world of neck fans with multiple speed settings and even an optional LED light show, others like the Hotsales Neck Fan YP-06 prioritise exceptional battery life. For those seeking a more significant drop in body temperature, the Egopp 1S Cool Down Neck Fan employs thermoelectric semiconductor cooling chips for a near-instant cooling sensation, although this comes at the cost of battery life.
At the premium end, the Torras Coolify 2S Neck Air Conditioner stands out with its user-friendly digital display, larger cooling chip coverage, Bluetooth connectivity, and even a heating function for cooler evenings — though its price reflects its advanced features.
/Frame_2378_8bfd5a704a.jpg?size=96.05)
/Frame_2379_d0811618ce.jpg?size=86.91)
/Frame_2380_bd22f0de22.jpg?size=262.43)
Personal misting fans
When the dry heat of the Gulf becomes relentless, sometimes a simple breeze isn't enough. Check the personal misting fan, a smart gadget that combines the airflow of a fan with a fine spray of water, harnessing the power of evaporative cooling to bring instant relief. As the fine mist evaporates, it absorbs heat from your skin and the surrounding air, creating a noticeable cooling effect that can make even scorching temperatures feel bearable.
Personal misting fans come in various designs and sizes, but several key features are worth considering. The water tank capacity shows how long the misting function can operate before a refill is needed. Look for a balance between a sufficient capacity for your intended use and a compact size for portability. Fan speed settings give you control for the intensity of the airflow, offering versatility for different levels of heat. Portability is a major advantage of these devices. Many are handheld and lightweight, making them easy to carry in a backpack.
They are ideal companions for relaxing on patios, offering a refreshing cool-down while enjoying the outdoors. For those attending outdoor events, going on picnics, or embarking on beach trips, a handheld misting fan can be a lifesaver.
Products like the UOEPOWA Portable Handheld Turbo Fan, while not explicitly a misting fan, highlight the trend towards powerful, compact personal cooling solutions with adjustable speeds and long battery life, emphasising airflow. In contrast, the HandFan Portable Misting Fan and the TERRIFI Portable Handheld Mist Fan specifically incorporate a water tank and misting function, offering multiple fan speeds and spray modes.
The HandFan even boasts a foldable design and aromatherapy compatibility, while the TERRIFI features a digital display and a detachable base that doubles as a phone stand. Larger capacity options like the HandFan Personal Misting Fan with a 55 ml tank ensure longer periods of refreshing mist.
The benefits of using misting fans extend beyond personal comfort. They are generally more energy-efficient than typical air conditioning, making them a cost-effective cooling solution. Also, they are environmentally friendly, using only water without harmful chemicals.
/Frame_2381_78c29128e6.jpg?size=131.85)
/Frame_2382_1e40a43797.jpg?size=193.24)
/Frame_2383_ef6ce84585.jpg?size=159.7)
Fan-fitted jackets
For those seeking a hands-free approach to staying cool in the Gulf's heat, fan-fitted jackets present an innovative solution. These garments integrate small, battery-powered fans directly into their design, providing a continuous and gentle flow of cool air circulating around the wearer's body.
The concept behind these air-conditioned clothes was pioneered by Hiroshi Ichigaya, a former Sony engineer whose experience in Southeast Asia sparked a desire for an energy-efficient alternative to widespread air conditioning. His company, Kuchofuku, aptly named "air-conditioned clothes," launched this ingenious cooling solution in 2004.
These fan-fitted garments are particularly beneficial for individuals who work in hot environments, allowing labourers to remain comfortable and focused on their tasks without being overwhelmed by the heat. By promoting a consistent flow of air, these jackets and vests can significantly reduce the physical strain associated with working under the scorching Gulf sun.
The design has strategically placed fans, often near the back or sides of the garment, that draw in ambient air and circulate it within the clothing. This creates a cooling sensation that can make a noticeable difference, reportedly cooling the wearer by as much as 40°F (around 4°C) in some cases.
Key features to look for in fan-fitted jackets and vests include the number and placement of fans, the battery life of the power source, and the adjustability of fan speeds. Garments like the Cooling Vest for Men and Women feature dual fans and a built-in battery pocket for convenience. They are also designed with easy-to-remove fans, allowing the jacket itself to be machine-washed. Practical additions like multiple pockets for storing essentials enhance their utility for outdoor activities. Some models even incorporate a hat for added sun protection.
More advanced options, such as the MIDIAN 30V Air Cooling Jacket, boast features like UV protection thanks to a titanium alloy thermal insulation coating. Their 3D wind duct design and multiple fan speed settings aim to maximise air circulation and provide significant temperature reduction. Impressively long battery life, up to 10 hours on certain settings, powered by a high-capacity rechargeable battery, makes them suitable for extended use. The use of flat, non-protruding fans in some designs ensures comfort and doesn't hinder movement during work.
/Frame_2384_f4238ef8d2.jpg?size=94.84)
/Frame_2385_aa49e83c49.jpg?size=104.66)
/Frame_2386_87799b0bca.jpg?size=60.1)
Cooling hats
While a standard hat is a fundamental defence against the Gulf's scorching sun, cooling hats take this essential accessory to a whole new level. These innovative head coverings go beyond mere shade, incorporating technologies like built-in ice packs or cooling gel inserts to regulate your head temperature actively, ensuring lasting coolness even under the most intense rays.
The beauty of many cooling hats lies in their simple yet effective recharging mechanism. As the Arctic Hat and similar designs highlight, often all it takes is soaking the integrated cooling elements in ice water for a brief period — around 10 minutes — to equip them for hours of cooling relief. This reusable feature makes them a sustainable and convenient way to beat the heat.
Brands like Arctic Hat and Mission have become synonymous with innovative cooling headwear. Some models, like those from Mission, go the extra mile by integrating UV protection and moisture-wicking fabrics. Mission's cooling bucket hats, for instance, boast an impressive UPF 50 rating, effectively blocking up to 98% of harmful UV rays while simultaneously keeping your head cool and dry through their water or sweat-activated cooling technology.
Technology can cool the hat by up to 30 degrees Fahrenheit below average body temperature in under a minute and can stay cool for up to two hours with re-wetting.
The benefits of cooling hats in hot weather are multifaceted. They actively reduce heat buildup on the head and scalp, help prevent heat exhaustion and heatstroke by regulating overall body temperature, and crucially protect against sunburn by providing shade. This translates to enhanced comfort and potentially improved performance for those engaged in outdoor activities.
The market offers various types of cooling hats, including water-activated cooling hats that utilise evaporative cooling, phase change cooling hats that employ materials to absorb and release heat, and mesh or breathable fabric hats that prioritise airflow. Many also feature sweatbands to enhance comfort by absorbing perspiration.
By choosing the right cooling hat, you can effectively top off your defences against the Gulf heat, staying cool and protected throughout your outdoor adventures.
/Frame_2387_3a78797e91.jpg?size=211.15)
/Frame_2388_abb23f6855.jpg?size=115.29)
/Frame_2389_38c1437554.jpg?size=101.84)
/medium_img_7d23949d76.jpg?size=115.87)
/medium_walter_sun_h_D14_F_ktv6_I_unsplash_1_1b5d3db2d7.jpg?size=91.9)
/medium_getty_images_Lrukf_P6_DX_6g_unsplash_ba8b31d805.jpg?size=62.53)
/medium_7_c048146a0c.jpg?size=56.41)
/medium_plo_olq_k_I_Yg9_U_Qi1c4_unsplash_fdc2689196.jpg?size=32.39)
/medium_anshu_a_6yqc_Na8btxw_unsplash_e62c5ca482.jpg?size=78.42)