Dubai Packing Guide: What to Pack for a Stress‑Free Trip

Planning a trip to Dubai? Knowing what to throw in your suitcase can save you money, time, and embarrassment. Below you’ll find the must‑haves, the things you can leave at home, and handy tips to breeze through customs.

Clothing, Shoes & Accessories

Dubai’s heat can hit 40 °C in summer, but malls and hotels stay air‑conditioned. Pack light, breathable fabrics for daytime – cotton shirts, linen trousers, and modest dresses or skirts that cover the knees. Even though the city is modern, public places expect some covering, especially for women, so bring a light scarf or shawl.

• Short‑sleeve tees or polo shirts – 3 to 5
• Loose‑fit trousers or jeans – 2 pairs
• Modest dresses or maxi skirts – 1‑2
• Swimwear for pool days (use a cover‑up when walking around)
• Comfortable sandals or flip‑flops for the beach
• Closed shoes for restaurants, clubs, and desert tours
• Light jacket or cardigan for indoor AC
• Sun hat, sunglasses, and a small travel umbrella

Essentials, Documents & Tech

Nothing ruins a holiday faster than missing paperwork. Keep your passport, visa (if needed), flight tickets, and hotel booking printed and also saved on your phone. A small zip‑lock bag protects them from sand and spills.

• Passport (valid 6 months beyond stay) + photocopy
• UAE e‑visa or entry stamp proof
• Travel insurance card and policy number
• Health card or vaccination record (COVID‑19 may still apply)
• Credit cards, a little cash in Dirhams, and a backup card
• Power adapter – UAE uses Type G (British‑style) 230 V
• Phone charger, power bank (essential for long desert trips)
• Portable Wi‑Fi or local SIM if you plan to stream
• Basic meds: pain reliever, antihistamine, motion‑sickness tablets
• Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated, especially in the heat)

When it comes to gadgets, a compact camera is optional – most smartphones take great pics. If you bring a DSLR, remember extra batteries and memory cards. Keep everything organized in a packing cube or separate bags to find items quickly.

Things to Skip or Pack Smart

Dubai’s customs are strict about certain items. Leave any illegal drugs, e‑cigarettes with nicotine > 2 mg/ml, and obvious weapons at home. Chewing gum isn’t banned, but avoid bringing CBD‑infused products – they’ll be confiscated.

Vapes are allowed in carry‑on only and must be used in designated smoking areas. If you really need your vape, pack the device, charger, and a few e‑liquids; don’t pack them in checked luggage.

Alcohol is sold in licensed venues, so you don’t need to bring any unless you have a special permit. Pack a small, discreet bottle if you have a medical need, but be ready for customs checks.

Finally, think about the desert. A lightweight scarf can protect your face from sand, and a pair of sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes helps on dune bashing tours. Sunscreen (SPF 30+), lip balm, and after‑sun aloe are lifesavers.

With this list you should be able to zip up your bag, breeze through the airport, and enjoy Dubai without second‑guessing what you forgot. Safe travels!