Joanna James
Dubai, known for its luxurious lifestyle, stunning skyscrapers, and vast desert landscapes, is a city that seamlessly blends modernity with tradition. Whether you’re visiting for a business trip, a shopping spree, or an adventure-filled holiday, packing wisely will ensure that you enjoy your trip without any inconveniences. With Dubai’s warm climate, modest cultural expectations, and diverse range of activities, it is important to pack practical yet stylish essentials.
Dubai experiences high temperatures for most of the year, with summer months being particularly intense. Packing lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen will keep you comfortable while exploring the city, whether wandering downtown or looking for things to do in Ibn Battuta Mall. Women should consider maxi dresses, long skirts, or loose pants with tops that cover the shoulders when visiting public places, as Dubai follows a conservative dress code. Men can opt for lightweight trousers or shorts with short-sleeved shirts for casual outings. While beachwear is acceptable at pools, private beaches, and hotels like the Avani Ibn Battuta Dubai, it is important to carry a cover-up or kaftan when transitioning to public areas. If your itinerary includes fine dining or exclusive nightclubs, elegant evening attire such as cocktail dresses for women and formal shirts for men is necessary.
Although Dubai has world-class medical facilities, having a small first-aid kit can be convenient for minor issues. Include pain relievers, anti-nausea tablets, motion sickness pills for desert safaris, and band-aids in case of blisters from long walks. Due to the dry air, eye drops and nasal spray can help prevent discomfort, especially in air-conditioned environments. Carrying hand sanitiser and wet wipes is useful, particularly when visiting crowded areas like souks and metro stations. If you take prescription medications, ensure they are in original packaging with a doctor’s note, as Dubai has strict regulations regarding medicine imports.
Dubai is making strides in sustainability, and travellers can contribute by packing reusable essentials. A refillable water bottle with a built-in filter will help reduce plastic waste, as Dubai’s tap water is safe to drink. Many cafes and restaurants now offer discounts for bringing your own reusable coffee cup, making it a practical item for coffee lovers. A reusable shopping bag is also useful when purchasing souvenirs at the souks or grocery stores. Since plastic bags are being phased out, carrying eco-friendly toiletries like shampoo bars and bamboo toothbrushes will align with Dubai’s sustainability efforts.
Finally, keeping your passport, visa documents, and travel insurance in a secure travel wallet will ensure a hassle-free entry. Although Dubai is largely cashless, having a small amount of UAE Dirhams (AED) is helpful for taxis, small vendors, or tips. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always good to check with your bank about international transaction fees. If you plan to rent a car, an international driving permit may be required, so carrying it along with your driver’s license is essential.
If your list of activities includes visits to mosques or cultural centres, bringing a scarf for women is important, as covering the head is required in places like the Jumeirah Mosque. Men should also wear long pants and avoid sleeveless shirts when entering religious sites. While many locations provide abayas and headscarves for visitors, having your own will ensure comfort and preparedness.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
