If it is your first time travelling to Dubai or the Middle East, deciding what to pack can be challenging. Our handy Dubai travel checklist breaks down all the essential things to carry for a Dubai trip. First, it’s important to learn more about the destination you are visiting so you can anticipate what you might need while you are there. Having an itinerary helps too.
Dubai is a leading tourist destination in the UAE and the Middle East at large. The destination’s infrastructure, culture, social amenities, and breathtaking scenery are among the things that make the Emirate a preferred place for people to take a vacation and relax during the holidays.
However, before jetting to the Middle East paradise, you want to be prepared for what lies ahead. Due to the different cultures and climates, you may need completely different travel accessories, equipment, and clothing than you would carry if you were visiting other destinations.
The luggage you take should include necessities and accessories that will enhance your experience and ensure your comfort throughout your stay.
What are the essential things to carry while travelling to Dubai for the first time?
1. Conservative Clothing
Dubai is a welcoming tourist destination, open to visitors from various cultures and ethnicities. As such, it is open to multiple cultural dress codes, and what you do depends on the activity you participate in, your location, and your preference. However, in a Muslim nation, a general principle requires everyone to dress modestly. You want to remain respectful of the people’s culture and way of life.
Consequently, when you travel to Dubai and the United Arab Emirates, make sure you pack conservative clothing. Carry that beautiful maxi dress for days out as you explore restaurants and move through public spaces. Skirts that go below the knee, blouses, light t-shirts that cover your skin, and linen trousers are essential clothing to pack for your Dubai trip.
The attire ensures you look stunning during your stay and respect the Emirate’s prevalent culture and religion. You wouldn’t want to offend people or make them uncomfortable in their country.
However, the dressing requirements in Dubai are more relaxed for tourists than you may presume. There are still some areas where you can don your usual casual dresses and shorts without getting into trouble, such as your hotel, the Dubai Mall, and where you converge with fellow tourists.
You can also pack your bikini to swim at the beach and in your hotel pool. The conservative attire you pack is meant for walking in public spaces.
2. Sun Protection
Whether you visit during the summer or winter, you will likely experience abundant sunshine when you travel to Dubai. The Emirate is in a desert area that experiences high temperatures and bright sunny weather on most days of the year. Therefore, you should pack sun protection products and gear when traveling to the destination, especially if you plan to engage in outdoor activities.
Ensure you pack sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin, as you will be exposed to more heat and sunshine than you are probably used to. The last thing you want is sunburns messing up your stay.
The sun can be quite bright in the afternoon, so if you plan to spend time outdoors, don’t forget to carry protective gear for your eyes so you can comfortably enjoy this beautiful city. A hat and some shades could go a long way in protecting your eyes from the sun’s rays. You could also pack additional sun protection gear depending on your specific needs.
3. A Scarf or Shawl
A scarf or shawl is an essential and versatile clothing item to pack for your trip to Dubai. It will come in handy as you traverse the landscape and enjoy various outdoor activities.
You can use your scarf or shawl to protect yourself from the sand as you travel through the desert. You will blend in perfectly with natives who use them for the same purpose. You could also use them to cover up when walking through public spaces, mosques, or holy sites to remain respectful of the Dubai religious culture.
Similarly, a shawl will keep you warm during chilly winter nights. Scarves and shawls are versatile accessories that could enhance your look and increase your comfort during your trip.
4. Water Bottle
Your vacation is when you relax and care for yourself and your body. With this in mind, staying hydrated at all times is essential, especially in Dubai’s heat. Therefore, don’t forget to pack a water bottle for your trip. It is a convenient and environmentally friendly way to keep yourself hydrated wherever you go.
5. Day Pack
You can never go wrong by carrying a day pack on a trip, and your vacation in Dubai is no different. The day pack will enable you to pack light as you move around various attractions across the Emirate. You can carry your sunscreen, water bottle, and other essentials as you move around.
6. Sandals
When you travel to Dubai, you want to take every possible step to ensure you are comfortable. For a relaxing trip, it is essential to pack a pair of sandals. They may not be stylish footwear, but they are more comfortable in the Dubai heat than closed shoes. Even if you don’t plan to indulge in many outdoor activities, a comfortable pair of sandals will help you move around easily and always be ready for impromptu visits to the city’s many beautiful beaches and beachside cafés.
7. HD Camera
Trips to foreign places are perfect for making memories as you experience new cultures and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Dubai is a city that is known for its record-breaking architecture, one-of-a-kind experiences, and lavishness. Naturally, you’d want to document this for future reference as you reminisce about your trip to the UAE. Therefore, pack an HD camera when you travel to Dubai to take clear pictures and videos of your experience.
8. Travel Guidebook
While you may have done extensive online research before your trip to Dubai, it is always helpful to pack a travel guidebook. Guidebooks have a lot of helpful information, including restaurants, sights, activities, and interesting insights about the city’s history and culture. Similarly, a guidebook for the UAE will also have must-visit gems in other emirates, such as Abu Dhabi – the capital city, and Ras Al Khaimah – a place known for its natural beauty, pristine beaches, and adventure sports.
Conclusion
Now, you know what to pack for Dubai to have an enjoyable trip. The key things to remember are to be considerate of the culture and customs of the land, and to ensure you are prepared for the warmer weather. Dubai has a lot to offer and is a popular holiday destination for a reason. With delicious world cuisine, fun family activities, luxurious hotels and shopping experiences, beautiful beaches, awe-inspiring dunes, and beautiful architecture, it delivers something for everyone.
