Ultimate Packing Guide: UAE
Travel Essentials
✅ Passport & Visa – Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Keep a digital and printed copy of your passport.
✅ Student ID – Some attractions may offer student discounts, so bring your university ID.
✅ Flight Tickets & Travel Documents – Have both digital and printed copies.
✅ Health Insurance & Emergency Contacts – Carry a copy of your health insurance policy and emergency contact numbers.
✅ Cash & Credit Cards – While UAE is largely cashless, having some dirhams (AED) for small purchases is helpful.
✅ Metro Card (Provided by World Walker Upon Arrival) – The metro will be your primary mode of transport in Dubai.
Clothing & Footwear
The UAE has warm temperatures in March, but you’ll also be visiting mosques and cultural sites that require modest attire. Pack accordingly:
General Clothing:
✅ Lightweight, breathable clothing – Cotton and linen materials are ideal.
✅ Long pants, skirts, or dresses – Required for mosque visits and cultural sites.
✅ Tops with sleeves – Avoid sleeveless tops at religious sites.
✅ Casual outfits – For city exploration and free days.
✅ Evening attire – For the group dinner.
✅ Swimwear – If you plan to visit a beach or the hotel pool.
✅ Light jacket or sweater – Evenings can be cooler indoors due to air conditioning.
Shoes:
✅ Comfortable walking shoes – Essential for tours and long days of walking. Note: close-toed shoes are necessary for mosques and religious sites.
✅ Sandals or flip-flops – Useful for relaxing at the hotel or poolside.
✅ Dress shoes – If you plan on a night out.
Toiletries & Personal Care
✅ Deodorant & body wipes – Stay fresh throughout the day.
✅ Travel-size shampoo & conditioner – Most hotels provide these but bring your own if you prefer.
✅ Toothbrush & toothpaste - Self explanatory
✅ Feminine hygiene products – Stock up on your preferred brand.
✅ Moisturizer & lotion – The desert air can be drying.
✅ Basic medications – Pain relievers, motion sickness pills, allergy meds, etc. See below regarding prescription medications.
✅ Hand sanitizer & disinfectant wipes – Keep your hands clean on the go.
✅ Sunscreen (SPF 30+) – The UAE sun is strong, protect your skin.
✅ Lip balm – Prevent chapped lips in dry weather.
Tech & Accessories
✅ Universal Travel Adapter – UAE uses Type G plugs (same as the UK).
✅ Power Bank – Keep your phone charged while exploring.
✅ Smartphone & Charger – Essential for navigation and staying connected.
✅ Headphones or Earbuds – Useful for flights and downtime.
✅ Camera or Smartphone with Good Camera – Capture unforgettable moments.
✅ Small Backpack or Crossbody Bag – Convenient for daily outings.
✅ Refillable Water Bottle – Stay hydrated while exploring. The UAE is hot y’all!
Miscellaneous
✅ Notebook & Pen – Jot down insights during cultural and professional activities.
✅ Basic First Aid – Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers. Note: all of these are easily and readily available in the UAE. Don’t overpack, but come prepared if you know you are prone to blisters or get headaches easily etc.
✅ Snacks – Bring some for your long flight, and pick up more once you land for long days of exploring!
✅ Eye Mask & Earplugs – Helpful for sleeping on flights or in noisy hotels.
✅ Foldable Tote Bag – Useful for shopping or carrying extra items.
✅ Copies of Itinerary & Important Contacts – Keep a printed and digital version.
What NOT to Bring
❌ Revealing clothing – Avoid shorts above the knee, crop tops, or low-cut tops in public spaces.
❌ Expensive Jewelry – Best to leave valuable items at home.
❌ Drones – Restricted in the UAE without special permission.
❌ Alcohol or E-cigarettes – Strictly regulated and should only be purchased in designated areas.
❌ Illegal Substances & Prescription Medications Without Documentation – The UAE has strict drug laws; bring only necessary prescriptions with proper documentation.
Cultural Considerations & Travel Tips
Respect Local Customs – The UAE is a Muslim country, and modest dress is expected at religious sites.
Stay Hydrated – It can get hot, so drink plenty of water.
Tipping – While not mandatory, a 10-15% tip is appreciated at restaurants.
Avoid Public Displays of Affection – PDA is discouraged in the UAE.
Follow Local Laws – Be mindful of rules regarding photography, public behavior, and social media use.
Final Reminders
Before you depart, double-check your luggage and ensure you have all necessary items. Pack light, but efficiently, so you can enjoy your trip without unnecessary stress. Safe travels, and get ready for an amazing experience in Dubai and Abu Dhabi!
If you have any questions or need last-minute packing advice, don’t hesitate to ask. See you soon in the UAE!
