1. Appropriate Clothing for Dubai's Weather
The first thing on the Dubai packing list should be clothing. Consider comfort, climate, and culture when you pack clothes. Dubai has hot, sunny weather, especially if you're traveling from May to September. Temperatures can rise up to 40°C (104°F). On the other hand, the culture in Dubai is conservative. Incorporate modest wear in your clothes to respect local customs. Though private beaches and hotels are more relaxed.
- Pack light, breathable clothes made from fabrics like cotton or linen. Include long skirts, maxi dresses, and linen pants. Pack scarves in case you visit mosques.
- If your itinerary includes a beach or you plan to chill by the pool, pack swimwear.
- Dubai evenings are cooler, especially in the winter months. Pack a light jacket, sweater, and scarves for the evenings. They'll come in handy when you're dining in one of Dubai's rooftop restaurants.
- For men, the guidelines are simple. T-shirts, polo shirts, long pants, and shorts that fall at the knee will do.
2. Footwear That Is Stylish and Practical
You'll be walking a lot in Dubai. Exploring the Dubai Mall, visiting the Burj Khalifa, or strolling along Jumeirah Beach, you need a comfortable pair of shoes to keep you going. The city has a fashionable vibe, so you have to consider both comfort and style.
- Wear comfortable shoes like sneakers or sandals. They need to be breathable and supportive to get you through a trip to the Dubai Mall or the Dubai Marina.
- The nightlife scene in Dubai is very vibrant. Many restaurants, clubs, and bars require people to dress smartly or casually. For a night out, pack a pair of dressy shoes.
- The beaches in Dubai offer a scenic view, and a stroll on the beach requires comfort. Don't forget to pack your flip-flops!
Pro Tip: If you’re exploring Dubai on your own, don’t forget to check out a local Dubai self guided tour.
3. Electronics and Power Adapters
The right electronics and accessories are what to bring to Dubai. No matter what gadgets you bring along with you, chargers are a must. Dubai uses British-style power outlets (Type G). You can easily find the right chargers if you haven't brought one. Americans and Japanese travelers need to check if their chargers can handle Dubai's voltage.
Here's the electronics and accessories list:
- Smartphone and charger
- Travel Adapter—Type G
- Power Bank
- Camera or GoPro
- E-reader or tablet
Pro tip: Purchase a local SIM card at the airport to use mobile data during your stay.