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Dubai guide

🇦🇪 Packing List

What to pack for Dubai

In October, Dubai is typically hot, typically dry (23°C - 35°C). Pick the month you travel and the list changes with it.

Dubai essentials

  • Modest outfits that cover shoulders and knees for town and religious sites
  • Swimwear for the resort or beach only, cover up in town

Documents

  • Photo ID
  • Passport (valid 6+ months)
  • Visa / e-visa printout
  • Return / onward flight tickets
  • Travel insurance policy
  • Hotel booking confirmations
  • Passport-size photographs (2-4)
  • Photocopies / phone photos of passport and tickets, stored separately

Clothing

  • Casual day outfits
  • One smart-casual outfit for dinners
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Very light, breathable cotton or linen clothing
  • Sun hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Undergarments and sleepwear
  • Enough outfits for 7 days (6 sets)
  • A light jacket for evenings
  • Beach-appropriate wear

Toiletries & health

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, and toiletries
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
  • Personal medication with prescription
  • Basic first-aid: band-aids, painkillers, ORS (7 days)
  • Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
  • After-sun lotion
  • Excellent food hygiene standards. Tap water is safe but bottled preferred.

Electronics

  • Phone and charger
  • Power bank
  • Camera (optional)
  • Power adaptor: Type G plugs (UK style, 3-pin), 220V.

Money

  • Debit / credit cards
  • Local currency: UAE Dirham (AED)

Local know-how

  • Don't drink alcohol in public (only licensed venues)
  • Local SIM: Du or Etisalat. Buy at airport or any mall. Tourist SIMs available.
  • Overpriced taxis - always use meter or Careem/Uber
  • October highlights: Return of outdoor events; Halloween events