Whether you’re ticking Dubai off your bucket list or you’re a regular visitor, the contents of your suitcase should reflect the trip you want to have. As Dubai’s premier Airbnb management company, we at Frank Porter know the city inside and out. That’s why we’ve compiled this expert guide to tell you what to pack for Dubai and what to leave behind (spoiler alert: cash could soon be one of them). This is a practical packing list designed to help you enjoy every luxurious detail the City of Gold has to offer.
The non-negotiables
These aren’t just nice-to-haves. Forget them and you risk spending your first day in Dubai fixing problems.
- Passport & visa: Your passport needs at least 6 months’ validity. Some nationalities get a visa on arrival, but check early. Immigration is ultra strict, and an almost-expired passport is a guaranteed nightmare.
- Travel insurance: Healthcare is excellent but pricey. Even a short visit can cost a fortune without cover. Pick a plan that includes medical emergencies and adventure activities like safaris or watersports.
- Flight & hotel confirmations: Keep copies on your phone and in print. Immigration may ask for proof of return and accommodation. Airport Wi-Fi can traditionally fail at the worst moment, so backups are smart.
- Debit/credit cards: Cards and Apple/Google Pay work almost everywhere, and Dubai plans to go fully digital by 2026. Still, carry a little AED for taxis, tips, or small shops. ATMs are common, but unless your card waives fees, expect small extras.
- Plug adapter: Dubai uses the UK-style Type G plug, so bring a universal adapter.
- Prescriptions: Some routine meds abroad (like painkillers, ADHD or sleep meds) are restricted in the UAE. Keep essential medication in original packaging with a printed doctor’s note, or risk confiscation at customs.
h2>Dress the part
Blazing sun by day, cool nights after dark, glamorous yet deeply modest, Dubai is a destination unlike any other. Pack clothing wisely so you can glide from souks to sky bars with ease.
- Daywear: Breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or lightweight blends. Options include tailored shorts, linen trousers, maxi dresses, casual skirts, and loose tops. Sleeveless tops and short shorts are fine in resorts, but less appropriate in malls or public areas.
- Beach & pool: Swimsuits, bikinis, trunks, and cover-ups are perfect for hotel pools and beach clubs like Drift or White Beach. Always throw on a kaftan, sundress, or loose linen shirt when walking through lobbies or public areas.
- Nightlife: Upscale venues (Zuma, Ce La Vi, Pierchic) expect polished, smart-casual looks. Avoid shorts, jeans, trainers or flip-flops in upscale bars and restaurants.
- Cultural visits: Lightweight scarves, shawls, or long-sleeve tops are essential for mosques (like Jumeirah Mosque) or traditional neighbourhoods. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid shorts in religious sites.
- Practical footwear: The world-famous Dubai Mall, found in Downtown Dubai, will easily get you walking more than 10,000 steps in a session. Pack walking shoes or comfortable sneakers for exploring malls and souks.
Sun, sand & survival gear
Dubai’s desert heat hits different from what you might be used to back home. During the scorching summer months, the average daytime temperatures hover around 40°C, and sometimes, they can even soar between 43°C and 48°c. Needless to say, you want to come armed with SPF.
- Sunglasses & wide-brimmed hat: Essential for both city sightseeing and desert trips. Polarized lenses help on sunny days, while a wide-brimmed hat protects your face and neck.
- High SPF sunscreen & after-sun: Bring SPF 50 (preferably water-resistant) and after-sun care for long days outdoors.
- Reusable water bottle: Hydration is critical. Whether exploring souks, malls, or deserts, having water on hand keeps you energized and avoids overpaying for bottled drinks.
- Lightweight scarf: Perfect for desert safaris, dune bashing, or windy beach days. It can double as a cover-up or sun shield.
- Lightweight backpack or tote: Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, water, and small essentials hands-free. Ideal for city walks, beach trips, or desert excursions.
Tech that travels well
Because Instagram doesn’t update itself (yet).
- Smartphone & charger: Your lifeline for maps, bookings, ride-hailing (Careem/Uber), translations, and payments (Apple/Google Pay). Bring a fast charger so you’re never caught short.
- Power bank: Essential for long days out, as maps, apps, and photos will drain your phone quickly.
- Waterproof phone case: Handy for yacht charters, beach clubs, or even desert dunes where sand can sneak into everything.
- Camera + extra memory card: Optional, but Dubai is incredibly photogenic. Don’t rely only on your phone if you’re a keen photographer.
- Noise-canceling headphones & travel pillow: Long-haul flights to Dubai are so much easier when you can block out cabin noise and actually rest.
- eSIM or roaming plan: Wi-Fi is everywhere in Dubai, but an eSIM card or local data plan saves hassle when you’re out and about.
Leave it at home
Not everything belongs in your suitcase. Here are some of the things you shouldn’t bring with you:
- Restricted medications: Some medicines that are common abroad, like strong painkillers, ADHD medication, or sleeping pills, are controlled substances in the UAE. Always check Dubai’s official approved medicines list before you travel. If you must bring them, carry them in original packaging with a doctor’s prescription.
- Excessive cash: Carry a little AED for taxis or tipping, but leave the wads of cash at home.
- Heavy jackets: Dubai is hot year-round. A light sweater or wrap is plenty for chilly air-conditioned malls, restaurants, or desert evenings.
- Overly revealing clothing: Swimwear is perfect at resorts, beach clubs, or hotel pools, but not on public streets or malls.
- Alcohol: Not because of the reason you might think! Non-Muslim adults can actually legally bring up to 4 liters of alcohol or 48 cans of beer into Dubai. However, you can buy on arrival at duty-free shops or later at licensed hotels, bars, and liquor stores (such as MMI or African & Eastern). No need to lug it from home.
- Recreational drugs: The UAE has a strict zero-tolerance policy. Even tiny amounts or residue can lead to severe penalties, including prison time.
Dubai is a city where preparation pays off, and with the right essentials in your bag, you can spend less time stressing and more time experiencing what it has to offer. If you’re looking for short-term rentals in Dubai, Frank Porter offers a wide range of fully furnished apartments and villas designed to make you feel at home.
