What to Pack for Dubai and Abu Dhabi: 5 Essential Items for United Arab Emirates

Feel like you always over-pack for your vacations? Trust me, we know a few people (who shall remain nameless!). But over the years, Kevin and I have managed to get our packing down to a science. After all, who wants to spend their valuable vacation time searching for a last minute forgotten items?

Kevin enjoys reading up on Dubai. Lonely Planet travel guides are our go-to guide when abroad.

Not sure about what to pack for Dubai and Abu Dhabi? We recently spent 1 week in United Arab Emirates and were so happy to have had the essentials below. After all, Dubai and Abu Dhabi certainly aren’t cheap. And with Amazon 2-day delivery, you have no excuses. Unless, you know, you’re totally last minute. And in that case, we’ll try not to judge (too much!).

The Essentials: Top Picks on What to Pack for Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Electrical Outlet Adapters (Type G) — We loved this power adapter since we could plug 3 items in at once (both our laptops along with the iPad) and still have 2 places to charge our iPhones. Even with limited outlets in the room, we had no issues keeping everything charged at once. Price: $16.99 USD.

Bathing Suits — Beaches and pools are a big deal in Dubai, even in the winter time. Whether you’re going to Kite Beach, lounging at the hotel pool or zipping down a water slide at Atlantis’ Aquaventure Water Park, you’ll need a swim suit for your time in Dubai. We loved the surf runner swim trunks below. They’re lightweight and dry completely in just a few hours. Plus, you can’t beat the price (less than $30 USD a pair).

Coppertone Broad Spectrum Sunblock — The desert sun can be brutal. You should come prepared and slather on the sunblock several times throughout the day. Who wants pre-mature wrinkles? Plus, Kevin and I are pale and burn within minutes. I always bring a large bottle of sunscreen, but the 3-ounce option below is perfect for traveling on the go. You can keep it in your pocket or side bag and re-apply when needed. Best of all? The price, less than $5 USD a tube.Refillable Water Bottle — The dry heat will certainly take it out of you. And you’ll need to stay well-hydrated. We recommend this sleek water bottle for your travels. It’s lightweight and doesn’t leak. That’s basically the main things we care about. And as Kevin knows, I sure do drink a lot of water! So it’s been put to the test. $14.99 USD for a set of 2 bottles.

What About Clothing in United Arab Emirates? Do People Wear Shorts in Dubai and Abu Dhabi?

On our evening desert safari in December. Bring layers for the cool desert temperatures at night.

As a general rule, United Arab Emirates has warm weather year-round — even in the “cooler” winter months. We recommend light and comfortable clothing. Jeans and light pants are a necessity. We traveled in the winter and tended to wear jeans every day. We were told that while it can get brutally hot in the summer, most people still wear light pants (rather than shorts) given the cultural aspect. Also, bring a light jacket, because the desert can get chilly at night.