What to pack for Dubai 2026: a season-by-season checklist

The short version

Dubai means a hot climate, fierce indoor air conditioning and a culture of dressing up in the evening. As a base, bring light clothing, one covered outfit for the mosque, one smart look and a British type G adapter. What exactly to pack depends on the season. If it is your first trip, check the beginner's checklist.

Winter, November to April

• Light clothing for the day, 24–28 °C.
• A light sweater or jacket for the evening and strong air conditioning.
• Swimwear, sunglasses, a cap, sunscreen.
• Comfortable shoes for a lot of walking.

Summer, May to October

• The lightest breathable clothing, linen and cotton.
• Strong SPF 50 sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat.
• A water bottle, and since indoors stays cool a light layer helps. More in the summer guide.

Dress code, what to note

• On the street and in malls cover shoulders and knees, and for the mosque a woman needs a scarf and covered clothing (often provided on site).
• One smart outfit for fine dining, a beach club or an evening out, shorts and beach footwear will not pass. Details in the dress code guide.

Do not forget

• A British type G adapter, three flat pins.
• A power bank, documents, insurance, copies of bookings.
• Cards and cash, and which ones work is covered in the money guide.

Medication and restricted items

• Bring personal medication in its original packaging with a prescription, as some drugs are controlled in the UAE (for example with codeine, strong painkillers, some psychotropics), so check in advance.
• CBD and poppy-seed products are banned, and drones need a permit. Duty-free alcohol within the allowance is fine.

Tip: do not overload the case with warm clothes, even in winter the days are warm. Better to leave room for shopping, in Dubai you will want to bring something home.

When exactly to go for your plans is covered in the seasons guide. Send your dates and style and we will tell you what to pack for your trip.