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Heading to Dubai from the UK? Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach holiday, a luxury shopping escape, or a family trip, packing appropriately is essential. With Dubai’s desert climate, cultural etiquette, and modern infrastructure, it pays to know exactly what you need to bring.
In this guide, we break down the essentials for your suitcase. From clothing and electronics to travel documents and weather considerations, this is the ultimate checklist tailored for Dubai travel for UK tourists.
Understand Dubai’s Climate Before You Pack
Dubai has a hot desert climate with two main seasons:
- Winter (November to March): Mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures around 20 to 30°C
- Summer (April to October): Extremely hot, often exceeding 40°C, with high humidity
There is little to no rainfall, and even in winter, you will not need heavy clothing. Air-conditioning is strong indoors, so layers are still a good idea.
Clothing Essentials for UK Travellers
Dubai is modern, but modesty is valued. While you will see people in fashionable attire, dressing respectfully is appreciated, particularly in public areas such as shopping malls, government buildings, and religious sites.
For Women:
- Lightweight, breathable tops and tunics
- Loose-fitting trousers, skirts, or maxi dresses
- T-shirts or blouses that cover the shoulders
- Swimsuits for the pool or beach, plus a cover-up
- A scarf or shawl for visiting mosques
- Cardigan or light jumper for indoor air conditioning
For Men:
- Short-sleeve shirts and polo tops
- Lightweight cotton or linen trousers
- Shorts for beach or casual outings
- Swimsuit or swim trunks
- Light jumper for cooler evenings or air-conditioned places
It is best to avoid anything too revealing, sheer, or with offensive slogans. Clothing that respects local culture is always recommended.
What Shoes to Pack
Comfort is key in Dubai. Whether you’re exploring souks, walking through massive malls, or going on desert tours, appropriate footwear is essential.
- Sandals or flip-flops for beachwear or poolside lounging
- Trainers or comfortable walking shoes for day trips and shopping
- Dress shoes or wedges if you plan to dine at upscale restaurants or attend events
Dubai is clean and well-maintained, but walking long distances in fancy shoes can be tiring.
Toiletries and Personal Care
Most personal care products are available in Dubai, but you may want to pack your preferred brands.
- High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm
- After-sun lotion or aloe vera
- Moisturiser and deodorant
- Travel-size shampoo and conditioner
- Razor, toothbrush, and toothpaste
- Sanitary products (tampons may be harder to find)
- Prescription medications (carry in original packaging)
Carry any required medications with a doctor’s letter, especially for controlled substances. Some over-the-counter medicines available in the UK may be restricted in the UAE.
Travel Documents and Essentials
Even though Dubai is tourist-friendly, do not forget these important items:
- UK passport with at least 6 months’ validity
- Return or onward travel ticket
- Travel insurance documents
- Hotel booking confirmation
- Copies of any visa documents if applicable
- Debit/credit cards and a small amount of cash in AED
- A printed or digital itinerary
UK citizens do not need to apply for a visa in advance. You receive a free 30-day visa on arrival. Read our full guide: Do UK citizens need a visa to visit Dubai?
Electronics and Gadgets
Dubai uses the same Type G three-pin plug sockets as the UK, and the voltage is also 220–240V, which means UK travellers can use their electronics without needing a voltage converter or travel adapter. Still, bringing a few smart accessories can make your trip smoother and more connected.
Start with your smartphone and charger, since it will likely be your main tool for navigation, bookings, and communication. Add a portable power bank so you never run out of battery during long sightseeing days or desert excursions. A multi-USB charger is helpful if you’re carrying multiple devices, such as tablets, smartwatches, or Bluetooth accessories.
For your flight, noise-cancelling headphones can make the 7-hour journey from the UK much more pleasant. If you’re planning outdoor activities like a desert safari or a yacht cruise, consider packing a camera or a GoPro to capture high-quality footage beyond your smartphone’s abilities.
Avoid high data roaming charges. Check our guide: How to use your UK SIM or get a UAE SIM in Dubai.
Useful Extras to Bring
Sometimes it is the little things that make your trip easier. Consider packing:
- Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated)
- Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat
- Foldable shopping tote or day bag
- Hand sanitiser and travel tissues
- Travel pillow for flights or long car rides
- Ziplock bags for toiletries and wet items
- Lightweight rain poncho (occasionally useful in winter)
What Not to Pack
While Dubai is welcoming and modern, the UAE enforces strict customs regulations, and bringing prohibited items could lead to delays, fines, or confiscation at the airport. As a UK traveller, it’s essential to know what to leave out of your suitcase before heading to Dubai.
Avoid packing e-cigarette cartridges containing CBD or THC, as these are considered controlled substances and may result in serious legal trouble. Alcohol can be brought in your checked luggage, but only within duty-free limits (up to 4 liters per person). Do not bring open bottles or attempt to carry alcohol in your hand luggage unless purchased at duty-free upon arrival.
You should also steer clear of items with political, religious, or offensive messages, including T-shirts, books, or digital content. Pornographic material in any form is strictly prohibited. Even some magazines with adult content may be flagged for review.
Pork products are not permitted, even if they are sealed. Additionally, prescription medications that contain strong narcotics or psychotropics, such as codeine, require a doctor’s note and prior approval.
Before travelling, always check the latest rules from the UAE Federal Customs Authority to ensure compliance. When in doubt, it’s safer to leave the item at home.
Family Travel Packing Tips
If you are travelling as a family, especially with children or elderly relatives, you will want to include:
- Sun-protective clothing for kids
- Baby wipes, nappies, and formula (if needed)
- Refillable water bottles
- Small toys, colouring books, or tablets
- Travel snacks for picky eaters
- Lightweight stroller or baby carrier
- Prescription medication for children
- Copies of birth certificates or consent letters if travelling solo with minors
For family-friendly accommodation suggestions, visit our guide to best hotels in Dubai for UK families.
Accommodation and Transport Tips
Your packing choices should reflect where you’re staying and how you plan to get around. If you’ve booked a beachfront resort, focus on light, breathable resort wear like swimsuits, cover-ups, and sandals. On the other hand, if you’re staying in Downtown Dubai or near the Dubai Marina, pack a few smart-casual outfits suitable for dining, sightseeing, or visiting shopping malls, where dress codes tend to be more refined.
When it comes to getting around, Dubai’s public transport system is efficient, modern, and safe. The Dubai Metro connects key parts of the city, including the airport, Burj Khalifa, and the Mall of the Emirates. Buses and water taxis complement the metro system for full city coverage.
Pack a NOL card, which can be purchased at any metro station, to pay for public transit rides. Make sure to download Google Maps offline before you go, so you can easily navigate even without mobile data.
Also, bring comfortable walking shoes, as many attractions involve walking through large malls or lengthy promenades.
Need help getting around? See our guide: How to get around Dubai: Metro, taxis, Uber, and car rental.
Carry-On Essentials for the Flight
Dubai is about 7 hours from London, so your carry-on should keep you comfortable in-flight:
- Passport and boarding pass
- Face mask and sanitiser
- Refillable water bottle (fill after security)
- Change of clothes for a hot arrival
- Moisturiser, eye drops, and lip balm
- Snacks or gum
- Power bank and phone
- Earplugs or headphones
Also, pack all valuables and documents in your carry-on for security.
Final Packing Checklist
Here is a quick recap of what to pack for Dubai:
Clothing
- Modest tops and trousers
- Swimwear and cover-ups
- Light jumper or shawl
- Breathable fabrics like cotton and linen
Toiletries
- Sunscreen, deodorant, moisturiser
- Prescription meds with GP letter
- Feminine hygiene items
Electronics
- Phone, charger, power bank
- Camera (optional)
- UK-compatible plug or multi-socket
Travel Docs
- Passport (6+ months validity)
- Insurance and flight confirmation
- Visa info (if applicable)
- Credit/debit cards and AED cash
Extras
- Reusable bottle, sunglasses, hat
- Shopping tote, hand sanitiser
- Baby/kid travel gear (if needed)
Final Thoughts
Packing for Dubai from the UK is all about striking a balance between comfort and cultural awareness. With this guide, you now know what to pack for Dubai with confidence—no guesswork, no stress.
For more tailored tips on Dubai travel for UK tourists, check out:
- Dubai airport guide: What UK travellers should expect
- Best travel insurance options for UK residents visiting Dubai
- Tips for booking cheap flights from London/Manchester/Birmingham to Dubai
FAQs
Can I wear shorts and sleeveless tops in Dubai?
Yes, but only in appropriate settings. At resorts or private beaches, casual clothing is fine. In public, it is best to keep shoulders and knees covered to respect cultural norms.
Do I need a power adapter for UK devices?
No. Dubai uses the same plug type and voltage as the UK, so your chargers and electronics will work without an adapter.
Should I bring cash or use cards in Dubai?
Cards are accepted almost everywhere. Still, carry a small amount of cash in dirhams (AED) for tips, taxis, and small shops.
Is sunscreen expensive in Dubai?
Yes, especially in tourist areas. Bring your preferred high-SPF sunscreen from the UK to save money and avoid skin damage.
What should I wear to visit a mosque?
Women must cover their arms, legs, and head with a scarf. Men should wear long trousers and sleeved shirts. Carry modest layers for spontaneous visits.
