I really didn’t have a clue how to pack for our trip to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. I had been to the Middle East the year before when we spent 10 days traveling independently around Jordan, but this was different. It was going to be hot. The forecast ranged from high 80s to low 90s during our visit and I wanted to be respectful without sweating to death (though sweating off 5 or 10 pounds would have been okay with me). So here are my tips for how to pack for Dubai:
At the Pool, Beach, or Water Park
Bikinis can be worn at your hotel pool, water parks like Aquaventure at the Atlantis, and even at the beach. But remember, you may need to walk through your hotel lobby to reach the pool or beach, so be sure to pack a coverup. Wrapping a beach towel around you is not sufficient.
Dining Out
Feel free to dress up! Dubai’s residents like to put on their finest and it is acceptable to bare your shoulders when dining out in the evening. Carry a pashmina or scarf that you can drape around your shoulders on the way to and from dinner. Many restaurants keep the air conditioning quite cool to combat the heat outside, so your scarf will come in handy for keeping warm!
At the Malls and Souks
Modest clothing is required for entering the various malls in Dubai and signs on the doors to the malls remind you of that fact. The best rule of thumb is to be covered from your shoulder to your knees. That means no spaghetti straps, tank tops, mini skirts, or shorts. Short sleeves are okay, but it is best to wear at least 3/4 length sleeves.
On Desert Safari
The one place it is a-okay to wear shorts and tank tops in Dubai is when you’re going on a desert safari. Safari trips generally begin in the afternoon (our pick-up was 3pm) to combat desert heat and show you the stunning sunsets in the Arabian Desert. Temperatures can quickly drop once the sun goes down, so I was quite comfortable in cropped pants, a tank top, and a light 3/4 sleeve cardigan that I brought with me for the evening. Wear flip-flops or sandals. The sand is actually wonderful to walk around barefoot in!
At the Mosque
The dress code at mosques open to visitors is strictly enforced. The dress code for women is long pants or skirts, long-sleeve shirts or tops, and hair must be covered with a scarf at all times while on the grounds of the mosque. Bring a scarf with you. If your clothing is deemed inappropriate, the mosque will gladly lend you an abaya (long black gown) to wear during your visit.
Ali says
Great tips! Many people who don’t have experience traveling to more modest areas might not realize how you need to dress.
Jennifer Dombrowski says
Thanks, Ali! Even with experience traveling to Jordan, I still had a difficult time packing. I hope others find the list helpful!
Katherina says
Great tips! When I visited Lebanon a few years ago, all of the girls received a black burka at the entrance, that would cover legs, arms and also hair.
Jennifer Dombrowski says
It’s great that mosques provide a burka, but I think it is also important to dress appropriately in the country you are visiting. We observed so many in Dubai that were not dressed appropriately and it just feels rude to the culture. I know it’s hot, but you can layer and still feel cool and fashionable.
fon says
Thank you so much for the very useful information. I went to Dubai and Abu Dhabi many times, but it was only for transfering the flights. I would like to really explore the really cities:) nice photos, nice articles and absolutely nice couple 🙂
Jennifer Dombrowski says
You should definitely visit Dubai and Abu Dhabi! Great cities to explore with a wide range of activities. I’m glad to hear you found the tips helpful!
Jennifer Mercier-Bone says
Very helpful! We leave next Thursday for Dubai.
Jennifer Dombrowski says
Glad you found the packing tips helpful, Jennifer! What do you have planned in Dubai? We loved it there!
Michael Nichol says
Hey, Im headed out to Dubai for nine days(solo). Thanks for the various tips. I live in Atlanta, GA.
Hillary says
Great tips and explanations! My husband and I are going for new years and everything I’ve read has been very conflicting so I appreciate the examples and honest suggestions.
sandra says
One HAS to be crazy to visit those countries…
Have a “glass of wine” buy a book about the culture– READ the damn Koran at the comfort of your own home.
I will NEVER support (give my money by travel) to those countries that enforce the SHARIA.
WAKE UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you!
Jennifer Dombrowski says
Well, that’s your decision to not visit Sandra. We quite enjoy the Middle East and will continue to visit. There is absolutely nothing crazy about it.
Sara says
Wake up and what Sandra? Live life in your little box scared of all the strange noises outside your comfort zone? No thanks I’d rather stay asleep and have luxery holidays in Dubai 😉
David Motlafi says
This advise has been very helpful. Flying out tomorrow 20 Jan 2016
Phenice says
Hello and thanks for the comments regarding Dubai. So just to clarify, no tank tops or spaghetti straps in public. I want to be respectful on all levels. So simply put, is short sleeve shirts are ok?
Andrew says
I just love the food, the culture and the people there. Dubai is an awesome place to visit.
Shell says
Hello did you use a travel agent to Dubai? If so what company?
Jennifer Dombrowski says
Hi Shell,
No, we did not use a travel agent. We plan all of our own travel. Dubai is very easy to travel to independently.