What to Pack for the United Arab Emirates, From Desert Heat to Ice-Cold AC
From 113°F desert days to ice-cold AC in malls, pack breathable linen, a UV hat, dark sunglasses and electrolytes, plus a light scarf and long sleeves for mosques, a modest cover-up over swimwear, and smart shoes for luxe dinners.
Updated on October 29, 2025
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Packing for the United Arab Emirates can feel contradictory: fierce desert heat outside, chilly air conditioning inside, and venues that reward polish while public spaces ask for modesty. This guide explains what works by season and setting, how locals keep cool yet covered, and the few things to skip so your bag stays light. The simple formula is breathable coverage with a polished finish.
Day to night moves quickly here. In malls and cafés the look is tidy and understated, with flowing silhouettes, muted sand and navy tones, and shoes that handle distance. Evenings skew refined in upscale restaurants and lounges, but not flashy. Public areas favor covered shoulders and knees, while hotel beaches and pools are relaxed. Aim for coverage without bulk.
Weather shapes everything. Summer often sits at 100–122°F with coastal humidity, and the shamal can kick up fine dust in the air. Winters are gentle at roughly 59–77°F, with cooler nights on the water and short bursts of rain. Expect strong indoor AC that makes midday malls feel crisp. Pack a light layer for indoor chill.
To make choices easy, the guide moves from sun protection and breathable, modest wardrobe building to footwear that works on sand and polished floors. Then come seasonal tweaks, activity picks for city sightseeing, desert safaris, beach and mall days, fine dining and mosque visits, plus electronics and money basics, what not to pack, and the common mistakes to avoid.
Part 1: Packing Essentials
Packing List
Adults
Clothing
Footwear
Essentials
Kids Clothing
Kids Footwear
Infant Clothing
Infant Essentials
Daily Day Bag Checklist — United Arab Emirates
What you'll carry for a typical day exploring the city.
Part 2: Style & Weather
UAE Weather: Sun, Sand & Seasonal Packing
United Arab Emirates has an arid, sun-soaked climate with extreme summer heat and humid coastal pockets. Coastal highs commonly hit 100-122°F in summer and nights stay hot; winter days are pleasantly mild around 59-77°F. Short winter rains and dusty shamal winds create microclimates. Expect sharp indoor-outdoor AC contrasts; pack breathable sun protection, lightweight layers and modest cover-ups.
Monthly Temperature Guide
| Month | High | Low |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | 75°F | 57°F |
| Feb | 77°F | 59°F |
| Mar | 82°F | 63°F |
| Apr | 91°F | 70°F |
| May | 100°F | 77°F |
| Jun | 104°F | 84°F |
| Jul | 108°F | 88°F |
| Aug | 106°F | 88°F |
| Sep | 102°F | 82°F |
| Oct | 97°F | 77°F |
| Nov | 88°F | 68°F |
| Dec | 79°F | 59°F |
Seasonal Insights
spring
Spring (Mar-May) varies from about 64-90°F: warm days and cooler mornings. Pack breathable long-sleeve shirts, loose trousers, a light linen blazer or thin windbreaker for shamal gusts, a scarf for mosques and sudden showers.
summer
Summer (Jun-Sep) is extreme: coastal humidity and 100-122°F highs with blazing sun. Focus on SPF, wide-brim hats, UV shirts, loose linen or technical tops that cover shoulders, breathable trousers, and carry a lightweight cover-up for intense indoor AC.
fall
Fall (Oct-Nov) shifts from hot 86-100°F early to milder 68-82°F by late season. Pack mix-and-match dresses, midi skirts or loose trousers, a light cardigan for cool evenings, breathable closed-toe shoes for dusty promenades and dune visits.
winter
Winter (Dec-Feb) is peak season: pleasant 59-77°F days and cooler 50-64°F mornings. Ideal for sightseeing, desert safaris and beach days. Pack lightweight layers, a versatile blazer or thin jacket, modest outfits for mosques and a small umbrella.
UAE Style Compass: Sun, Modesty & Desert-Ready Looks
Style in the United Arab Emirates balances intense sun and humidity with ultra‑cooled indoor life and high-fashion expectations. Embrace flowing, breathable silhouettes and lightweight fabrics that provide coverage, cooling and a refined look for malls, resorts, mosque visits and desert excursions—all while prioritizing sun protection and easy transitions between daytime heat and chilled interiors.
The Local Dress Code
Public spaces favour modesty: shoulders and knees should generally be covered, especially at mosques and cultural sites. Upscale restaurants and nightlife expect smart‑casual to formal dress. Reserve revealing swimwear for private hotel beaches and pools. During Ramadan, dress more conservatively and be mindful of local norms.
Blend sun protection, modest silhouettes and polished evening wear. Pack breathable layers that move from hot 40°C days and cool AC interiors to beaches, mosques and fine dining with ease.
Style at a Glance
- • Flowing, breathable silhouettes for coverage without bulk
- • Lightweight linen, cotton and technical wicks for heat and humidity
- • Mix smart‑casual evening pieces for fine dining and nightlife
- • Pack scarves or shawls for mosques and sudden AC chills
- • Shoes: breathable sneakers, leather sandals, smart loafers
Color Palette
Shopping in the City
Shop a mix of Emirati designers, resort wear and technical sun gear. Prioritise lightweight fabrics, scarves for modesty, and versatile evening pieces; malls offer international labels, boutiques spotlight regional designers.
Brands to Look For
Rami Al Ali: Known for couture and elevated eveningwear—ideal for formal dinners and events with a regional sensibility and luxe finishes. ($$$)
Noon By Noor: Contemporary Emirati label with refined ready‑to‑wear that balances modest silhouettes and modern tailoring for daytime and office looks. ($$ - $$$)
Madiyah Al Sharqi: Resort and occasion wear featuring airy kaftans, delicate embroideries and pieces that transition from beach to city effortlessly. ($$ - $$$)
House of Nomad: Local contemporary brand offering elevated basics, linen staples and accessories suited to humid coastal climates. ($ - $$)
Desert Bloom: Specialises in sunwear and technical resort pieces—coverups, UPF scarves and lightweight layers made for desert and beach days. ($ - $$)
The Modest Edit: Curated modest fashion label focusing on versatile midi dresses, loose trousers and breathable fabrics for culturally aware travel. ($ - $$)
Where to Shop
The Dubai Mall: Luxury labels, large department stores and all major international retailers.
Gold Souk & Deira: Traditional markets, jewellery and small clothing stalls with bargaining culture.
Alserkal Avenue: Independent boutiques, regional designers and contemporary concept stores.
Neighborhood Vibes
Dubai Marina: Resort‑luxury: polished, fitted linen and light silks for sunset promenades, leather sandals and low heels for waterfront dining; sunglasses and fine minimal jewellery complete looks.
Al Fahidi Historic District: Heritage‑minded and modest: breathable long shirts, midi skirts, lightweight scarves and closed sandals for exploring courtyards and museums while respecting cultural sites.
Downtown Abu Dhabi: City smart with conservative polish: flowing trousers, structured kaftans or linen blazers, loafers or smart sandals for galleries, malls and refined dining.
Seasonal Outfit Formulas
spring
Marina Morning Stroll — Leisurely waterfront walk and café stop in mild 18–25°C mornings.
- • White linen long-sleeve shirt: Breathable coverage for sun and AC
- • Lightweight linen wide-leg trousers
- • Breathable white leather sneakers: Comfortable for promenades and malls
- • Large cotton scarf: Use for mosque entry or AC chill
Desert Sunrise Layering — Desert drive and sunrise photography—cool morning, warm day (10–28°C).
- • Lightweight cotton tunic
- • Loose tapered travel trousers
- • Thin merino travel cardigan: Packable layer for cool mornings and AC
- • Neutral leather sandals
- • Wide-brim straw sun hat
summer
Beach Club Resort — Private resort beach day—hot 35–45°C; use cover-up when off the sand.
Mall and Indoor Escapes — Midday mall shopping and indoor attractions—heavy AC, hot outside 40°C+.
fall
Cultural District Walk — Explore museums and historic sites—pleasant days 20–30°C with dusty breezes possible.
Dhow Cruise Evening — Coastal cruise at sunset—breezy evenings, pack a layer for 18–22°C.
- • Light silk blouse
- • Structured midi skirt
- • Smart leather loafers
- • Packable lightweight blazer: Adds polish and warmth for breezy decks
winter
Weekend City Casual — Mild winter days ideal for cafés and promenades—daytime 20–25°C, cooler 12–16°C mornings.
- • Cotton long-sleeve tee
- • Dark wash straight leg jeans
- • Casual leather sneakers
- • Lightweight packable jacket: Windproof for dusty breezes and cool nights
Smart Dinner Night — Upscale dinner or theatre—opt for refined modesty and tailored silhouette.
Footwear Guidelines
- • Bring breathable sneakers for long walks and air‑conditioned malls; choose light mesh or leather for ventilation.
- • Pack leather sandals or dressy slides for resorts and smart‑casual dining; avoid flimsy flip‑flops for city streets.
- • Include smart loafers or low block heels for nightlife and formal venues—opt for stable soles on promenades.
- • Have water shoes or sturdy flip sandals for beaches and pools; avoid stilettos that sink into sand or damage polished floors.
Accessory Guidelines
- • Wide‑brim hat or UPF cap and high‑SPF sunscreen for daytime sun protection.
- • Large UV sunglasses with high UV rating to shield against glare and sand.
- • Light scarves or pashminas for mosque visits, sudden AC chills and modest coverage.
- • Small crossbody or hidden pouch to keep valuables discreet in crowded areas.
- • Minimal jewellery—choose pieces that won’t attract unwanted attention and are easy to remove for prayers or activities.
What to Wear for Every Adventure in the UAE
City Sightseeing
Explore Dubai and Abu Dhabi's promenades and cultural districts—comfortable, modest, climate-smart clothing keeps you cool and respectful.
Desert Safari
Dune drives and sunset photos require sun protection, practical footwear and timing to dodge midday heat — plan for sand and sudden winds.
Beach & Pool Days
Resort beaches and public coasts need quick-dry swimwear, sun safety and modest cover-ups for public areas; expect warm 25–35°C days and humid nights.
Mall Shopping & Indoor Entertainment
Malls are ultra‑air‑conditioned hubs — blend smart-casual style with comfortable shoes and a light layer for indoor chill.
Fine Dining & Nightlife
Upscale restaurants and rooftop bars expect smart, polished outfits — balance modesty with refined evening wear and check dress codes in advance.
Mosques & Cultural Sites
Respectful dress and behavior are required at religious sites—modest, breathable layers and a scarf make visits smooth and appropriate.
Boat Tours & Dhow Cruises
Coastal cruises give a cooler skyline view—pack sun protection, a lightweight layer for sea breeze and shoes that won’t slip on deck.
Part 3: Expert Tips
What Not to Pack for the United Arab Emirates
Save luggage space and avoid common overpacking mistakes by leaving these items behind.
- • Heavy winter coat: Heavy winter coats are unnecessary in the UAE where summers top 38–50°C and winters average 15–25°C. Instead bring a lightweight packable jacket or merino mid‑layer for cool 15°C evenings and strong indoor AC.
- • Stiletto heels: Thin stiletto heels sink in sand and are unstable on promenades and polished mall floors; they’re impractical for dune stops. Pack low block heels or smart loafers and leather sandals for nightlife and fine dining instead.
- • Excessive or flashy jewellery: Wearing lots of flashy jewellery draws unwanted attention in crowded souks and tourist areas and risks loss. Choose a few discreet pieces, travel insurance, or inexpensive costume items and use a hotel safe instead.
- • Revealing public swimwear: Very revealing swimwear is inappropriate in many public areas and during Ramadan; public beaches expect modesty. Reserve bold pieces for private hotel pools and pack a rash guard, swim dress or lightweight cover‑up for public beaches.
- • Bulky hiking boots: Large, heavy hiking boots trap sand and are overbuilt for mostly flat urban promenades and sandy dunes. Opt for breathable trail runners or lightweight leather boots that shed sand and double as smart city shoes.
- • Thick wool sweaters: Thick wool sweaters are heavy and too warm for typical UAE conditions; indoor AC can feel cold but 15–25°C winters rarely need bulky knits. Pack packable fleece, merino layers, or a light cashmere wrap instead.
- • Large amounts of cash: Carrying large cash sums is unnecessary—cards and contactless payments work almost everywhere. Bring a small amount of AED for taxis and markets, notify your bank, and use cards or secure digital wallets as alternatives.
- • Full‑size hair tools and heavy appliances: Full‑size hairdryers and straighteners are bulky, heavy, and often redundant because hotels supply them. Choose a compact travel dryer or lightweight styling tool and pack a Type G adapter instead of full appliances.
- • Only flip‑flops as footwear: Relying solely on flip‑flops limits mobility: they aren’t good for dune driving, long walks, or polished indoor floors. Bring a breathable sneaker and a smart leather sandal for versatility across beach, city and malls.
- • Large inflatable pool toys and oversized beach gear: Bulky inflatables take up luggage space, risk airline fees, and are awkward in windy or busy beaches. Rent locally or pack small floatation aids, a compact dry bag, or inflatable that fits your checked bag instead.
Insider Packing Tips for the United Arab Emirates
Local wisdom and practical advice gathered from seasoned travelers and residents.
- • Sunproof layers for city and desert: Summer often reaches 38–50°C; pack lightweight long sleeves, a breathable linen shirt and a wide‑brim hat to block sun. A scarf doubles as AC protection in malls and cover for cultural sites.
- • Beat indoor AC with thin layers: Indoor AC can drop to 18–22°C in malls and hotels. Carry a thin merino or synthetic layer to stay comfortable during sightseeing, dining, and long mall walks without overheating outdoors.
- • Modest pieces that still feel chic: Bring midi skirts, loose trousers and kaftans in breathable fabrics—shoulders and knees should be easy to cover for mosques and public spaces while keeping a polished evening look.
- • Footwear that handles sand and luxury: Choose breathable sneakers for walking, leather sandals for malls/resorts and a smart pair of loafers for dining. Avoid stilettos; sand and polished floors need stable, versatile soles.
- • Desert day kit for safaris: For dune trips pack sunglasses, a buff or scarf for sand, closed-toe shoes, small first-aid items and a Type G adapter. Operators may be remote with limited power and unpredictable winds.
- • Stay hydrated and fight the heat: Carry an insulated water bottle and electrolyte packets—heat can escalate quickly to 40°C+. Hydration prevents fatigue during city sightseeing or desert excursions.
- • Smart swimwear and resort cover-ups: Pack quick‑dry swimwear and a lightweight cover-up for hotel beaches and pool areas. Reserve more revealing pieces for private resort zones; public beaches expect modesty at times.
- • Sun protection essentials: High‑SPF sunscreen, broad sunglasses, and a wide hat are nonnegotiable. Coastal humidity increases UV reflection, so reapply sunscreen when boating or after towel drying near the shore.
- • Pack travel adaptors and a power bank: UAE uses Type G plugs and 220–240V. Bring a reliable Type G adapter and a high-capacity power bank for long desert drives or theme-park days when outlets are scarce.
- • Dress for Ramadan and cultural sensitivity: If visiting during Ramadan, pack modest daytime clothes and a lightweight shawl. Avoid eating or drinking in public during fasting hours out of respect and to follow local rules.
- • Protect fabrics from sand and humidity: Bring a small lint brush and zip pouches for swimwear; fine sand and coastal humidity can cling to fabrics. Quick‑dry materials and chiffon cover-ups clean and dry faster.
- • Plan transport for midday heat: Avoid long walks at midday in summer; rely on metros, taxis, or ride‑hail apps. Pack a light foldable umbrella for sudden winter showers and a hat for dusty shamal winds.
UAE Packing FAQs: Sun, Modesty & Desert Tips
Common questions from fellow travelers, answered with local insight and practical experience.
What clothing should I pack for UAE heat and indoor AC?
How modest should my outfits be in public and at religious sites?
What sun protection and hydration gear should I prioritize in the UAE?
Which shoes work best for sand, malls, and fine dining in the UAE?
Is swimwear acceptable at beaches, pools and hotel areas across the UAE?
How should I pack electronics and power accessories for travel in the UAE?
What should I know about visiting during summer versus winter seasons?
Common packing mistakes for the United Arab Emirates (and fixes)
Learn from others' experiences to avoid these common packing pitfalls and travel more comfortably.
Underestimating midday heat and indoor AC contrast
Daytime temperatures often hit 38–50°C while malls and hotels blast AC near 18–22°C. Pack breathable layers, a light scarf or thin jacket, sun hat, SPF and a reusable water bottle to manage both extremes.
Relying on tight synthetic clothes that trap sweat
Tight synthetics cling in humid coastlines and desert heat, causing discomfort and odor. Opt for linen, lightweight cotton or technical moisture-wicking fabrics, loose silhouettes, and quick‑dry underwear to stay cool and fresh.
Skipping modest cover-ups for mosques and Ramadan
Public spaces expect covered shoulders and knees and stricter norms during Ramadan. Pack lightweight scarves, long linen shirts, midi skirts or loose trousers and a modest kaftan or long dress to respect sites and avoid fines.
Packing the wrong shoes for sand, promenades and malls
Stilettos and heavy boots sink in dunes and scratch polished mall floors. Pack breathable sneakers for walking, leather sandals for city and resorts, smart loafers for evenings and water shoes or flip‑flops for beaches and pools.
Assuming outdoor activities run year‑round despite extreme heat
Many operators limit or shift desert safaris, dune activities and outdoor shows during summer when temps reach 38–50°C. Check schedules, book early morning or evening slots, carry electrolytes, sun protection and a backup indoor plan.
Ready for Your Adventure
You're set to embrace the United Arab Emirates with ease and style. Remember to pack high-SPF sun protection, a wide-brim hat and breathable linen or chiffon cover-ups for 38-50°C sun, mosque visits and icy 20-25°C indoor AC; bring a Type G adapter and a power bank for desert trips. Blend modest, flowing silhouettes with elegant shoes for malls and fine dining. From golden dunes to gleaming skylines, go confident, the UAE rewards curious, respectful travelers.
