Top 5 things to take on your Dubai holiday

Lightweight, breathable fabrics are your best friend on a Dubai holiday. Whether shopping in the exquisite malls or heading on an exciting desert safari, wearing lightweight clothing will ensure a comfortable and more enjoyable experience, and remember, it’s all about style in Dubai! As a highly insta-worthy place, there are plenty of beautiful restaurants and immaculately presented hotels. So, if you’ve got an eye for fashion, how about accessorising your outfits with a sunhat, cap, or glasses? Not only will you fit in with Dubai’s glamour, but you’ll also be protected and stay cool in the hot sunshine. 

No matter when you visit, we recommend taking a light jacket or blazer. If you visit during winter, it’ll keep you warm in cool evenings, and if you visit during summer, the air conditioning in shopping malls and restaurants can be rather chilly.

Visiting religious sites? While Dubai’s not as strict as its neighbouring towns and cities, it’s still important to remain respectful and wear loose-fitting clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Though women don’t need to cover their heads unless entering a mosque, carrying a headscarf is advisable.

Home to plenty of sprawling sandy sweeps, beach essentials are a must. Firstly, swimming costume - there’s no better way to cool down from the city’s warm weather than by taking a refreshing dip in the sea! Secondly, flip-flops. Walking on hot sand can feel uncomfortable, but flip-flops or sandals will protect your feet, not to mention they’re easy to slip on and off. Thirdly, a beach towel. With multiple uses, it’s an absolute must for any beach day, no matter where you are! You can lie on it, use it to dry off, and wrap it around you if it gets a little chilly. Finally, and perhaps the most important of all beach essentials - sunscreen! The United Arab Emirates’ intense rays can be harmful to the skin – apply a generous amount before leaving your hotel, and don’t forget to keep reapplying, as this will help keep your skin safe. 

Pop all these beach essentials (and a water bottle, too) in your favourite beach bag, and you’re set for a stress-free day on the sand. But which beach will you choose? From Jumeirah Beach and Kite Beach to Black Palace Beach. Your paradise awaits in Dubai.

Feeling hungry and wondering what to wear in Dubai’s eateries? The dress code for Dubai’s bars and restaurants is smart casual to glamorous (leaning more towards the dressier side), depending on where you go. But which clothing items constitute smart casual? Ladies often wear a nice top, trousers, heels, or other smart shoes or boots. And men usually opt for a nice, tailored shirt, chino-inspired trousers, and closed-toe footwear. And, although essential to the beach, flip-flops are a no, no. Remember that people tend to dress up when dining in Dubai – it’s hard to believe this glitzy paradise was once a small fishing village with nothing but endless dunes and desert wilderness! 

If you don’t fancy routing through your wardrobe at home, head to Dubai’s high-street stores or luxury boutiques. You’re sure to find something you love!

These are absolute necessities for your Dubai holiday. For starters, money. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Dubai, but if you plan to use something else, keep in mind there may be expensive fees. If you’re taking cash, consider the exchange rates before your trip. Another essential is, of course, your mobile phone! And, unless your phone offers a good roaming deal, you can pick up a visitor’s SIM at the airport. 

While on holiday, it’s important you look after your health. If you need to travel with medication, visitors can bring a three-month supply to the UAE—depending on what it is. And finally, your documents! Don’t forget your passport. It’s also worth printing paper copies of your boarding pass and travel insurance details. This will give you complete peace of mind, as you’ll have a tangible and digital version. 

Because these are the essentials, get organised and put them all in one safe place. Nothing is worse than a last-minute panic before heading to the airport.

Dubai’s extravagant malls are one of the main attractions of the city. Regardless of where you’re staying, you’re never too far from an array of pretty shops. With luxury brands, high-street stores, souvenir shops, and more at your fingertips, this city is the definition of retail therapy. But where’s your first choice? The epic Dubai Mall, the Mall of the Emirates, Global Village, and the IBN Battuta Mall await your exploration. And let’s not forget about the treasure-filled souks, bazaars, and markets sprinkled around the city.

With many tempting shopping opportunities, an extra-large suitcase is essential. After all, why should limited luggage space ruin your shopping fun? If you’re likely to go on an extensive shopping spree, buying an extra-large case before your holiday is a great idea.