Trip readiness checklist for United Arab Emirates
The UAE is more relaxed than its reputation — but the rules that do exist are enforced, and 'I didn't know' isn't a defense. Here's the trip-readiness checklist for United Arab Emirates: what to pack, when to go, entry rules for your passport, and the official sources to confirm before you fly.
Build my checklistEntry rules for a US passport
30 days on a free visa-on-arrival for US passports, extendable once inside
30 days on a free visa-on-arrival for US passports, extendable once inside.
- US passport valid at least 6 months beyond arrival
- Proof of onward or return travel — a booking on your phone is enough
- Prescription medicines: carry the prescription and check the UAE's controlled-medicines list — some common US medications need prior approval
Source: U.S. Department of State, checked September 14, 2026. Other passports get their own answer in the app. Confirm at the official source before you book.
What to pack
The UAE is glossy and hot, and more relaxed on dress than you might fear — but still modest in public. Pack light, breathable clothes plus something that covers shoulders and knees for malls and mosques.
Lightweight, modest clothing
It's very hot; light fabrics help. Cover shoulders and knees in malls, mosques, and public areas — beaches and pools are relaxed.
A light layer for indoors
Air conditioning is arctic in malls, hotels, and restaurants.
Strong sun protection
Desert sun is intense most of the year.
Modest cover for mosque visits
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque requires covered arms and legs (and hair for women); robes are sometimes provided.
When to go
Winter (Nov–Mar) is the pleasant, peak season; summer (Jun–Sep) is brutally hot (45°C+) and best spent indoors. Note Ramadan shifts daytime hours and dining — check the dates for your trip.
Money & getting around
The UAE uses the dirham (AED), pegged to the US dollar. Cards are accepted nearly everywhere; carry a little cash for taxis and souks (where you should haggle). Tipping is customary — round up or ~10–15%. Dubai's Metro is cheap and easy with a Nol card.
Local quirks worth knowing
The UAE is more relaxed than its reputation — but the rules that do exist are enforced, and 'I didn't know' isn't a defense.
Public affection: keep it minimal
Hand-holding is tolerated for couples; kissing in public genuinely isn't. Save it for the hotel.
Ramadan changes daytime rules
Eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight is prohibited during the holy month. Check whether your dates overlap.
Ask before photographing people
Especially women and families — it's both etiquette and law. Government buildings are off-limits for photos too.
Right hand for everything social
Eating, passing items, handshakes. The left hand has other jobs in this part of the world.
A week in United Arab Emirates, the list starts here
Quantities scale with your dates, the weather groups arrive once we have your travel days, and your own plans add their gear on Trip Pass.
- Passport & travel documents1
- Phone charger & adapter1
- Wallet, cards & some local cash1
- Toiletries bag1
- Any daily medicationsenough for the trip
- Underwear7
- Socks7
- T-shirts / tops5
What am I forgetting?
A real answer from Trip Happens for a sample week in United Arab Emirates, departing in five weeks with a checked bag and nothing packed yet. Yours is built from your own trip.
Five weeks out, a week in Dubai. Three gaps stand out.
- 1.
The controlled-medicines list
The entry guide flags that some common US medications need prior approval in the UAE, and asks you to carry the prescription. Check your own medications against the official list now, while 35 days is still enough time to get approval.
- 2.
Proof of onward travel
Your visa on arrival depends on showing a return or onward booking, and the guide says a booking on your phone is enough. Save yours somewhere you can open without signal at immigration.
- 3.
Something covering shoulders and knees
Late October in Dubai is still hot, but malls and mosques expect modest dress. Add one light long-sleeve layer and loose trousers to the bag alongside the breathable clothes.
Entry, advisories & health
These change. Confirm at the official source before you book.
Entry and visa requirements depend on your nationality. Confirm the current rules for United Arab Emirates with the official source below before you book.
U.S. State Department travel advisory for United Arab Emirates — check the current level and any alerts before you go.
CDC traveler health page for United Arab Emirates — recommended vaccines, health notices, and a packing checklist.
Get the full United Arab Emirates checklist
Add your dates and passport and we build the complete, checkable list: weather-aware packing, crowd forecasts, entry rules for your passport, and free advisory alerts if anything changes before you fly. Free, no sign-up needed.
Start my trip