Packing for Dubai stresses people out. I have seen women spiral into anxiety over what to bring, convinced they will either offend someone or melt in inappropriate fabric.
Let me simplify this for you: You can absolutely be modest AND stylish AND comfortable in Dubai. The two are not mutually exclusive – in fact, the loose, flowy styles that work best in Dubai’s heat happen to be gorgeous.
Here is exactly what to pack for 7-10 days in Dubai, broken down by activity so you are never caught wondering what to wear.
The Dress Code Reality
First, let us clear up the confusion. Dubai is more relaxed than you have probably heard.
The baseline rule: Cover your shoulders and knees in malls, public spaces, and when visiting mosques or cultural sites. That is genuinely it.
At your hotel, resort, beach club, or pool? Wear whatever you want – bikinis, crop tops, whatever makes you feel good. The dress code applies to public areas, not private resort spaces.
For evening dining at upscale restaurants, dress up. Dubai is a city that loves glamour – this is your chance to wear that statement dress you have been saving.
For detailed information on cultural considerations, check out: Is Dubai Safe for Black Women? Everything You Need to Know
Outfit Formulas That Work
Instead of overthinking individual pieces, think in outfit formulas. Here is what works for every Dubai scenario:
Daytime Sightseeing
Think: Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Gold Souk, cultural tours
- Flowy maxi dress in a breathable fabric (linen, cotton, or lightweight viscose)
- Wide-leg pants plus elegant loose top
- Comfortable sandals with good support (you will walk more than you expect)
- Crossbody bag to keep hands free
- Sunglasses and a hat for sun protection
Colors: Light tones reflect heat better. Cream, white, blush, sage, and soft pastels photograph beautifully against Dubai’s architecture.
Desert Safari
The desert gets dusty and the dune bashing is bumpy. Dress accordingly.
- Loose, comfortable pants (not white – sand gets everywhere)
- Breathable top that covers shoulders
- Closed-toe shoes or sturdy sandals with ankle straps
- Light scarf or shawl for wind and sand protection
- Skip heavy jewelry that might get lost or uncomfortable
Beach and Pool Days
At resort pools, beach clubs, and hotel beaches – wear your regular swimwear. Dubai’s beach clubs are glamorous affairs.
- Your favorite swimsuits (pack 2-3 to rotate)
- Chic cover-up for walking through the hotel
- Statement sunglasses
- Waterproof sandals
- SPF – the sun is intense
Beach clubs like Nikki Beach, Zero Gravity, and Drift are see-and-be-seen spots. Pack at least one swimsuit that makes you feel like a million bucks.
Yacht Day
If your itinerary includes a yacht excursion (it should), this is your main character moment.
- Glamorous resort wear – think elegant cover-ups, flowy pants, silk tops
- Swimsuit underneath
- Strappy sandals
- Oversized sunglasses
- Statement jewelry
Evening Dining
Dubai takes dinner seriously. Upscale restaurants have dress codes, and honestly? It is refreshing to have an excuse to get fancy.
- Statement midi or maxi dress
- Elevated jumpsuit
- Heels (most restaurants have smooth floors and valet)
- Evening clutch or small bag
- Your best jewelry
Pro tip: Restaurants are heavily air-conditioned. Bring a light wrap or shawl – you will want it.
The Master Packing List
For a 7-10 day Dubai trip, here is what to pack:
Clothing
- 4-5 daytime outfits (mix and match tops and bottoms)
- 2-3 maxi dresses (most versatile piece)
- 2-3 swimsuits
- 2 beach or pool cover-ups
- 2-3 evening outfits (at least one statement piece)
- 1 desert safari outfit
- 1 yacht day outfit
- Light cardigan or wrap for AC
- Pajamas
- Undergarments (bring extra – you will change more than usual)
Shoes
- Comfortable walking sandals (stylish but supportive)
- Pool or beach sandals
- 1-2 pairs of heels for evenings
- Closed-toe shoes for desert (optional but recommended)
Resist the urge to bring five pairs of heels. Dubai hotels have marble floors that look stunning but can be slippery – stick to stable, walkable options.
Accessories
- Large sunglasses (non-negotiable)
- Wide-brim hat or stylish cap
- Light scarf (for sun, AC, mosque visits)
- Statement jewelry for evenings
- Crossbody day bag
- Evening clutch
Beauty and Toiletries
- High-SPF sunscreen (reef-safe preferred)
- Hydrating face mist
- Rich moisturizer (AC dries skin out)
- Makeup (keep it light for day – full glam for evening if you want)
- Hair products that handle humidity
- Razors, toiletries, medications
Note: Dubai has incredible shopping, including Sephora, MAC, and luxury beauty brands. If you forget something, you can find it. Do not stress.
Electronics and Practical Items
- Phone and charger
- Camera if you prefer one
- Universal power adapter (Type G outlets, same as UK)
- Portable charger (you will take a lot of photos)
- Passport and copies
- Travel insurance documents
What NOT to Pack
Save yourself some suitcase space:
- Skip: Heavy fabrics like denim and thick cotton – you will overheat
- Skip: Excessive shoes – three pairs max for evening heels
- Skip: New shoes you have not broken in (blisters in Dubai heat equals misery)
- Skip: Anything too tight – loose fits are both modest and comfortable
- Reconsider: All-white outfits for the desert (sand, dust, and white do not mix)
Pro Tips From Divas Who Have Been There
- Leave room in your suitcase. Dubai shopping is incredible, and you will buy things – gold, designer pieces, spices, textiles. Pack a foldable bag for the return trip.
- Fabrics matter more than styles. Linen, cotton, and moisture-wicking blends are your friends. Polyester in desert heat is your enemy.
- Layer for the AC. Dubai’s air conditioning is aggressive. A light cardigan goes from unnecessary outside to essential inside.
- One statement piece per outfit. Dubai is glamorous, but you do not need to overdo it. A great dress with simple accessories or a simple outfit with bold jewelry both work.
- Bring one just in case dressy outfit. You might get invited somewhere unexpected. Having one elevated option saves stress.
Ready to Pack for Dubai?
Dubai Glam 2026 Is Waiting
February 7-15, 2026 | Desert Safari | Yacht Day | Five-Star Luxury | Sisterhood
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For the complete guide to everything Dubai – what to see, eat, and experience – read: The Black Woman’s Ultimate Guide to Dubai: Luxury, Culture, and the Soft Life
Got packing questions? Drop them in the comments or ask in our Facebook community – 150,000+ Divas are happy to share their Dubai tips.
Now go pack that suitcase, baby. Dubai is waiting.
– Travel Divas
