Dubai and Abu Dhabi packing list for families
Dubai and Abu Dhabi swing between scorching sun outside and chilly air-conditioning inside. A few modest pieces and smart layers will take your family from the beach to the mosque to the dunes.
Photo by David Rodrigo on Unsplash
Kristina's notes on Dubai & Abu Dhabi
- Indoor spaces are kept very cold, so I always carry a light cardigan for each child, even when it is 100°F outside.
- The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has a strict dress code. Women and girls need long sleeves, long pants or skirts, and a head covering, so pack these in your day bag.
- Even in winter the sun is strong. Plan beach and pool time for mornings and late afternoons, and save the middle of the day for indoor attractions.
Dubai & Abu Dhabi
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Carry-on8
Clothing6
Shoes2
Beach & pool1
Little ones5
Health & toiletries4
Documents & tech5
City neutrals
Navy, cream, camel, olive
For the grown-ups
- A trench or chore jacket
- White sneakers
- One dinner outfit that packs flat
For the kids
- Cozy knits that layer
- Navy or olive leggings and joggers
- A raincoat with a hood
For photos
- Neutrals plus one red scarf or hat
- Overcast days flatter everyone
Dubai & Abu Dhabi weather and what's happening
Typical daytime highs and what each month feels like with kids.
| Month | Typical high | What it's like | Don't miss |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 75°F 24°C | Warm, sunny, and comfortable, with cooler evenings | Dubai Shopping Festival brings events, fireworks, and sales Outdoor season, when Global Village and desert camps are open |
| February | 77°F 25°C | Warm, sunny, and comfortable, with cooler evenings | Outdoor season, when Global Village and desert camps are open |
| March | 82°F 28°C | Warm, sunny, and comfortable, with cooler evenings | Outdoor season, when Global Village and desert camps are open |
| April | 90°F 32°C | Hot days and warm nights; beach mornings are still pleasant | Outdoor season, when Global Village and desert camps are open |
| May | 98°F 37°C | Hot days and warm nights; beach mornings are still pleasant | |
| June | 102°F 39°C | Extreme heat and humidity, best spent indoors or in the water | Summer kids' deals at indoor parks and hotels |
| July | 104°F 40°C | Extreme heat and humidity, best spent indoors or in the water | Summer kids' deals at indoor parks and hotels |
| August | 104°F 40°C | Extreme heat and humidity, best spent indoors or in the water | Summer kids' deals at indoor parks and hotels |
| September | 101°F 38°C | Extreme heat and humidity, best spent indoors or in the water | |
| October | 95°F 35°C | Still hot, but cooling down toward the end of the month | Outdoor season, when Global Village and desert camps are open |
| November | 86°F 30°C | Warm, sunny, and comfortable, with cooler evenings | Outdoor season, when Global Village and desert camps are open Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend, when hotels book up early |
| December | 78°F 26°C | Warm, sunny, and comfortable, with cooler evenings | Dubai Shopping Festival brings events, fireworks, and sales Outdoor season, when Global Village and desert camps are open Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend, when hotels book up early |
Dubai & Abu Dhabi with kids, answered
When is the best time to visit Dubai & Abu Dhabi with kids?
The best time is Nov–Mar. Extreme heat and humidity, best spent indoors or in the water
What's the weather like in Dubai & Abu Dhabi?
Typical daytime highs range from about 75°F (24°C) in January to about 104°F (40°C) in July. See the month-by-month table on this page.
Do I need a passport for Dubai & Abu Dhabi?
Yes. Bring a passport for everyone, including babies, and make sure each one is valid for at least six months past your trip. Check visa and entry rules before you go.
What kind of plug adapter do I need for Dubai & Abu Dhabi?
Type G, bring an adapter.
What's your top tip for Dubai & Abu Dhabi with kids?
Indoor spaces are kept very cold, so I always carry a light cardigan for each child, even when it is 100°F outside.
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I'm Kristina, and planning family trips is what I do.
As a luxury travel advisor with KM Luxe Travel, I plan the hotels, the flow of the days, and the little details, often with perks like breakfast and upgrades when available.