What Should You Pack for Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi’s hot weather means packing lightweight, breathable clothing is key! For spring, summer, and fall, you’ll want short sleeves, tank tops, and breezy dresses to stay cool. Winters are pleasant but can get chilly in the evenings, so pack a light sweater or jacket. Keep in mind the cultural expectations—it’s best to pack some modest clothing for public spaces, especially if you plan to visit places like Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. And don’t forget sun protection—sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are essentials!
Make sure you’re prepared for: Visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, relaxing at Corniche Beach, exploring Yas Island’s attractions, and going on a desert safari.
Dress Code
Abu Dhabi is a modern city, but it still holds onto its cultural roots. While at beaches and resorts, you can dress more casually in swimwear, but in public spaces, modest attire is important. Covering shoulders and knees is recommended when visiting mosques or traditional markets. For dining out, especially in high-end restaurants or at events, you’ll want to pack a stylish outfit. Whether you’re at Yas Island or a desert safari, remember to dress comfortably but respect local customs.
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Spring
70 – 95°F
(21 – 35°C
)
Summer
95 – 110°F
(35 – 43°C
)
Fall
80 – 95°F
(27 – 35°C
)
Winter
60 – 75°F
(16 – 24°C
)
Spring: Warm, with sunny skies and cooler evenings
Summer: Extremely hot and humid, with clear skies
Fall: Hot days with cooler nights and low humidity
Winter: Pleasant and sunny
Spring
0.5 inches of rain
Summer
0 inches of rain
Fall
0.1 inches of rain
Winter
1.3 inches of rain
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Great for exploring Yas Island and outdoor attractions—I loved having these for casual outings in the warm weather!
2. Tank Tops: Perfect for relaxing by the pool or lounging at the beach.
3. Long Sleeve Shirts: Ideal for cooler evenings and when visiting indoor, air-conditioned spaces.
4. Sweater: A light sweater for evenings or indoor places like malls.
5. Casual Jacket: Ideal for winter evenings or desert safari trips.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable for city exploring and modest enough for public places—I really liked these for their versatility in Abu Dhabi.
2. Leggings: Great for layering under long tops or dresses for added comfort.
3. Shorts: Perfect for private beaches or pool days, but pack modest shorts for public areas.
4. Dresses: Light, flowy dresses are perfect for casual evenings and beach days—I loved wearing a simple dress for dining out.
5. Skirt: Stylish and comfortable for exploring the city’s cafes or malls.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable shoes are key for walking around places like Yas Mall—I loved how versatile these were for sightseeing.
2. Sandals: Perfect for casual beach days or lounging by the pool.
3. Hat: A wide-brimmed hat is essential for sun protection while exploring outdoor attractions like Corniche Beach.
4. Sunglasses: A must-have for protecting your eyes from the strong desert sun.
5. Swimsuit: Necessary for enjoying the beaches, pools, and water parks.
6. Sarong: Perfect for covering up when transitioning from the pool to public areas.
7. Beach Coverup: Great for relaxing by the pool in style while staying modest.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Ideal for a short trip or weekend getaway.
2. Daypack: Great for carrying essentials while exploring Yas Island or the Corniche.
3. Purse: A stylish yet practical purse for shopping or dining out.
4. Tote Bag: Useful for carrying beach essentials or extra shopping finds.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Modest clothing: It’s recommended to dress conservatively in public areas, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Light fabrics: The heat in Abu Dhabi can be intense, so packing lightweight, breathable clothes is important.
- Comfortable shoes: Abu Dhabi is a walking-friendly city, especially in places like Yas Island and the Corniche, so pack comfortable footwear.
- Sun protection: A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential to protect against the strong desert sun.
Abu Dhabi Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ABU DHABI?
November to March is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi, as the weather is cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities. Temperatures range from 60 to 75°F (16 to 24°C), making it perfect for desert safaris and beach visits. November’s also great because it coincides with the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, a major event that attracts visitors from around the world!
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN ABU DHABI?
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (November): A world-famous Formula 1 race held on Yas Island, ideal for solo travelers and groups.
Abu Dhabi Art Fair (November): A contemporary art fair showcasing global talent, perfect for art lovers and couples.
Qasr Al Hosn Festival (February): Celebrates Emirati heritage through music, art, and crafts, great for families and history enthusiasts.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN ABU DHABI?
Abu Dhabi is full of cultural and modern wonders. One of my favorite places is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, where you can see breathtaking Islamic architecture. Be sure to visit Yas Island for adventure—whether it’s Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, or Warner Bros. World. Corniche Beach is perfect for relaxation, and the Louvre Abu Dhabi offers a stunning art collection in a unique building. Don’t miss the desert safari for an unforgettable Arabian experience.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT ABU DHABI?
4-5 days is ideal for seeing Abu Dhabi’s top attractions, including Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Yas Island, and a desert safari. A shorter visit can cover major highlights.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, explore the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and enjoy dinner at the Corniche. Spend day two at Yas Island, exploring Ferrari World and relaxing at Yas Beach.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, visit Qasr Al Watan and the Emirates Palace. Spend day four exploring Saadiyat Island’s art and culture. On day five, take a desert safari and enjoy an evening of traditional Emirati entertainment.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: On day six, visit the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital for a unique experience. Spend day seven shopping at Marina Mall and relaxing at Corniche Beach.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, explore Al Ain, the UAE’s garden city, and visit the Al Ain Oasis. Spend day nine visiting Abu Dhabi’s heritage villages. On day ten, enjoy kayaking in the mangroves.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: On day eleven, take a trip to Sir Bani Yas Island for wildlife viewing. Spend day twelve exploring the Empty Quarter desert. On days thirteen and fourteen, relax at one of Abu Dhabi’s luxury beach resorts.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN ABU DHABI?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Sweater
- 1 Dress
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Sweaters
- 2 Dresses
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 3 Dresses
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Sweaters
- 4 Dresses
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Casual Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR ABU DHABI?
Heavy winter coat: Winters are mild, so you won’t need bulky clothing.
High heels: Comfortable shoes are a better choice for walking around places like Yas Island.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO ABU DHABI ?
Airfare: $500-$1,200 depending on your starting location and season, with prices higher during peak travel seasons.
Accommodation: $100-$400 per night depending on whether you stay in budget hotels or luxury resorts.
Transportation: $10-$20 per day for taxis or ridesharing services.
Meals: $30-$80 per day, depending on whether you eat at casual restaurants or high-end dining spots.
Activities: $20-$100 per day for entry to attractions like Ferrari World or desert safaris.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN ABU DHABI? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Yes, tipping is appreciated in Abu Dhabi, especially in restaurants and hotels. It’s typical to tip 10-15% in restaurants, and small tips are welcome for hotel staff and taxi drivers.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT ABU DHABI BEFORE I VISIT?
- Dress modestly: Cover shoulders and knees when in public spaces, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Stay hydrated: The desert heat can be intense, so always carry water.
- Avoid the midday sun: Plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening to avoid the hottest part of the day.
- Use public transportation: Abu Dhabi’s taxis and buses are affordable and reliable for getting around.