What to Pack for a Dubai Holiday in December and January

In the months of December and January, winter becomes a paradise-discover what to pack for a Dubai holiday, from light layers to chic evening wear. Dubai’s sunny winter days and cool pleasant evenings make sightseeing more pleasant. Tourists can enjoy breathtaking and spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks. They can experience the huge Dubai Shopping Festival. Also they can try out exhilarating desert adventures. Since the weather shifts during the day, you should dress in layers & carry a light jacket with you. To ensure comfort while sightseeing, here is the ultimate Dubai winter packing guide.

Understanding Dubai’s Winter Weather

Dubai’s winter season delivers the most ideal weather conditions. During this time, the day temperature usually ranges between 24 to 26°C. On the other hand, evening’s temperature drops to around 15°C. Tourists can still feel the chill of evening during their desert safari or Dubai Marina. For this reason, light layering becomes the most strategic advantage. Carry breathable fabric clothes which can be paired with a cardigan for the most comfortable clothing.

Clothing Essentials

• For Men:
  During the daytime, light cotton shirts with trousers are the best. Always wear breathable fabric clothes for city exploration. You can also wear shorts when going to beaches or waterparks. However, wear full trousers while visiting malls or mosques. For the chilly evenings, bring a light jacket or a hoodie. For bottoms, bring casual trousers or chinos of breathable fabric. For the footwear, prefer packing comfortable toe-closed shoes. Dubai’s winter temperature stays around at an optimal level during winter. Still you should always do everything carefully in advance for further convenience.
• For Women:
  For your daytime exploration, wear comfortable as well as elegant dress. Flowing maxi dresses & skirts will be a good choice with comfort & style. You can carry a light cardigan or a shawl with you as the sun sets. You can wear swimsuits at private pools and beaches. However, always cover your knees & shoulders while roaming in public areas. For footwear, bring comfortable sneakers or sandals for convenient exploration.

Style Tip: Dubai’s dressing style is modern yet respectful. Always cover your knees & shoulders while visiting malls, souks, cultural landmarks or any other conservative area.

Outerwear & Accessories

In Dubai at night it may drop a bit of a temperature so pack along a light sweater or cardigan. Also use sunglasses and wide brimmed hat and apply high SPF sunscreen. As for accessories, a tie that also serves as a scarf is a must have item. You can also bring along pashmina for the cold nights in the desert or in air conditioned malls and restaurants.

Beach & Pool Essentials

For relaxing at the water’s edge be sure to include in your packing swimwear. Hotel pools and private beaches will accept full size bikinis and standard swimsuits. Also bring a pair of flip flops for ease, and a high SPF sunscreen for the strong desert sun. Bringing after sun lotions will be more beneficial for you. As for clothing, a stylish beach cover up or kaftan is a must.

Other practical items

• Mosque visits: Choose simple clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, a headscarf is also required at religious sites for women.
• Electronics: Carry a power bank and charging cables to keep your devices running.
• Daily essentials: Bring a reusable or refillable water bottle & a small backpack.
• Documents: Carrying your passport is a must, also try to have digital copies as a second option.
• Connectivity: Get yourself a local SIM card and portable Wi-Fi device.
• Comfort items: Carry anti-motion sickness aids on dhow cruises or boat tours.

Last-minute travel tips

Dubai in December and January really strikes the perfect balance between enjoyable weather and incredible celebrations. With daytime temperatures around 24-26°C and evenings at 15-16°C. You will get the most out of the city. Do pack those light versatile layers. Remember to be modest for the local customs, and do not forget essential sunscreen and power adapters. If you plan to spend the New Year in Dubai, the city puts on unforgettable celebrations. The spectacular Burj Khalifa fireworks and festivities make it a magical time to remember.