Pre-Trip Checklist: Sharjah

Essential Preparations

Follow a chronological planning timeline for a smooth journey.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Break down your preparations into manageable phases.

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6+ months). Research and apply for a visa.

Flights & Itinerary

Book flights early, especially for high season. Research hotels and attractions.

Initial Planning

Consider your general trip structure.

Month Before

Accommodation & Tours

Book your hotel. Pre-book essential tours like desert safaris.

Health & Finance

Arrange Travel insurance. Consult doctor for vaccinations. Inform bank of travel.

Driving Permits

Arrange an International Driving Permit (IDP) for car rentals.

Week Before

Confirmations

Confirm all flight, accommodation, and tour bookings. Secure documents.

Packing & Tech

Pack Travel gear. Download offline maps and useful apps.

Home Care

Arrange pet care or house sitting. Stop mail or newspaper delivery.

Required Advance Bookings

Plan these elements ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

Bookings Checklist

Flights.
Accommodation.
Popular tours, like desert safaris or museum tours.
Special dining experiences.

Pre-Trip Research

Familiarize yourself with local norms for a respectful visit.

Research Topics

Sharjah's cultural norms and laws (dress code, alcohol).
Public transport routes and options.
Local food specialties to try.
Local customs and etiquette.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Address home tasks to travel with peace of mind.

Security

Secure your home.
Inform a trusted neighbor.
Lock windows and doors.
Stop mail or newspaper delivery.

Utilities & Perishables

Pay any bills due.
Empty the refrigerator of perishables.
Consider turning off main water.
Unplug non-essential electronics.

Electronics & Pets

Charge all your electronics.
Update software on devices.
Arrange for pet care.
Organize house sitting.

Travel Gear Reminder

Pack effectively with high-quality organizers. Eagle Creek products can assist in tidying your suitcase.

Arrival Checklist

These steps help you settle in upon arrival.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration Procedures
Complete passport control and possible biometrics.
2
Luggage Collection
Collect your bags from baggage claim.
3
Customs Clearance
Pass through customs checks.

Orientation Strategies

Currency Exchange
Locate exchange services or an ATM for immediate cash.
Local SIM Card
Purchase a local SIM card if not pre-arranged.
Transportation to Accommodation
Find your pre-booked transfer, taxi, or public transport.

Arrival Details

Currency Exchange

Exchange a small amount at the airport for immediate needs.

Better rates are often available in the city. Consider using an ATM for initial cash.

Transportation

Confirm your transport mode (taxi, ride-share, bus, hotel transfer).

Account for luggage and time of day for your ride to the hotel.

Connectivity

Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival for continuous connectivity.

This facilitates navigation, communication, and digital services.

Pro Tip for Arrival

Before leaving the airport, ensure you have local currency or have used an ATM. This simplifies immediate needs.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for a smooth departure from Sharjah.

Souvenir & Shipping

Plan souvenir shopping for the last few days.
Inquire about shipping options for larger purchases (e.g., carpets).
Ship directly from vendor or via international courier.
Be aware of home country customs regulations (e.g., restricted animal products).

VAT Refund Procedures

UAE has a 5% VAT. Tourists claim a refund on eligible purchases.
Look for shops displaying the "Tax Free" sticker.
Validate purchases at designated Tax Free kiosks at the airport.
Complete validation before departing.

Pre-Departure Timing

Timely arrival at the airport is important for a smooth process.

Airport Arrival Recommendations

International Flights:2-3 hours before
Peak Season/Holidays:3+ hours before
Traffic Considerations:Factor in potential delays
Sharjah to DXB:Plan for extra travel time

Return Trip Preparation

Confirm your return flight details.
Pack according to airline baggage allowances.
Discard any prohibited items.
Ensure all necessary documents are accessible for departure.

Final Packing Tip

Utilize Eagle Creek packing cubes to maximize space and organization in your luggage.

A VPN service like NordVPN can maintain online privacy and access to content from home during your travels.

Pre-Trip Checklist