What to Pack & Bring: Sharjah

Season-Specific Clothing

Pack lightweight layers for the day, like cotton or linen.

Winter Nov-Mar

Lightweight layers for the day.
Light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings.
Especially for desert or coastal areas.

Cultural Dress Code

Sharjah is culturally conservative. Modest dress holds importance in public places.

Modesty Guidelines

Women: Cover shoulders and knees. Avoid revealing necklines.
Men: Avoid sleeveless tops in public. Trousers show more respect.
Mosques: Both genders cover arms/legs. Women cover heads.

Footwear Recommendations

Daily Sightseeing

Comfortable walking shoes or sandals for daily exploration.

Essential for comfort.

Beach & Pool

Flip-flops or sandals for beach or pool areas.

Easy and practical.

Desert Activities

Closed-toe shoes or light boots if planning desert activities.

Protection from sand.

Essential Documents

Document Checklist

Have your important documents organized and accessible.

Original passport (valid 6+ months).
Printed copies of e-visa or VOA confirmation.
Photocopies of passport and visa, kept separate.
Digital copies on cloud service or email.

Travel insurance policy (print and digital).
International Driving Permit (if renting car).
Vaccination records and health documentation.
Printed and digital copies of reservations.

Technology & Electronics

Power & Connectivity

The UAE uses Type G power sockets (three rectangular pins, like the UK). The standard voltage is 220-240V at 50Hz.

Essentials

A universal travel adapter for compatibility.
Phone networks use GSM. Verify phone unlocked.
Local SIM cards available at SHJ or from Etisalat, Du.

Camera & Power

A versatile travel camera is suitable for capturing your trip.

Gear

DSLR, mirrorless, or high-quality smartphone.
Extra memory cards and spare batteries.
Portable chargers and power banks hold importance.

Data Backup & Security

Cloud Storage

Use services like Google Drive or Dropbox for photos and important documents.

External Drive

An external hard drive offers larger data backups if traveling with a laptop.

Phone Apps

Google Maps, Careem, Uber, Google Translate are recommended.

Health & Wellness Items

First Aid Kit

A well-stocked personal health kit aids preparedness for minor issues.

Kit Contents

Antiseptic wipes, band-aids, sterile gauze, medical tape.
Pain relievers (paracetamol, ibuprofen), anti-diarrhea medication.
Hydrocortisone cream for bites. Allergy medication.

Medications

Carry all prescription medications in original packaging with clear labels.

Important Notes

Copy of prescription and doctor's letter.
Check UAE embassy guidelines for restricted medications.
Pack remedies for cold/flu, antacids, motion sickness tablets.

Sun & Insect Protection

Insect Repellent

Bring insect repellent with DEET or Picaridin for evenings.
Portable water filter bottle offers an eco-friendly backup.
Most standard personal hygiene items are available locally.

Sun Protection

High SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Lip balm with SPF.
UV-protective sunglasses.

Activity-Specific Equipment

Desert Safari

Comfortable closed-toe shoes, sunglasses, and a scarf.

Dune bashing vehicles typically provided.
Protection from sand and sun.
Sturdy shoes.
Sunglasses.

Water Sports

Swimwear, quick-dry clothing, and water shoes.

Kayaks and paddleboards rentable.
Quick-dry clothing.
Water shoes.
Swimwear.

Hiking

Sturdy hiking shoes, layered clothing, small backpack.

Plenty of water.
Layered clothing.
Small backpack.
Sturdy hiking shoes.

Rent vs. Bring Decision

Items to Rent

Desert safari companies furnish equipment.
Water sports equipment is rentable at activity centers.
Camping gear can be rented locally or purchased affordably.
No items specifically unique to Sharjah that are not covered.

Considerations

Renting can curtail luggage space and cost.
Bringing your own gear can offer familiarity.
Consider duration of stay and frequency of use.
Avoid bringing items difficult or expensive to purchase locally.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Comfort Items

These items enhance comfort during travel.

Travel Essentials

Inflatable travel neck pillow aids long journeys.
Eye mask for light sleepers.
Earplugs for quiet rest.
Foldable reusable shopping bag for purchases.

Security Items

These items contribute to security and peace of mind.

Protection

Small padlock for luggage.
Money belt or RFID blocking wallet.
Secures valuables despite low crime rate.
General safety awareness.

Sustainable Travel

Reusable Water Bottle

Curtains plastic waste.

Reusable Shopping Bag

Useful for souk purchases.

Eco-Friendly Toiletries

Consider solid bars or minimal packaging.

Conscious Choices

Support local and sustainable businesses.

Region-Specific Essentials

Women's Gear

Lightweight scarf for modesty or sun protection.
Wide-brimmed sun hat.
Sunglasses.

General Items

Small first aid kit.
Universal power adapter.
Earplugs.

Packing Pro Tip

Pack versatile items that can be layered.

Roll clothes tightly to save space and reduce wrinkles.

What to Pack & Bring