The Essentials Bag: 24 Things Experts Say You’ll Need Within the First Hour in Your New Home

Moving into a new property in Dubai can be exhilarating, yet the first hour is critical. Failing to have immediate-use items on hand can cause delays, stress, and added expense.

In this article, you will discover the 24 items relocation experts consistently recommend you pack into your “essentials bag”, the gear you’ll want within the first hour of arriving at your new home in Dubai.

1) Valid ID, Tenancy Contract & Ejari — pack the documents that unlock handover

Arrivals move faster when your identity and lease paperwork sit on top of the Essentials Bag. In Dubai, the tenancy is formal only after Ejari registration, on which most first-hour tasks depend. Keep printouts and PDFs ready so building staff and service portals can verify details instantly.

What the law and portals actually require (Dubai-specific):

• Ejari is mandatory to formalize your lease; registration is available via the Dubai REST platform and Trustee Centers. Published fees: AED 100 registration + AED 10 knowledge + AED 10 innovation + service partner fee (AED 55 online; AED 95 at centers) + VAT on partner fee (AED 2.75 online). Online total ≈ AED 177.75; in-person totals are higher due to the larger partner fee.
• DEWA “Move-in” for tenants requires Ejari. DEWA confirms that you submit Ejari only; the Ejari record replaces the paper tenancy contract for this step.
• Communities often ask for move-in permits/access letters tied to your contract/Ejari at handover. Having both paper and digital copies avoids desk-to-desk delays.

Pack these in a slim wallet (paper + PDF):

• Emirates ID (or passport + Emirates ID application receipt)
• Unified Tenancy Contract + Ejari certificate/number
• Move-in permit/access letter (if your tower/villa community issues one)
• Receipts for landlord deposit/agency fee and DEWA deposit/connection
• A QR-code scan of the Ejari/REST page for quick verification.

First-hour takeaways:

• Show Ejari first at handover, and this one document unlocks utilities and access cards.
• Know the fees so you recognize legitimate charges.

2) Emirates ID (or application acknowledgement) — essential for utilities, telecom, and access

You can start move-in admin with a passport, but an Emirates ID is the default identity token for government and private services. If your card is still in process, carry the ICP application acknowledgement; it is commonly requested at counters and when initiating home services.

Why it belongs in the bag:

• The ICP confirms the Emirates ID is linked to your residence status and is used across services (banking, utilities, telecom, registrations). Having the card or acknowledgement helps you trigger set-ups in the first hour.
• Government updates show continued digitization of ID-linked services; fees and payments can even be handled in structured ways as initiatives roll out. Keep the latest acknowledgement and digital copy accessible.

Quick checklist (carry both if possible):

1. Emirates ID, front/back photocopy
2. ICP application receipt with file number
3. Passport + residence-visa page (clear scan)

First-hour takeaways:

• No Emirates ID? Use the ICP receipt to start basic admin while your card is being issued.
• Telecom sign-ups and many building desks will ask for an Emirates ID as the primary ID.

3) Primary keys, spares & access codes — prevent a stalled handover

The fastest way to lose time on move-in day is simple: no keys or no access. Pack every key you already control, plus a labeled spare, and any digital codes or parking fobs you were issued. This prevents elevator bookings or movers from hanging idle while someone hunts a keyholder.

What access does it typically include in Dubai:

• Unit door keys, mailbox key, parking fob, community access card, and in some towers, a service-elevator booking QR or paper permit for the move window. Communities manage these through building management tied to your Ejari/contract.
• If your landlord or agent is doing a handover, request the complete key set inventory the day before; buildings often have fixed move slots, and missed slots can push movers to the next window.

First-hour takeaways:

• Treat keys like IDs. Put them in the same zipped pouch at the top of the bag.
• Confirm the move-in window with building management by email the day before; show the permit on arrival to avoid lift or dock delays.

4) Phone charger, power bank & UAE SIM — connectivity is your first utility

Most first-hour tasks are digital: DEWA move-in, access permits, and delivery bookings. Keep a fast charger, a charged power bank, and either an active line or a UAE SIM ready. The UAE’s connectivity rates are among the world’s highest, which makes instant onboarding realistic if your phone stays powered and online.

Facts that matter for first-hour readiness:

• Active internet users, ≈ 99% of the UAE population, per TDRA’s Digital UAE Factsheets, assume you can transact online.
• Cellular connections ≈ 20.96 million in early 2024, ~219% of the population. Multiple SIMs/lines per person are common, so getting a local SIM is straightforward.
• Telco onboarding pages list the Emirates ID as the required document for postpaid lines; keep the card or ICP receipt handy.

Pack + do (quick list):

• Wall charger + cable, power bank, and a plug adapter if arriving from abroad
• UAE SIM or eSIM; activate on arrival so you can authenticate government and utility portals
• Pre-download Dubai REST, DEWA, and telco apps; store PDFs in your phone’s files app

First-hour takeaways:

• Charge before you travel and keep the power bank accessible, not in a sealed carton.
• Activate the SIM to receive one-time passwords for DEWA and building portals on the spot.

5) Small cash & card access — cover deposits, access cards, and quick incidentals

Not every counter is cashless during handover. Carry AED 100–200 in small notes plus a working UAE-enabled card to cover access-card printing, short-term parking, porter tips, or water for the team. Many official portals take cards, but some building services and incidentals are still easier with cash on day one.

Why both payment modes help:

• DEWA deposits/fees are paid digitally, yet you may still encounter building-level charges (extra access cards, temporary parking, service-elevator pad protection) handled on-site. Keeping cash reduces trips to the ATM and speeds up the queue.
• Local cost-of-living guides note strong card adoption and digital payments; however, micro-purchases around moves are common and often informal (porters, water, tapes). Bring small notes for speed.

Pack + pay (practical):

• AED 100–200 split across small denominations
• One UAE card that works for online portals + one backup card
• Keep the DEWA payment confirmation in your document wallet once paid

First-hour takeaways:

• Expect mixed payments: digital for utilities, small cash for on-site incidentals.
• Photograph any receipts and drop them in your “Move-in” folder on the phone.

6) Water bottles & light snacks — heat-smart packing for Dubai’s first hour

Arrivals in the UAE often coincide with peak heat and humidity. In summer, inland locations reach the high-40s to low-50s °C, while Dubai frequently sits around 40–43 °C. Hydration and quick calories cut fatigue while you unlock, inspect, and set up utilities in that first hour.

What to pack and why:

• 2–3 liters of bottled water per adult for move-in day; heat-stress guidance from the Dubai Health Authority stresses regular cooling and fluids during extreme heat.
• Portable snacks with carbs + salt (bars, nuts, dates) to stabilize energy while lifts, access cards, and DEWA steps are processed.
• Cooler bag or insulated flask to keep water <15–20 °C; chilled fluids reduce core temperature faster in high radiant heat.

First-hour takeaways:

• Expect >40 °C in peak months; plan hydration before you arrive.
• Keep water at the top of the Essentials Bag; hand one bottle to each mover as you start.
• If moving in summer, follow DHA’s “keep cool” steps (cool showers, light clothing).

7) First-aid and medication kit — immediate safety buffer

The first hour includes lifting, minor cuts, and heat exposure. A compact kit lets you respond while you wait for pharmacy runs or clinic registration. UAE regulators have published first-aid kit standards; use them as a benchmark for the quality of contents.

Pack this, aligned to UAE guidance:

• Adhesive plasters, sterile dressings, bandage, antiseptic wipes, small scissors, tweezers; add any prescribed medications in original packaging.
• Oral rehydration salts and a digital thermometer; heat-stress risk rises in the first hours of physical activity.
• Emergency contacts for community security and nearest clinic (store in phone + paper card).

First-hour takeaways:

• Keep the kit in a side pocket for instant reach.
• UAE law requires health insurance coverage for Dubai residents; keep policy details handy for any urgent visit.

8) Basic toolkit (screwdriver, adjustable wrench, tape measure) — fix small snags fast

Minor issues often surface at handover: loose handles, misaligned latches, or a shelf that needs re-fixing. Dubai property guides emphasize snagging and post-handover checks; simple tools let you secure essentials before you unpack heavier boxes.

Bring a compact set:

• Phillips/flat screwdrivers, adjustable wrench, hex keys, tape measure, painter’s tape; add picture-hanging strips for non-drill fixes.
• Use the checklists advocated in Dubai handover resources to focus on fittings, sockets, and plumbing while you still have access to service lifts.

First-hour takeaways:

• Tighten, label, and move on. Don’t wait for a handyman for simple adjustments.
• Photograph any defects and add them to your snag list for the landlord or developer.

9) Flashlight/torch + spare batteries — navigate dim corridors and store rooms

DEWA’s grid reliability is world-class, ~0.94–1.06 customer minutes lost per year, so full outages are rare. But service corridors, basements, and unlit rooms can be dark during move-in and inspections. A compact torch prevents trips and helps read meter panels.

Pack smart:

• LED torch with spare AA/AAA cells; headlamp if you’re hands-on with meters or under-sink shutoffs.
• Keep one torch in the bag and one in the car glove box.

First-hour takeaways:

• Use the torch for meter photos and appliance serials during handover paperwork.
• Reliability is high, but stairwells and plant rooms can be poorly lit before you settle.

10) Extension lead + multi-plug adapter — power where you need it

Dubai uses Type-G (BS 1363) 230 V/50 Hz sockets. Many new arrivals carry devices with other plug types; a fused, safety-approved adapter and a short extension help you power routers, phones, and a kettle from one outlet in the first hour.

What to check before buying:

• Look for BS 1363/BS 1362-fused compliance or products meeting the UAE adoption of BS-type standards.
• Avoid multi-plug “cubes” without fuses; use surge-protected strips for electronics.

First-hour takeaways:

• One fused adapter + 4-gang strip powers charger, router, lamp, and kettle until you stage furniture.
• Confirm voltage labels on imported devices before plugging in.

11) Toilet paper, hand soap, cleaning wipes — hygiene before unpacking

Move-in guides for Dubai highlight cleaning and maintenance status as a standard handover checkpoint, yet not every unit is stocked with consumables. Pack a minimal hygiene kit to make bathrooms usable instantly and to wipe down high-touch surfaces.

Carry this trio:

• 2 toilet rolls, liquid hand soap, disinfectant wipes; add a small trash bag and paper towels.
• If sensitive to fragrances, choose unscented products; ventilation can be limited during initial AC balancing.

First-hour takeaways:

• Clean handles, switches, and counters first; then start your room-by-room plan.
• Log any cleanliness issues in your handover photos for the landlord/agent.

12) A change of clothes + indoor slippers — comfort and cultural fit

Expect sweat and dust while supervising movers. Many households in the UAE prefer to take off their shoes indoors for cleanliness; indoor slippers and a fresh T-shirt help you reset quickly before you host contractors or management staff. Local packing checklists also recommend separating day-one clothing and toiletries.

Pack light, pack separately:

• One breathable outfit (cotton/linen), slippers, a small towel, and deodorant in an outer pocket.
• If moving in summer, align with DHA’s summer guide recommendations on cooling clothing.

First-hour takeaways:

• Quick change = higher comfort and fewer dust transfers onto new surfaces.
• Keep a microfibre cloth to wipe sweat before signing the handover forms.

13) Kitchen basics: kettle, mug, tea/coffee — comfort on demand

A hot drink anchors a messy hour. Dubai move-in checklists advise prioritising kitchen essentials early so you can function while boxes are unopened. Bring a kettle, one mug per person, tea/coffee, and sugar/milk sachets so you’re not dependent on a first-shop run.

Practical add-ons:

• Spoons, napkins, dish sponge, and a small washing-up liquid.
• Delivery platforms provide ETAs, but even a 20–40-minute wait feels longer when dehydrated; a self-serve drink closes that gap.

First-hour takeaways:

• Plug the kettle into your Type-G power strip; test one outlet while you unpack.
• Keep a 1-liter bottle by the kettle to measure your water intake in the heat.

14) Simple utensils and one pan — quick food without waiting

Even with dense delivery coverage, you may arrive outside peak kitchen hours or during elevator bookings. One non-stick pan, spatula, knife, and two plates let you prepare eggs or heat leftovers while the rest of the kitchen remains boxed. Dubai moving guides consistently include an “essentials box” with day-one kitchen items.

Pack minimal, cook maximal:

• Pan + lid, spatula, knife, salt/pepper, and foil; add instant oats/noodles as back-ups.
• Store this mini-kit in a clear zip bag so it’s visible when the van doors open.

First-hour takeaways:

• Fuel early, then stage the rest of the kitchen methodically.
• Use your extension strip to power the kettle + phone while you cook.

15) Bed linen + pillowcases — secure your first night

Many Dubai move-in checklists advise making the bed one of your first setups so you can sleep regardless of unpacking progress. Pack a full set of sheets, pillowcases, and a light duvet in a clearly marked bag; you’ll be grateful if delivery runs late or furniture assembly slips.

Make sleep non-negotiable:

• Include two pillowcases per person and a fitted sheet sized to your mattress; add a compact blanket for AC-cooled nights.
• Keep earplugs and an eye mask in case building works or corridor lighting run late.

First-hour takeaways:

• Put the linen bag on the bed frame before opening any other box.
• Good sleep after a 40 °C day is a health decision, not a luxury.

16) Bathroom towel + flip-flops — keep hygiene under your control

First hour, bathrooms may be clean but not stocked. A personal towel and non-slip shower flip-flops let you bathe before unpacking toiletries or waiting on a store run. Heat and humidity in Dubai increase sweat and surface moisture, so quick access to your own kit boosts comfort immediately.

Pack for the first rinse:

• One fast-dry towel, shower flip-flops, mini soap/shampoo, and a zip bag for wet items.
• Wipe high-touch points (taps, handles) with a disinfectant wipe before use (tie-in with your hygiene kit from earlier sections).

First-hour takeaways:

• Bathing quickly reduces heat stress carryover from outdoors.
• Keep the towel+flip-flops pouch at the top of the Essentials Bag to avoid opening bathroom cartons first.

17) Internet/TV router + login information — connectivity is the first utility

Most move-in admin is digital. UAE internet usage is near universal, so having your router, Wi-Fi password, and telco account logins ready means you can submit DEWA requests, move-in permits, and deliveries without delay. Both major providers list Emirates ID and tenancy proof (Ejari) among the documents for activation.

Pack + prepare:

• Router, power cable, Ethernet lead, and your ISP credentials.
• Screenshots of your account number, registered mobile, and OTP settings.
• If you are new to the line, confirm installation eligibility and required documents with Etisalat or du in advance.

First-hour takeaways:

• UAE active internet users ≈ 99% of the population; assume portals expect you online.
• Wi-Fi on arrival lets you authenticate building apps, delivery apps, and utility portals immediately.

18) Local map/navigation app pre-set — plan routes before the boxes arrive

Even with world-class transport, new addresses can be confusing at first. Pre-set your navigation app with home, nearest metro, supermarket, pharmacy, and clinic. RTA reports growing ridership and upgrades such as free Wi-Fi at bus and marine stations, and system-wide signage improvements to help wayfinding.

Set these five pins:

1. Building entrance/loading bay, 2) Nearest metro or bus hub, 3) Supermarket, 4) 24/7 pharmacy, 5) Community management office.

First-hour takeaways:

• Public bus network coverage reached 88% of Dubai’s urban areas in 2024–2025 planning updates; use it as a reliable fallback if your car isn’t ready.
• Saved pins cut decision time when movers ask where to park or which service elevator to use.

19) Basic food staples — small staples prevent a long wait from feeling longer

Carry bread, milk, butter, and one ready-to-eat item so the first hour does not hinge on delivery timing or a store run. Major UAE retailers (e.g., Carrefour) operate express delivery with 60-minute windows in Dubai, but traffic, elevator bookings, or peak times can stretch ETAs.

Smart staples list:

• 1 loaf of bread, 1 liter of milk, butter or spread, dates or nuts, and cutlery/napkins in the same pouch.
• If you rely on delivery, preload apps, and pin your exact building/entrance.

First-hour takeaways:

• A 10-minute snack setup keeps energy stable while you complete handover and meter photos.
• Use your extension strip to power the kettle+router while you eat.

20) Garbage bags + cleaning spray — control the packing mess early

Cardboard, shrink wrap, and protective film pile up fast. Dubai Municipality’s waste guides set standards for storage rooms, segregation, and handling; start right by bagging waste and wiping surfaces before boxes spread. Community rules may specify chutes or collection rooms for general and recyclable waste.

Bag it before it spreads:

• 2–3 heavy-duty trash bags, a small roll of recycling bags, all-purpose cleaner, and paper towels.
• Ask security where to place recyclables and large cartons per building policy.

First-hour takeaways:

• Early bagging keeps corridors clear for movers and avoids return trips to the van.
• Follow building guidance; some towers require flattened cartons in a designated room (check your community handbook).

21) Mobile banking / online-bank login — pay deposits and activate services

Utility deposits, access-card fees, and telecom prepayments are usually card- or app-based. Keep mobile banking enabled, with your UAE card and international OTP set up. Expat utility setup guides list ID + tenancy proof as prerequisites and assume you can pay digitally on the spot. National digital-inclusion data confirms very high adoption of online services.

Get payments moving:

• Test your bank app login and biometrics before moving day.
• Store PDFs of paid receipts (DEWA, access card) in a “Move-in” phone folder.

First-hour takeaways:

• Being able to pay immediately avoids re-queues at management offices.
• Keep a backup card in case 3-D Secure or OTPs fail on weak signals.

22) Emergency contacts — the numbers that fix things fast

List building management, security/concierge, maintenance helpdesk, landlord/agent, and nearest clinic. Many communities require move-in permits and provide helpdesk support via apps such as Emaar One; having contacts to hand speeds card activation or issuing tickets.

Five contacts to save now:

• Community helpdesk, Security desk, Maintenance, Landlord/agent, 24/7 pharmacy/clinic.

First-hour takeaways:

• One call can unlock a stuck service elevator or issue a temporary access card.
• Take a photo of community QR passes and store them in your phone wallet.

23) Insurance policy copy (home contents or renter’s) — prove cover if you need it

Some landlords and communities encourage or require tenant contents/liability insurance; insurers and property portals list Ejari/tenancy proof among standard documents. Keep a digital policy and a printed summary so you can evidence coverage during key collection or contractor visits.

What to file with your documents wallet:

• Policy schedule, insurer hotline, coverage limits, and claim instructions.
• Proof of address (Ejari), Emirates ID/passport, and inventory photos for contents claims.

First-hour takeaways:

• Having the policy to hand speeds any gate-pass where proof of liability cover is requested.
• Filing photos of valuables on day one strengthens future claims.

24) Notepad + pen + “first-hour” checklist — small tool, big control

Write down meter readings, key counts, access cards, and defects as you find them. DLD tenancy guides emphasize formalizing rental documentation via Ejari and standard contracts; your first-hour checklist is the tenant-side record that supports maintenance tickets and deposit returns later.

What to capture in 10 minutes:

1. Electricity/water meter photos, 2) Numbered keys/fobs, 3) Visible snags with photos, 4) Access-permit numbers, 5) Delivery/installer ETAs.

• Keep one page for “follow-ups in 24–48h” (AC service, deep clean, telecom install).

First-hour takeaways:

• Written notes + photos reduce disputes and keep your move on schedule.
• A paper notepad works even if your phone is charging or offline.

Final Thoughts: Make Your First Hour Work For You

The first hour sets the tone. Pack the Essentials Bag, and you control handover, utilities, access, and comfort from minute one. Keep IDs, Ejari, power, water, and a bed setup on top. Act in a fixed order. Avoid avoidable delays.

Start with documents. Move to power and connectivity. Stabilize hydration and food. Prepare hygiene and sleep. Note meters, keys, and snags. Store receipts. Your new home in Dubai feels ready because the plan removes friction.

Quick close-out plan:

1. Show Ejari and Emirates ID.
2. Activate DEWA and building access.
3. Power the router and phone.
4. Hydrate, snack, and cool down.
5. Make the bed.
6. Log meter readings and defects with photos.
7. File receipts and contact numbers.

A small bag creates outsized results. Pack it the day before. Keep it within reach. Walk in confidently.

FAQs: First-Hour Essentials in Dubai