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Blog • March 24, 2025

Packing and Moving Checklists [Printable] for Moving Homes in Dubai

“I remember my first move in Dubai. I thought I had everything under control until I realized at 11 PM that I hadn’t transferred my DEWA (electricity and water) to the new place. Cue a very uncomfortable first night in the new home!”

Well, this is the story of so many people who move without proper planning as it happens more often than you think. Some forget updating their address, others forget canceling their subscriptions. Sometimes, they skip cleaning or don’t plan what to do with their furniture only to realize it later what mess they are in. That’s why you need not one but two checklists – one for packing and moving planning and another for furniture handling.

Having proper moving and packing checklists doesn’t just help you pack – it ensures you don’t forget critical tasks that could make your first few days in your new home miserable. The best part? Once you have these two checklists, moving becomes almost… dare we say it… enjoyable!

8 Weeks Before Moving

Start these tasks about 8 weeks before your move date:

• Begin researching moving companies in Dubai (check Google reviews, and ask friends)
• Create a “moving” folder (physical or digital) for all related documents
• Start decluttering – seriously, don’t skip this step
• Make inventory lists of valuable items (take photos too)
• Check if your furniture will fit in your new place (measure doorways!)
• If moving with kids, research schools in the new area

Quick Tip: In Dubai, moving companies book up quickly, especially around common lease renewal periods at the end of the year. Start making calls to packers and movers in Dubai at least 6-8 weeks in advance.

4 Weeks Before

Now, things start picking up:

• Book your packing and moving company in Dubai and confirm date/time
• Start collecting free boxes from supermarkets or buy moving supplies (if you’re working with packers and movers in Dubai, you can skip this step)
• Begin packing non-essential items (seasonal clothes, books, decor)
• Notify your landlord in writing (check your contract for notice period)
• Schedule disconnect/reconnect for DEWA and internet
• Update address with important services (banks, schools, etc.)
• If moving internationally, check visa requirements

2 Weeks Before: The Countdown Begins

This is when we see many clients start to panic, but with your checklist, you’ll be calm:

• Continue packing room by room (label boxes by room AND contents)
• Schedule cleaning for both old and new homes
• Confirm elevator booking if in an apartment (essential in Dubai!)
• Arrange temporary storage if needed
• Make travel arrangements if moving long distance
• Back up your computer files
• Transfer or cancel memberships (gym, pool, etc.)

1 Week Before

The final countdown:

• Pack a “first day” box with essentials (bedding, toiletries, and basic kitchen items)
• Defrost refrigerator and plan to use up perishable foods
• Confirm details with moving company
• Get cash for tipping movers
• Prepare a floor plan for furniture placement
• Collect all important documents in one secure place
• Set aside valuables to transport yourself

Moving Day: The Big Day

On moving day itself:

• Wake up early
• Do a final walkthrough of your old home
• Keep important items with you (documents, medications, valuables)
• Take final meter readings and photos for proof
• Check all closets, drawers, and cabinets one last time
• Stay hydrated (Dubai moves can be exhausting in summer!)

After Moving: Settling In

Don’t forget these important post-move tasks:

• Unpack essentials first
• Test all utilities
• Change locks if necessary
• Update address on Emirates ID (often overlooked but important in UAE)
• Register with new community facilities
• Meet your neighbors
• Check for any damages to your items before your moving company leaves

After hundreds of moves across Dubai, we’ve found that this systematic approach works for virtually every situation. These printable checklists for moving in Dubai above cover all the bases while being adaptable to your specific needs.

Would you like any specific advice about moving to a particular area in Dubai? Contact us. For packing and moving in Dubai, we can be your partner who’ll take care of all your moving needs. Each neighborhood has its own quirks when it comes to moving logistics!

#Packing and Moving Checklists