Leaving a Dubai home empty for a week or more takes more preparation than locking the door. Summer heat and humidity can damage furniture, food and appliances, small leaks can become expensive problems, and an obviously empty home can attract unwanted attention. A methodical hour before you travel protects your home and makes returning far more pleasant.
Set the Air Conditioning for an Empty Home
Turning the AC off completely while away in Dubai’s summer is risky. Without cooling and dehumidification, indoor humidity rises and mould can develop on walls, wardrobes, leather goods and soft furnishings. A musty home and damaged clothes can cost far more than a few weeks of modest cooling.
In general, many residents leave the AC on a low, energy-conscious setting while away, or use a timer or smart thermostat to run it for set periods each day. The right setting depends on your building, insulation, plants and stored items, so no single temperature suits every home. Choose a warmer setting than when present, close curtains to reduce solar heat, and test any smart schedule and app access before departure day.
Fridge, Food and Kitchen Checks
Work through the fridge in the final days before departure. Eat, freeze, give away or throw out perishables such as milk, meat, leftovers and soft fruit that will spoil while you are away. A fridge that loses power with rotting food inside is an unpleasant homecoming and leaves lingering smells.
For a short trip, leaving the fridge on with sealed, long-life items is usually simplest. For a longer absence, some people empty it completely, clean and dry it, and leave the door slightly ajar with power off to prevent mould and odours. Do not rely on frozen food being safe after a long, unknown power cut; when in doubt on return, throw it out. Empty bins, clean the sink, and store dry food in sealed containers to discourage pests.
Water, Gas and Appliances: Be Cautious
Water leaks are among the most damaging problems in an empty home. Check under sinks, around washing machines and water heaters for drips before travelling. Some villa residents turn off the internal water supply while away, but only do this if you know exactly which valve controls your home, what it also supplies, and how to restore it safely. If unsure, ask your landlord, building management or a qualified plumber, and never interfere with shared building supplies.
Unplug small appliances that do not need power, such as kettles, toasters and televisions, and switch off water heaters if your setup and landlord guidance allow. Leave on only what is needed: the fridge if stocked, the AC, and security or smart-home devices. Check cooker knobs are off and follow your building’s specific guidance on gas.
Bills and Services While You Are Away
Your DEWA account and telecom services continue while you travel, and standing charges or minimum elements may still apply even when usage falls. Review recent bills, make sure autopay works, and consider paying in advance if you will be away over a due date with limited internet. Check DEWA and your telecom provider for current options for travelling customers, as tariffs and processes can change.
Store digital copies of passports, visas, tenancy documents and insurance policies securely so you can reach them abroad. Review home and travel insurance in general before leaving: what is covered for water damage, theft and trip disruption, what excess applies, and what evidence an insurer would need. Policy terms vary widely, so rely on your own documents.
Security, Neighbours, Car and Mail
- Ask a trusted neighbour, friend or building security contact to keep an eye on your home and tell you about anything unusual.
- Use timers or smart lighting in the evening so the home does not look permanently dark and empty.
- Lock balcony doors and windows, secure valuables out of sight, and avoid posting exact travel dates publicly.
- Arrange for mail and parcels not to pile up visibly; pause or redirect deliveries where services allow.
- Park your car legally and securely, ideally in shade or covered parking, remove valuables, and consider battery health on long trips.
- Leave emergency contact details with your trusted person and building management.
A Final Walk-Through
On departure day, walk room by room: AC set, taps off, appliances as planned, fridge checked, bins out, windows and doors locked, lights and timers set, documents packed. Photographing final meter readings can be a useful record. Then travel with peace of mind.