As winter travel picks up, UAE pharmacies report a significant increase in demand for “just-in-case” medicines, with travelers stocking up on essential medications to ensure a safe and worry-free journey.
UAE pharmacies experience surge in “just-in-case” medications ahead of winter travel.
Many travelers have developed a habit of visiting pharmacies before a trip to pick up what are often called “just-in-case” medicines. The idea usually begins with a simple but common concern: what if I fall ill while I’m abroad? This cautious mindset has become particularly noticeable in the UAE as the winter holiday season gets underway.
Pharmacists across the country report that, during this period, there is a significant uptick in the sale of medications and supplements aimed at preventing or treating common travel-related ailments. Cold and flu remedies, multivitamins, and general immunity-boosting supplements are among the most popular items purchased by residents preparing for flights. Many travelers feel reassured knowing they have these essentials on hand, providing peace of mind in case they encounter minor health issues while away from home.
Insider 18 spoke to several UAE pharmacists who explained that this trend typically begins a few weeks before major holiday periods, particularly during the cooler months. Customers often plan ahead to ensure they are fully equipped, especially if they are traveling to destinations where access to familiar medications may be limited or where there is a higher risk of seasonal illnesses.
This proactive approach reflects a growing awareness among UAE residents about the importance of maintaining their health while traveling. Stocking up on preventive and “just-in-case” medicines has become a routine part of travel preparation, allowing individuals to enjoy their winter holidays with greater confidence and less worry about falling ill far from home.
Pharmacists across Dubai and Sharjah have observed a noticeable increase in demand for health supplements as travel season approaches, with certain products standing out as particularly popular among residents preparing for their trips. According to these pharmacy professionals, multivitamins are consistently among the top-selling items, as many travelers aim to strengthen their overall health before heading abroad. In addition, vitamin C and zinc supplements are frequently requested, reflecting a widespread focus on boosting immunity and reducing the risk of falling ill during travel.
Immune-boosting products, which often combine a variety of vitamins, minerals, and herbal ingredients, are also in high demand, as travelers look for extra support to help fend off common illnesses such as colds and flu. Hydration supplements, including electrolyte powders and drinks, are another key category, particularly for those flying long distances or visiting regions with extreme weather conditions, where maintaining adequate hydration is crucial.
Pharmacists note that this trend typically begins a few weeks before holiday periods, as residents proactively stock up to ensure they are well-prepared for potential health issues while away from home. The rise in purchases of these preventive and wellness-focused products highlights how UAE travelers are increasingly prioritizing their health, aiming to enjoy a safe and worry-free travel experience.
“Before the busy travel season kicks in, many residents visit pharmacies to put together a travel medicine kit,” said a pharmacist at a community pharmacy in JLT, Dubai. “We notice particularly strong demand for multivitamins, immune supplements, and basic medications like painkillers and remedies for colds and flu.”
The pharmacist added that travelers often purchase vitamins and immune-boosting products believing these will offer protection during flights or in colder climates. “We always clarify that while these supplements can help support overall health, they do not provide guaranteed protection against infections,” they explained.
Requests for antibiotics without a prescription remain common, though pharmacists consistently refuse such demands.
“Many customers ask for antibiotics as a precaution, but we cannot provide them without a doctor’s prescription,” said Abdul Salam, a pharmacist at a community pharmacy in Al Nahda, Sharjah. “Instead, we suggest safer over-the-counter alternatives and recommend consulting a healthcare professional, especially because travel often exposes people to different climates, foods, and environments.”
Pharmacists also stressed the importance of avoiding self-medication. They advise travelers to rely on professional guidance if any symptoms arise while abroad rather than depending solely on medicines packed from home. This ensures travelers use medications safely and only when necessary, reducing the risk of complications or misuse.
Why doctors advise caution when travelling with medicines and supplements
Healthcare professionals are urging travelers to exercise caution when it comes to self-medicating, even with over-the-counter supplements. While vitamins, immune boosters, and basic cold remedies are widely perceived as preventive measures, taking them in excess or mixing multiple products can carry unintended health risks.
Dr. Jadeer Akkaparambil, an internal medicine specialist at Medcare Hospital Sharjah, explained that many common travel-related concerns, such as colds, mild fevers, or digestive upsets, are typically viral in nature. “Most of the illnesses people worry about while traveling do not require antibiotics,” he said. “Using potent medications unnecessarily not only poses potential health risks but may also delay proper diagnosis and treatment, making it harder to address the actual problem effectively.”
Dr. Jadeer also emphasized that while supplements can play a role in maintaining general wellness, they are not a substitute for medical guidance or essential self-care measures. “Many travelers mistakenly believe that taking multiple vitamins or immune boosters will prevent them from falling ill during flights or holidays,” he noted. “Supplements can support overall health, but they do not replace proper rest, adequate hydration, or seeking timely medical advice if symptoms develop.”
Another critical concern is the interaction of multiple supplements or medications. Doctors warn that combining different products—such as various vitamins with cold or flu remedies—can place unnecessary strain on the body, particularly when traveling across different climates or time zones. Such combinations may lead to side effects, diminish effectiveness, or even interact with prescription medications a traveler is taking.
Dr. Marian Malak Eshak Morkos, a family medicine specialist at Burjeel Day Surgery Centre in Al Shahama, shared that she frequently sees patients who have brought a stockpile of antibiotics or multiple supplements on trips. “While vitamins and immune boosters are useful for supporting general health, they do not prevent infections,” she said. “Overusing them or combining several types can lead to adverse effects or interactions with other medications, which can complicate a traveler’s health rather than protect it.”
Both specialists stress the importance of planning travel health wisely. This includes consulting a doctor before taking new medications or supplements, following recommended dosages, and avoiding self-prescription of antibiotics, which should only be used under professional guidance. Travelers should also prioritize preventive measures such as proper nutrition, rest, hygiene, and vaccination where applicable, rather than relying solely on pills to prevent illness.
Ultimately, doctors advise that while it is understandable to prepare for minor ailments during travel, caution and informed decision-making are key. Supplements and over-the-counter remedies can provide support, but they are most effective when used appropriately and in combination with healthy lifestyle practices. Travelers who follow professional advice are more likely to enjoy a safe, healthy, and stress-free holiday experience, minimizing the risk of preventable complications.
Keep travel medicine kits simple: Expert advice for winter travelers
As winter travel picks up, healthcare professionals are emphasizing the importance of keeping travel medicine kits simple and practical. While many travelers are tempted to stockpile a variety of medications and supplements before embarking on trips, doctors warn that overloading a travel bag with unnecessary products can sometimes do more harm than good. The key, experts say, is to focus on a few essential items that address the most common minor health issues encountered while traveling.
Dr. Marian Malak Eshak Morkos, a family medicine specialist at Burjeel Day Surgery Centre in Al Shahama, recommends a basic approach when assembling a travel medicine kit. “A simple kit that includes pain and fever relief medications, oral rehydration salts, allergy medicines, and essential first-aid items is usually sufficient,” she said. Such a kit is designed to manage minor ailments, from headaches and mild fevers to minor injuries or allergic reactions, without overwhelming travelers with excessive or unnecessary medications.
Dr. Morkos cautioned against carrying multiple vitamins, immune boosters, or strong prescription medications without prior medical guidance. “While it might feel reassuring to bring a wide range of products, taking unadvised medicines can pose serious health risks, particularly if they interact with each other or with other treatments a traveler is taking,” she explained. Supplements may support overall wellness, but they cannot replace proper medical care, rest, hydration, and timely intervention if symptoms arise.
Pharmacists across Dubai and Sharjah echo this advice, noting that travelers often request “just-in-case” medications or stock up on antibiotics and high-strength remedies unnecessarily. Professionals consistently remind customers that antibiotics should never be taken without a prescription and that over-the-counter medicines and supplements are not foolproof protection against illness. Preparing sensibly and keeping a kit streamlined ensures that travelers are ready for minor health issues without encouraging risky self-medication.
Experts also emphasize the importance of knowing when to seek professional care. A small, well-planned travel kit can help manage common problems like mild fevers, dehydration, or allergies. However, persistent or severe symptoms should always be addressed by a healthcare professional rather than relying solely on medicines carried from home. Travelers should prioritize preventive measures such as maintaining good hygiene, staying hydrated, dressing appropriately for the climate, and resting adequately to reduce the risk of falling ill.
In summary, both doctors and pharmacists advise that the best approach to travel health is preparation with moderation. A simple, thoughtfully prepared kit, combined with common-sense health practices and timely professional consultation, provides the most effective way to stay safe and well while traveling. By avoiding unnecessary medicines and focusing on essential items, travelers can ensure peace of mind without compromising their health, making their winter trips safer, healthier, and more enjoyable.
