If you are travelling to Dubai for the first time, or are well on your way to becoming a resident, the first question that pops into mind is, “what should I wear in Dubai?” When visiting a country or planning to reside in one, it’s always a good idea to respect the local culture and obey the laws. The emirate of Dubai is no different, especially concerning the way people dress. What is the dress code in Dubai? How does it apply to men and women? Let’s find out.
Is there a dress code in Dubai?
Since the national religion of the UAE is Islam, visitors are expected and encouraged to dress in modest clothing. According to the official website of the UAE Government, visitors are expected to dress modestly in public places such as shopping malls and places of religious worship such as mosques. Some of the important points to keep in mind about the dress code in Dubai for men and women are as follows:
- Make sure that clothing does not indecently expose parts of the body, display offensive images/slogans or be transparent
- Please bear in mind that nudity is strictly not allowed, which also includes topless sunbathing
- Swimwear can be worn when visiting swimming pool facilities, beaches and water parks, however, is not allowed in other public places
- Female travellers are not expected to wear the traditional abaya or cover their hair in usual public places. However, women will be asked to wear abayas and cover their heads when visiting mosques, out of respect for Islamic tradition. Often, mosques in Dubai will stock these for female visitors who might not have come prepared. Men are also expected to dress appropriately when visiting a mosque
- Visitors, both men and women, are encouraged to wear clothing that covers their shoulders, arms and legs
How strict is the dress code in Dubai?
Tourists will find that Dubai is a welcoming place that is home to melting pot of cultures and most forms of dress are acceptable, provided that they are modest. You certainly aren’t restricted to any one type of clothing! However, it’s always advisable and respectful to abide by the local traditions regarding dress codes in the emirate, and stick to outfits that cover the knees and shoulders.
The dress code in Dubai for women and men does not apply to a place of residence or hotel room. However, it does apply to public places, examples such as malls, public areas of hotels and tourist spots. For example, tourists will find that malls in Dubai have signs at the entrance, which ask visitors to dress modestly.
Why is there is a dress code in Dubai?
The dress code for appropriate clothing in Dubai does not just exist because the national religion is Islam. The emirate of Dubai also prides itself on being a very family-friendly city for visitors and residents. Emiratis, the local people of the UAE, also tend to dress modestly and it would disrespectful for visitors to dress otherwise in the city. So, when you are packing for a trip to Dubai, make sure that you pack appropriate clothing that is not adverse to cultural sensitivities.
So what should tourists wear in Dubai?
The general rule regarding dressing in public in Dubai is to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and your knees. It’s best to refrain from wearing clothing that is too tight or too revealing for both men and women. It’s a good idea to carry a light sweater or shawl with you when going out into public places.
Make sure you dress for the weather, too! For the hotter months in Dubai, tourists can stick to comfortable and loose-fitting clothes made from a light material, as long as it’s not too revealing.
As for the dress code for male tourists in Dubai, men should also wear clothing that covers the chest and knees, and wear swimwear only at the beach or swimming pools.
That’s all for our review of the dress code in Dubai. While the emirate embraces visitors from different cultures, it also expects them to abide by certain rules and respect local sensitivities. You can read up more on how the multicultural city of Dubai contributes to cosmopolitan community living.
Are you planning to move to the emirate? Keeping in mind the basic rules for expats in Dubai regarding work and other aspects of life will make your move more comfortable. For a safer experience, we also recommend getting yourself acquainted with the laws and culture in Dubai.
For more information on rules applicable to tourists and expats in Dubai, stay tuned to MyBayut.
