Dubai is famous for its high-high buildings, luxury shopping and beautiful beach. There is a combination of modern technology and old traditions here. Being part of the UAE, the culture of Dubai is influenced by Islamic beliefs, so there are some rules to wear clothes in public. New people often get wonder what is right to wear and what not.
There are many types of misunderstandings, such as some people believe that shorts or without side clothes cannot be worn at all, but in reality the rules are not so strict. It is important to know the real dress code so that there is no embarrassment or trouble.
General dress guideline
Dubai is a modern city, but the Middle East traditions are also here. Casual clothes go more than other places, but it is important to respect local customs. It is good to dress with simplicity in public places like malls and markets such as shoulders, chest and knees covered. It is okay to wear swimwear in the beach or pool.
One should wear more plain clothes while going to traditional areas or mosques, while the dress code is slightly flexible at a tourist spot like hotel or resort. It is better to always see her dress code before going to some place.
Dress code for tourists and local women
The dress code for women tourists in Dubai is slightly flexible compared to local women. Tourists can wear T-shirts, shorts and dress, but when they go to public places such as malls, markets or restaurants, they should cover shoulders and knees. The reason for this is that Dubai is a combination of modern and traditional culture, and it is necessary to respect local customs.
Local women usually wear traditional clothes such as Abaya, which is a long cloth covering the entire body. Some women also wear hijab, which is a scarf covering the head. It is common in Dubai and other countries of the Middle East like Saudi Arabia.
Wearing clothes with simplicity for tourists is a symbol of respect for culture, even if it is not necessary everywhere. Just as there are different rules of dress at different places in other countries, similarly there are also here. Wearing clothes properly makes tourists feel comfortable and shows that they understand culture.
Why is there a ban on clothes in Dubai
Clothing is banned in Dubai because it is part of the United Arab Emirates, which is a country with deep religious and cultural beliefs. The people of Dubai mostly follow Islam, which teaches that men and women in public places should wear shoulders, arms and feet covering clothes. Tourists can wear a little comfortable clothes on private places such as hotels or private beaches, but simplicity is necessary in public places.
It is different from Western countries, where the dress code is more flexible and people can wear clothes of their choice. But in Western countries, it is necessary to wear clothes with simplicity in church or official programs. Honoring local customs in Dubai shows that you understand and appreciate culture, which makes your journey experience good.
Do women need to wear hijab or abaya?
It is not necessary for women to wear hijab or abaya in Dubai, but it is expected to wear clothes in public places.
Hijab: A scarf that covers the hair.
Abaya: Loose black gown that covers the entire body.
These clothes are traditional dress of local women, but it is not mandatory for tourists to wear them. Nevertheless, women should cover shoulders, throat and knee in public places such as malls, restaurants or parks.
Some places, such as mosques, women have to wear abaya or cloth that covers the whole body. Abaya are also provided for visitors on the entry of the mosque. Even after meeting government buildings, cultural events or local families, we should wear clothes with simplicity.
Swimsuit can be worn in private beach or hotels, but wearing clothes from above while walking is considered good. Adherence to these rules shows respect for local culture.
Dress code in public places
It is necessary to wear clothes properly on malls, tourist destinations and roads.
What to do (DOS):
Wear clothes that cover the shoulders and knees.
Choose light and breathable clothes, as the weather can be hot, but maintain simplicity.
Wear comfortable shoes, especially while mall or walking.
What not to do (don’ts):
Do not wear very short or open clothes, such as short shorts or crop tops, in public places.
Do not wear swimwear outside the pool or beach.
