One of the most common questions before a trip is what to wear in Dubai so as not to break the rules or feel uncomfortable. The good news is that Dubai is far more liberal than the stereotypes about Arab countries suggest. There is no compulsory hijab for female tourists. But the principle of modesty in public places does apply, and it is worth respecting. Let us go through the dress code situation by situation — this is part of our rules of conduct in Dubai.
The Main Principle
In public places a simple rule applies: covered shoulders and knees. It extends to shopping malls, markets, restaurants, government buildings and public transport. This is not a strict law with patrols, but in large malls there really are signs asking you to dress modestly, and security may say something about a revealing outfit.
At the same time, Dubai is a modern city, and most ordinary clothing is perfectly fine here.
What You Can Wear in the City
In everyday situations, almost everything you wear at home is acceptable:
- T-shirts, shirts, light blouses;
- jeans, trousers, dresses;
- knee-length shorts and skirts;
- light sundresses with covered shoulders.
Because of the heat, it is best to choose light, breathable fabrics in pale tones. The air conditioning in malls and restaurants is powerful, so it is useful to carry a light cardigan or a shawl.
What to Avoid
In shopping malls and public places you should not appear in:
- very short shorts and minis;
- crop tops and backless tops;
- see-through or overly revealing clothing;
- deep necklines.
In most cases this will not lead to a fine, but it may prompt a comment and sideways glances. It is also better not to walk the street dressed like this.
Clothing at the Beach and by the Pool
Here it is simple: swimsuits, bikinis and trunks are appropriate only at the beach and by the pool. This applies to both public and hotel beaches. But walking down the street in a swimsuit, or going into a shop or cafe across the road, is not allowed. Throw on a sarong, a dress or shorts with a T-shirt. Topless and nudism are completely prohibited. For more on beaches, see the guide to Dubai’s beaches.
Dress Code in a Mosque
To visit a mosque (for example, the Jumeirah Mosque, which is open to tourists) there are separate requirements:
- women: long sleeves, a long skirt or trousers, a headscarf;
- men: long trousers and a T-shirt/shirt with sleeves, no shorts.
Suitable clothing (an abaya, a headscarf) is often provided for free right at the entrance. The main thing is to arrive in closed shoes and looking tidy.
Clubs, Bars and Restaurants
In venues at hotels, bars and nightclubs the dress code is relaxed and even smart. Evening dresses, heels and shirts are all appropriate. Some high-end restaurants and clubs, on the contrary, do not admit shorts and beach flip-flops, so for dinner at a pricey place it is best to dress a little smarter.
Clothing During Ramadan
During the holy month of Ramadan it is worth dressing a little more modestly than usual as a sign of respect. It is best to avoid revealing clothing in public altogether. For details, see the guide to Ramadan in Dubai.
The dress code in Dubai rests on common sense rather than bans: covered shoulders and knees in public places, swimwear by the water only, covered clothing and a headscarf for the mosque. Otherwise, wear your usual clothes in light fabrics. Respect for local norms is noticed and appreciated here, and in return the city stays welcoming and free of unnecessary formalities. The other nuances of behaviour are in the guide to Dubai’s laws and rules.
