What to Wear in Dubai? Do's and Don'ts
If you love to travel and explore the world, Dubai should definitely be on your list of destinations. Although Dubai is a cosmopolitan city, there are some restrictions on clothing. The rules are stricter for locals than for tourists. The basic rule of the dress code is to wear clothes that cover the shoulders and knees. Although this rule is quite liberal for men, tourists can wear anything as long as it looks decent. A guide to what to wear in Dubai can be found here!
Why is there a Dress Code in Dubai
Being a Muslim country, the UAE has certain customs and traditions that are respected and followed by locals and visitors. One of them is the dress code. Although there is no official dress code, modesty is encouraged, and it is recommended that people dress appropriately and conservatively in public places.
Dubai's culture and customs are based on Islamic traditions and customs. The country is home to people from all over the world, so there is a mix of cultures and traditions, but most adhere to Islamic values and customs. Modesty is encouraged in dress and behavior, and it is recommended to dress conservatively in public places.
What to pack for Dubai
The clothes you should wear depend on where you are going and what you are doing. Here you will read all about the clothing taboos and Dubai dress code in great detail, but let’s not forget about other important things to pack.
When packing for a trip to Dubai, especially if you are planning to go on a desert safari and do other adventure activities, make sure to pack two types of shoes. One option is to choose sneakers because they are good for long walks. Also, make sure to pack a pair of sandals.
Don’t forget to pack a moisturizer with strong sun protection. In summer, the temperature can reach 40°C, and you can easily get sunburned. Luckily, air conditioning is actually the norm in Dubai. People think that when it is cooler, the sun is not as strong, but this is not true. Even in winter, the sun can be very strong and harmful. Always carry a water bottle to stay hydrated, a summer hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun, and hand sanitizer to keep clean in busy areas.
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The rental price comprises insurance, taxes, toll roads, 300 km per day of increased mileage, and a full tank of fuel as a gift. And no deposit is required from you. Contact your personal manager, who is always ready to help you and will answer all your questions if you need to clarify anything.
Now let's look at what women and men can and cannot wear in Dubai before jumping into your luxury car.
What to wear as a woman or man
What women are not recommended to wear in public places In Dubai:
- Too short skirts or wear shorts;
- Tight or clingy clothing;
- Transparent clothing;
- Clothing that exposes the stomach;
- Clothing with potentially offensive inscriptions or logos;
- Top or bottom clothing that shows underwear;
- Swimsuits or bikinis (except in pools and beaches).
What to wear in Dubai in public places? Women are allowed to:
- Wear shorts and skirts of the appropriate length;
- Pants or long trousers;
- T-shirts and jeans;
- Long dresses;
- Sneakers or sneakers;
- Shawls, capes.
These are the basics for women in Dubai, now, let’s look at the men’s acceptable wardrobe. What is not recommended for men to wear in public places:
- T-shirts with an excessively open neckline;
- Shirts that expose the stomach;
- Pants that are too tight or too tight;
- Clothes with potentially offensive inscriptions or logos;
- It is also forbidden to wear clothes of the opposite sex.
Recommended clothing for men:
- Jeans;
- Cotton pants;
- Long-sleeved shirts or T-shirts;
- Suits;
- Sneakers/trainers.
Nothing complicated, but you need to know more details about seasonal weather and specific places.
Dress Code For Winter
Dubai is mostly visited by tourists in January due to its pleasant weather. The winter months from December to March are also characterized by rainy days. The daytime is usually warm, with temperatures around 25°C, but at night it can be a bit chilly, up to 11°C. Therefore, there is no need for warm winter clothes.
Since it is neither too cold nor too hot, what to wear in Dubai? Try long sleeves and full-length bottoms. For women, it is better to choose long skirts. But if you want to wear knee-length skirts, light leggings, or stockings, this is also acceptable. It is usually warm during the day, so T-shirts and pants are a good combination. You can take a light sweater with you if necessary. In winter, it is better to wear shoes or light boots rather than sandals or flip-flops. Women can wear heels if they plan to go to pubs or clubs at night.
There is no need for separate clothes for men and women unless they are offensive, according to the general UAE dress code. The temperature drops a little in the evening, so you will need some winter clothes. Since there are also rainy days during the winter months, it is advisable to bring a raincoat.
Dress code at Dubai hotels, restaurants, and malls
The unwritten law of the UAE imposes the most restrictions and requirements on women's wardrobes. The fact that it is hot there (and from May to September, it is hellishly hot) does not mean anything. Women are not recommended to wear open, transparent, mesh clothing in the UAE and Dubai.
What should you wear in a hotel?
Short shorts, skirts, strapless tops, and low-cut necklines are acceptable in hotels (this is a tourist area), on the beach, and by the pool (preferably at the hotel). In public places (Dubai shopping malls, stores, markets, streets, squares, avenues, promenades, museums, and other places), women in the UAE should dress modestly.
How to dress for a restaurant?
Most hotels and restaurants list their dress code on their websites and social media. Be sure to check it out beforehand. Keep a modest front, but wear whatever you want. Women can wear T-shirts, tops with skinny jeans, knee-length skirts, maxi skirts, and dresses or wear short dresses. Nightclubs and pubs are a bit more relaxed, but anything that shows cleavage or thighs is strictly prohibited for women. Bikinis, swimsuits, miniskirts, and mini-shorts are not allowed in pubs.
How to dress for visiting shopping malls?
The best and safest way to visit Dubai Mall is to wear simple and casual clothes. Most malls have signs and stands at the entrance informing tourists about the modest dress code. Men can wear T-shirts, long trousers, and pants, while women can wear tops, knee-length shorts, trousers, and wide jeans. Avoid clothes that do not completely cover the shoulders and knees.
What to wear in rural areas, traditional markets, and mosques in the United Arab Emirates
When visiting Dubai mosques, women must adhere to Muslim traditions, wear a traditional dress — abaya, and cover their heads. These are often provided by the mosque which usually has a strict dress code. For men, when visiting the mosque, it is necessary to wear trousers, jeans or other pants, and any casual T-shirt or shirt that covers the shoulders, but in no case shorts or swimming trunks!
Souks are usually more conservative than other markets as they have centuries of tradition and strictly enforce dress codes. Local markets and traditional souks are full of local families and children. Generally, people prefer to wear clothes that will not make them turn their heads in your direction. Dress appropriately and as modestly as possible.
In rural areas show respect for their traditions and religion by avoiding wearing shorts, capris, mini dresses, skirts, or anything above the knee. Make sure your shoulders are well covered and wrap a scarf around your neck if you think you might catch someone's eye.
What to wear on the beach
There are two types of beaches in Dubai: public beaches that are frequented by locals and private beaches at hotels or pools that are mainly a tourist attraction. Private beaches are more liberal and allow you to wear almost anything you want. On the other hand, public beaches can be somewhat conservative.
Both beaches allow wearing any type of swimwear and swimming trunks as long as they are not transparent. Women can wear any one-piece swimsuit, burkini, or tracksuit. Men can wear almost anything they want as long as it is stylish. Wearing swimsuits is only allowed on the beaches and not on the streets.
Wearing wet underwear is also offensive as it becomes too tight and slightly see-through. Any swimsuit with a G-string or basically a thong is a total no-no. Try to choose minimalist swimwear as much as possible. Sunbathing topless on the beaches is not only offensive but also illegal in Dubai, so avoid it at all costs.
What to wear on desert safari
It is impossible to talk about Dubai without mentioning the famous Dubai Desert Safari. So, what to wear in Dubai to go on safari? A ride on the golden sands among the towering dunes is one of the most exciting adventures you can have in Dubai.
For both males and females, knee-length shorts are appropriate. Women can also wear knee-length skirts if they want. But you will have to walk a lot. Wear flip-flops or any other comfortable shoes. As for clothing, it should be light, but at the same time not transparent, but thick to protect the skin from the sun. You can’t sunbathe in the desert — you can only get sunburned, so you need to take care of protection. Creams will not save —only clothes.
Clothing restrictions
The general rule of how to dress in Dubai is to wear clothes that cover the shoulders and knees. Indecent exposure is frowned upon. Tourists should refrain from wearing clothes that are too tight or too revealing for both men and women. It is recommended to carry a light sweater or shawl in public places.
Also, be sure that you're dressing in Dubai according to the weather. Tourists can wear comfortable and loose clothes made of lightweight material as long as they are not too revealing. Steer clear of clothing and accessories with potentially offensive slogans or symbols. “Potentially” is the key word here because you never know.
Conclusion
The UAE is a country that has placed its bets on tourism. Therefore, guests are welcomed there and generally loved. The main thing is to observe etiquette and not to show disrespect to local residents — neither in words nor in appearance. And with Trinity Rental Boutique, you don't have to worry about comfortable travel around the city!
FAQ
Is the hijab mandatory for women in Dubai?
Although the country is Muslim, women are not required to wear the hijab except when visiting Dubai mosques.
What can tourists wear at a Dubai beach?
Bikinis are allowed on private beaches and by swimming pools, but it is best to avoid overly revealing styles. For women who wish to maintain a more conservative style, special one-piece swimsuits are available that cover more of the body and comply with Islamic traditions.
Can men go shirtless on Dubai beaches?
Men can go shirtless on beaches for sunbathing. But don't go shirtless outside the beach at all.
Can tourists wear casual outfits in Dubai?
While casual clothing may be appropriate in hotels or tourist attractions, more formal attire is needed in public places.
What to wear in Dubai during summer?
Dubai's climate is extremely hot. You will undoubtedly need lightweight clothing made of natural materials for your trip. Dresses, shorts, and suits for women. Men's knee-length shorts and loose pants.
What to wear in Dubai during winter?
During the day in Dubai in winter, the temperature remains comfortable, reminiscent of spring or early summer. Therefore, during the daytime, you can wear your usual summer clothes: T-shirts and light shirts. These items will be appropriate for walking around the city, and visiting Dubai shopping centers and cafes. Light fabrics will help avoid overheating in the sun.
Can you wear leggings in Dubai?
It's best to leave leggings and crop tops for the gym. Comfortable leggings are a great option to wear underneath dresses or skirts if you're concerned about their length. They're also perfect for flying.