How to Dress Properly in Dubai

Dubai is such an uber-chic modern travel destination, which is also a part of the United Arab Emirates. Therefore, when planning a visit, you need to make sure to pack the appropriate clothing that conforms to Islamic laws. Save yourself some awkward moments and respect the local law by checking out the tips listed in this article on how to dress properly in Dubai.

Your Packing List for Dubai

Wondering about the type of clothes to pack on your holiday to Dubai? It all depends on which area of the city you are visiting. Downtown Dubai or even the Jumeirah areas are more laidback and you will notice people tend to dress in casual clothing, which is comfortable. However, when visiting the souks and the more traditional markets or districts of Dubai, you will have to wear modest clothing, which may at times require a scarf to cover your head (if you are a female).

Do keep in mind the weather, which can be stiflingly hot. Therefore, make sure to pack modest yet comfortable clothing. Cool cottons are an ideal choice. You will sweat less and be able to better manage the suffocating heat which, at times, will rise to around 55°C. Now here’s the conundrum. While dressing in light cotton clothing to beat the heat outside, you will find you are lacking a layer or two of clothing once you head inside a mall or any other building. The interiors tend to be icy cold because people have their air-conditioners working on full blast. The solution is to carry a light cardigan, tied around your waist or in your backpack for easy access. Choosing to stay at one of the 5 star resorts Dubai has to offer will not only offer you modern comforts but a chance to dress as you please. You can even enjoy beach vibes and plenty of fun choosing hotels such as Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, located on the iconic Palm Jumeirah manmade archipelago (made to resemble a palm tree).

When Out Shopping – The Do’s and Don’ts of Dress in Dubai

Dubai is quite liberal and will tolerate modern dress such as shorts or short skirts; however, it is your responsibility as a visitor to respect the locals and not offend or cause embarrassment to some. The malls, especially, are full of locals, here is a list of what to wear.

Dresses – knee-length, sleeveless or short-sleeved is allowed

Skirts and shorts (modest lengths)

T-shirts

Pants

Tank tops, or any type of top

Long dresses

Any kind of footwear including flip-flops

Do not wear the following

Tight or form-fitting dresses

Bikinis or swimwear

See-through clothing

Tops that are sheer and show your bra

Clothing that exposes the mid-riff

Short-shorts

T-shirts bearing offensive or dark humour slogans, which can cause offence

These rules apply to both genders, men must not wear pants that are too tight or shirts that reveal their midriff.

What to Wear at The Beach or When Dining Out in Dubai

You can dress as you please when chilling at the beach of your private resort in Dubai. However, the public beaches are open to all, and you will notice a large number of men hang around these beaches, which allow tourists to dress as they please. Hence, if you don’t wish to be ogled at, dress modestly although you are at the beach. In recent years, several people were caught taking pictures of women on the beach. Here is a list of clothing you can wear at the public beaches of Dubai.

Sports clothing

Burkinis

One-piece bathers

Wet suits

Men can wear any type of swimwear, which is not white in colour. When dining out, you can wear anything you like other than see-through or revealing clothing, which will not offend other diners.

Overall, remember to respect the customs at all times and you will be fine. Enjoy your time in Dubai.