What Is the Dress Code for Dubai?

By Robert Palmer

When traveling to Dubai, it’s important to be aware of the dress code in order to show respect for the local culture and avoid any potential cultural misunderstandings. Dubai is a Muslim country with a conservative dress code that must be followed in public places.

What is the dress code for men?
Men are expected to wear long pants or jeans and shirts with sleeves. T-shirts are acceptable as long as they don’t have offensive language or graphics. Shorts and tank tops are not allowed in public areas.

What is the dress code for women?
Women must dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees. Clothing should not be tight-fitting or revealing.

It’s recommended that women wear loose-fitting clothing made of lightweight fabrics such as cotton or linen. Headscarves are not required, but it’s respectful to cover your head when entering a mosque.

What should you avoid wearing?
In general, clothing that is too revealing or tight-fitting should be avoided. Swimsuits should only be worn at the beach or pool. Additionally, clothing with offensive language or graphics should not be worn in public places.

Business Attire

If you’re attending a business meeting in Dubai, it’s important to dress professionally. Men should wear a suit and tie, while women should opt for conservative clothing such as a suit or knee-length skirt with a blouse.

Mosques

When visiting mosques, it’s important to dress conservatively out of respect for the sacred space. Both men and women should cover their arms and legs, and women should also cover their heads.

Beachwear

At beaches and pools, swimsuits are allowed but they should still be modest. Women can wear one-piece swimsuits or bikinis with a cover-up over them. Men can wear swim trunks but shouldn’t go shirtless.

  • Men should wear long pants or jeans and shirts with sleeves.
  • Women must dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees.
  • Clothing should not be tight-fitting or revealing.
  • Swimsuits should only be worn at the beach or pool.
  • Clothing with offensive language or graphics should not be worn in public places.

In Conclusion

It’s important to respect the local culture when traveling to Dubai. By following the dress code guidelines, you’ll show respect for the local customs and traditions.

Modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees is recommended, and it’s best to avoid clothing that is too revealing or offensive. When in doubt, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and dress more conservatively.