Dress Smart & Respect Local Culture

Dubai is a dazzling melting pot of cultures, but it is also a city rooted in Islamic tradition. Showing respect for the local culture through your attire is not only appreciated but also ensures a comfortable and hassle-free visit. While the dress code for tourists is generally relaxed, understanding the nuances will help you navigate different settings with confidence.

General Guidelines for Public Spaces

In most public places like shopping malls, restaurants, and the Dubai Metro, the rule of thumb is to dress modestly. This typically means ensuring your shoulders and knees are covered. For men, this means avoiding sleeveless tank tops and wearing shorts that reach the knee. For women, it's advisable to opt for tops with sleeves, and skirts or trousers that are knee-length or longer. Sheer or overly revealing clothing should be avoided.

Packing lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and viscose will be your best bet to stay cool in the heat while remaining respectful. A pashmina, shawl, or light cardigan is an incredibly versatile accessory to have on hand; you can easily drape it over your shoulders if you feel you need extra coverage or are entering a more conservative area.

Visiting Religious Sites

When visiting a mosque, such as the beautiful Jumeirah Mosque, the dress code is stricter. Women will be required to cover their heads, arms, and legs completely. Men should wear long trousers. Mosques that are open to tourists often provide abayas (a long, loose-fitting robe) and headscarves (shaylas) for visitors to borrow, ensuring everyone can enter respectfully.

At the Resort or Beach

Within your hotel, resort, or at a private beach club, standard swimwear like bikinis and swimsuits is perfectly acceptable. However, it's important to cover up with a kaftan, t-shirt, or shorts when you leave the immediate pool or beach area to walk through the hotel lobby or visit a restaurant.