When traveling to Dubai, choosing the clothes to wear to face the heat of the desert while respecting Islamic traditions can be a challenge. Although the United Arab Emirates is a country considered to be more liberal than other Arab states, it is still an Islamic state that adheres to traditional values.
As any visitor who respects the host country’s traditions, it is good to make sure that choosing clothes you pack and wear in Dubai will not bring an offense to the sensitivity of the locals. So, the question is: what to wear in Dubai? Let’s imagine some situations. And, when in Dubai, don’t forget to do these 21 things.
What to wear in Dubai – In shopping malls and markets (souk)
Signs at the entrance to gigantic malls in the Emirates remind visitors to dress modestly. Women should be covered from the shoulders to the knees. You should not wear tight things, clothes that show shapes or are transparent. The sleeveless blouses, the ones with braces, vests, shorts, and mini skirts, are not allowed. Naturally, the abdomen and the breasts should not be shown. Without deep cleavages, low waist jeans, or split skirts. Three-quarter trousers, long sleeve blouses, and short sleeve shirts are accepted.
For traditional markets such as gold, fish, and food markets, it is recommended to dress modestly and avoid attracting attention.
What to wear in Dubai – Visiting the Jumeirah Mosque
The dress code is strictly observed if you plan to visit the Jumeirah Mosque. Women must wear long sleeve blouses, wide clothes and have their knees covered. On their heads, they must have a wave. If you are female and you are not appropriately dressed, you will be lent a long black dress to pull over your clothes and a wave of the same color.
What to wear in Dubai – At the hotel’s pool
On the beaches of the hotels in Dubai or near a swimming pool, women can dress in a bikini swimsuit, but topless is not allowed. If you need to go through the hotel lobby to reach the pool, it is best to be covered out of respect for other tourists. Wrapping yourself in a towel is not enough.
For example, at Le Meridien Myna Seyahi, the elevator has access to the lower floor, which crosses the hotel lobby and is connected with the beach area. Of course, you can meet other people in the elevator, so it is recommended a little discretion.
What to wear in Dubai – In the Dubai restaurants
As a woman in the restaurants of Dubai, you can dress up in evening outfits that bare your shoulders. Get a shawl to cover you till you get to the restaurant. It will keep you warm, as many locations have air conditioning adjusted to low temperatures. If you want to serve tea at Burj Al Arab Hotel, you will be advised what to wear when you make the reservation.
What to wear in Dubai – For safaris in the desert
If you’re going to participate in a circuit among the dunes or a desert safari, the advice is to wear whatever you like, including shorts and vests. The trip begins in the afternoon to cope with the heat and lasts until the fall of the evening. Temperatures can drop a little in the desert, but even so, you don’t need a sweater. Sandals or slabs are recommended for the feet, rather than sneakers, considering that you will only step on fine sand that goes everywhere.
With these tips, you are now ready to choose which clothes to put in your luggage and ensure that what you wear in Dubai will not be considered offensive. And when visiting Dubai at night, don’t forget to check these 25 cool places!
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