Understanding the UAE Dress Code
The UAE is a very friendly country that welcomes guest from all parts of the world. However, foreigners who’re visiting or living here are expected to respect the social norms and values of the locals here – which makes sense. When you stay over at a friend’s or a relative’s, you try to be mindful and respectful of their house rules, right?
Now, it’s important to note that the UAE is a Muslim country that abides by the Islamic Sha’aria law. And as such, all residents and tourists are required to dress in a modest manner – regardless of the weather. That’s the reason why many people do research on the dress code in Dubai before they book their flight.
While you won’t be put in prison for not complying with the local dress code, you may attract a few stern looks from other people, and a some may even come up to you and gently advise you to cover up as it’s disrespectful of the local culture.
Why Does Dubai Have a Dress Code?
All the emirates of the UAE – including Dubai – are very family friendly cities, and the local government expects people to dress in a “family-friendly” manner. The locals here are quite conservative, and don’t want their children to see people wear bikinis or speedos in the mall – regardless of how hard they’ve worked on their summer bod.
So just remember, when you step out in public space, wear something that’s appropriate enough for children to see you in.
What Should You Wear in Dubai?
The dress code you should follow in Dubai really depends upon where you’re planning to go. In some areas, such as Jumeirah Beach, you’ll see people are dressed a bit more casually. However, in public areas, such as malls and parks, it’s advisable to dress more modestly. Let’s take a look at what you can and shouldn’t wear in Dubai:
Women’s Dress Code in Dubai
What you can wear:
- Long, loose-fitting, flowing dresses
- Pants
- Jeans
- Short sleeves or sleeveless t-shirts
What you shouldn’t wear:
- Tight dresses that reveal the contours of the body
- Bikinis and swimsuits
- Clothes that reveal too much cleavage
- T-shirts with inappropriate jokes or slogans
- Short skirts
Men’s Dress Code in Dubai
What you can wear:
- Jeans
- Cotton pants
- Trousers
- T-shirts
What you shouldn’t wear:
- Low-cut tank tops (no nipples peeking out please)
- Swimsuits
- Pants that are too tight
- High hanging shorts that don’t cover the strong
Whether you need your birth certificate attestation or your marriage certificate attested in Dubai or, you need your degree attested or require Apostille services, Benchmark is a full-range attestation service provider that offers everything. Just reach out! Get in touch with us online or call at +971 50 474 1340.