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Dubai What to Wear Guide

A Guide to Dressing in Dubai

Dubai, the dazzling metropolis that rises from the desert sands, offers a captivating blend of modern luxury and rich cultural heritage. While packing your suitcase for this unforgettable adventure, a crucial question arises: what to wear in Dubai? Dubai What to Wear Guide

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If you are planning to travel to the United Arab Emirates and don’t know how to dress in Dubai and other places like Abu Dhabi, this article is just for you. We will tell you some tips for tourists, especially to avoid possible offenses and misunderstandings, even though there is no dress code. Dressing modestly in this country is a way of complying and respecting its values and cultural practices.

Weather in Dubai Dubai What to Wear Guide

Dubai offers a pleasant escape from October to February. These cooler months, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C, attract many tourists seeking opportunities for outdoor activities. Between April and November, the weather can become hot and sticky. In summer, the heat is from May to September. The temperature is 35 and 55 °C. People must dress modestly, especially during the warm summers.

Clothes to travel to Dubai

If it is a long-term trip, it is best to travel in comfortable clothes, which can be classic jeans and a light T-shirt or a sweatshirt in neutral tones, accompanied by a coat and sneakers or shoes in traditional colors that you can easily combine with other clothes.

Usually, to go to shopping centers, dresses, and long or knee-height skirts are excellent options so that women are always comfortable and fresh. Men, meanwhile, can wear shorts or light fabric and short-sleeved shirts.

Is there a dress code for tourists?

Luckily for you, there is no dress code for tourists in Dubai. Despite this, it is advisable to follow some guidelines on how to dress. Dubai is a modern and cosmopolitan city, but being a Muslim country, its society continues to be conservative. In this sense, it is essential to know what tourists wear to avoid feeling out of place in this city. We will discuss what women wear and what men wear in different situations.

Balancing Style and Respect Dubai What to Wear Guide

Dubai is a unique fusion of East and West, where towering skyscrapers share the skyline with traditional mosques. Understanding this cultural blend is key to navigating the city’s dress code. Respecting local customs demonstrates your appreciation for their heritage and enhances your overall experience.

 Dubai What to Wear GuideHow to dress in Dubai (women)

For women, it is recommended to wear in Dubai garments that cover the shoulders and knees, even in shopping malls. Women wear shorts or long-sleeved shirts and skirts or pants that are knee-length. Discreet swimsuits are also allowed and must always be accompanied by a bathrobe or beach outfit without transparencies. Also, in these situations, you can wear sandals or flip-flops.

On the other hand, in religious temples, such as mosques, women wear a headscarf and clothing that completely covers their bodies; in some cases, they can wear dresses. In case you forget this recommendation, on the outskirts of some mosques, the abaya rental service is provided; that is, a traditional Islamic garment for women, which can be considered a Dubai dress code.

Dubai has some of the world’s largest and most luxurious shopping malls. When visiting a shopping mall, it is best to dress modestly. Avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, or low-cut dresses. Instead, opt for longer skirts, pants, and tops that cover your shoulders. You may also want to bring a scarf to wrap your head, especially during the summer. Dubai What to Wear Guide

Most hotels in Dubai have a relaxed dress code

However, it is still best to avoid wearing revealing clothing. If you stay at a luxury hotel, you may want to dress up more for dinner and drinks. The dress code for restaurants in Dubai varies depending on the restaurant. Some restaurants have a strict dress code, while others are more relaxed.

Here are some general tips for how to dress modestly in those places in Dubai:
  • Choose loose-fitting clothing that covers your shoulders and knees; it can be casual clothes like capri pants or long-sleeved t-shirts.
  • Avoid wearing revealing clothing, such as short shorts, tight pants, tank tops, or short dresses.
  • If you are wearing a skirt or dress, you may want to wear leggings or tights underneath.
  • You may also want to bring a scarf to cover your head and shoulders, especially when entering a mosque or other religious site, or when you wear summer dresses.

In Dubai, there are not many restrictions when you go to the beach. You can wear bikinis or your favorite bathing suit, but it doesn’t hurt to prepare clothes with discreet designs and colors, along with a bathing suit when leaving the beach, since it is not allowed to walk in light clothes in the surroundings of the beaches.

Some additional tips for how to dress modestly at the beach
  • Avoid wearing see-through or revealing swimwear.
  • Choose swimwear that covers your shoulders and knees.
  • You can wear flip flops, sandals or similar.
  • If you wear a bikini, you may want to wear a kaftan or sarong when walking around the beach or pool area.
  • Do not walk outside of the beach or pool area in your swimwear.

What not to wear for women in Dubai

Avoid wearing tight or transparent clothing; do not wear low necklines, sleeveless t-shirts, short skirts, very tight pants, white bikinis, and crop tops. Avoid clothing that does not cover your stomach, that reveals your underwear that is torn or worn, and that does not have things that may be offensive.

Remember that these are just a few tips and that there is no set Dubai dress code. All tips are intended to maintain a dress that keeps you in tune with the local society and culture.

 Dubai What to Wear Guide

How to dress in Dubai (men)

If you are wondering how men should dress in Dubai, we recommend you use casual clothing, such as T-shirts or short or long-sleeved shirts and long pants in breathable fabrics or cotton.

If you wear shorts, they must go to the knee, and as for shoes, you can wear any shoe, such as tennis shoes, sandals, or hiking boots, that let you walk comfortably for long distances.

What to wear in Dubai for men in public places

As with women, it is also advisable for men to maintain a conservative dress code in public places, including shopping malls and hotels. In this case, the clothing is more inclined to balance comfort and respect for the culture. Wear casual outfits, and you will have no problems.

Some tips on what to wear in Dubai for men in those places
  • Cover your knees and shoulders. This is the basic rule of dress for men in Dubai. It applies to all public areas, including shopping malls, hotels, and restaurants.
  • Avoid wearing tight or revealing clothing. This includes swimwear, sleeveless shirts, and shorts that are too short.
  • Choose comfortable and breathable fabrics. Dubai can be very hot, so it is important to wear clothes that will keep you cool and comfortable.
  • Consider the occasion. If you are visiting a more upscale restaurant or hotel, you may want to dress more formally. However, even in these cases, you do not need to wear a suit and tie.

What to wear in Dubai for men at the beach, swimming pool, and water park

Men can wear any swimwear at the beach in Dubai, as long as it is not too revealing. This includes swim trunks, board shorts, and rash guards. Avoid wearing white swim shorts, as they can become transparent when wet.

It is also important to note that some Dubai beaches and pools have specific dress code rules for men. For example, some beaches may not allow men to wear sleeveless shirts. It is always best to check the dress code of the beach or pool you plan to visit before you go.

What to wear for men in Dubai desert safari and natural environments

If you plan on doing activities such as dune bashing or camel riding, you may want to wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt to protect your skin from the sand. You may also want to bring a scarf or bandana to cover your face and mouth from the dust. Long pants or shorts, a t-shirt or polo shirt, and sneakers or hiking boots are also good options. All of this clothing is more weather-driven than dress code-driven.

What not to wear for men in Dubai

Avoid wearing ripped vests, shirts, and pants. Also, do not use transparent fabrics or tight garments; never wear shirtless or show your tattoos. Whenever possible, wear classic-style clothing to avoid misunderstandings in public places.

As with women, there is no established dress code for men. However, the recommendation to dress conservatively is maintained.

 Dubai What to Wear GuideTips for traveling to Dubai What to Wear Guide

There are many reasons why it is very nice to travel to Dubai. First of all, for its culture and traditions, its modern architecture and imposing skyscrapers, its luxurious beaches and hotels, its varied commercial and gastronomic offers, and its multiple adventure activities inside and outside the city.

Conclusion: Dressing for Dubai – A Memorable Experience Awaits

Conquering Dubai’s diverse landscapes and experiences requires a touch of sartorial strategy. By understanding the cultural nuances and packing versatile pieces, you can navigate the city with confidence and style. Remember, dressing appropriately demonstrates respect for the local customs and enhances your overall Dubai adventure. Embrace the vibrant energy, immerse yourself in the rich heritage, and create memories that will last a lifetime – all while looking fabulous, of course!

Driven by wanderlust and a passion for tech, Sandra is the creative force behind Alertify. Love for exploration and discovery is what sparked the idea for Alertify, a product that likely combines Sandra’s technological expertise with the desire to simplify or enhance travel experiences in some way.