Dress Code in Dubai: Everything you need to know

The Middle Eastern city of Dubai is known to be a melting pot of various cultures and ethnicity. People from all over the world are known to flock to this glam city which becomes their home in due course of time.

Dubai is a tolerant and liberal city but its degree of tolerance does vary from many other parts of the world. When it comes to dressing, the city has its own set of rules which residents and visitors are expected to abide by. 

Luxhabitat takes you through the ultimate guide of dress code for men and women in Dubai.

Women

It is not mandatory for women in Dubai to have their hair or faces covered when it public. But if one intends to visit a mosque, she will need to cover her hair, arms and legs. 

However, while in public, it is advised of women to have their shoulders and knees covered as a sign of respect to the UAE's culture. They can choose t-shirts with sleeves that cover their upper arm instead of spaghetti tops that are not appreciated in public areas. Clothes that are too tight and those that have low-cut also should be avoided in public places. It is also advisable of women to wear such clothes that do not expose their knees. While visiting government offices, one should strictly follow the city's dress code. In traditional places like souqs, markets and similar areas, dressing conservatively is highly advised. A swimsuit is accepted on beaches and in swimming pools but should not be worn outside the beach or pool area. 

Although dress code at workplaces depends on the respective company, it is best that women dress modestly by wearing knee-length dresses, skirts or full-length trousers with shirts that cover their upper arms. 

Men

Wearing shorts while in public may not invite any problem for men but wearing cycling shorts or boxer shorts should be avoided. Cycling shorts are only accepted while cycling.

While at a sports venue, men can opt for sports clothing but should avoid them while at other places, except for t-shirts and shorts which are accepted elsewhere as well. Also, t-shirts that feature offensive slogans or pictures, gestures, or obscene language are not acceptable. While visiting a Mosque, one must wear long trousers.

At workplaces, smart casuals with short or long sleeved collared shirts with long trousers are considered appropriate. Wearing a tie or a suit entirely depends on the dress code of the company where one is working with. However, professionals like pool attendees and sports instructors wear shorts while at work, which is acceptable.

Consequences Of Not Abiding By The Code

If one comes across an objection against the clothes he is wearing, it is always best to fix it and not get into an argument which is sure to make the matter worse.

Generally, the police do not particularly look out for offensively dressed residents and visitors, but surely responds to complaints.