An overview of the dress code of the UAE
Foreigners coming from all over the world to visit the UAE or to stay in the country as expats go through a meaningful experience that combines customs, traditions, the highest levels of innovative technologies, and the best standards of living. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to comprehend the dress code expats and foreigners inside the UAE are expected to wear. This dress code is mainly based on the values of Islam, several cultural aspects, and also represents an important way for mutual respect.
People who visit the UAE from all over the globe start knowing what’s proper to wear in different places and occasions according to the culture and the traditions of the country. In this article, we will be highlighting some of the major principals of the dress code in the UAE.
Clothing in the Islamic perspective
Considered as one of the Islamic countries in the world, the residents of the UAE have respect to Islamic traditions and learning. This does not prohibit non-Moslems from wearing certain clothes. However, mutual respect is the key.
A good advice is that women, generally speaking, should cover their knees and shoulders in public spaces. Outfits that are too tight are also quite not recommended. On the other hand, it is expected from men to cover the upper part of their body, wearing shirts or T-shirts, except while enjoying their time on beaches or in the swimming pool.
Dress code in the UAE
It doesn’t really matter if you are visiting the UAE for a short period for a holiday, or you are staying in the country for a longer period of time. It is crucial to respect the culture and customs of the country. Modesty is one of the major key words in this matter.
General guidelines for dress code in the UAE
- As a general rule, women are expected to cover their knees and shoulders in various public places including shopping malls, cafes, and of course inside governmental buildings.
- Wearing baggy trousers and loose outfits represent one of the best choices for clothing in the UAE. They are comfortable in hot and humid weather conditions and they also abide by the dress code of the UAE.
- It’s a great idea for ladies in the UAE to have a scarf with them at different times, in case they have to go inside a mosque or visit a traditional area where more conservative clothes are expected.
- In places where families gather in the UAE, women are advised to wear more conservative outfits. These places include parks, traditional markets, and various cultural occasions and festivals.
- Look for dress code guidelines at the entrance of any place to adhere to its rules and regulations.
Dress code in Mosques and various holy areas
Visitors to the UAE should understand that certain holy places, especially mosques, require a specific dress code. Women should abide by certain rules in terms of their outfits that should cover their arms, legs, and hair. Additionally, ladies visiting a mosque must wear wide and loose clothes. On the other hand, several mosques in the UAE provide visitors with “Abaya” to cover ladies’ bodies before entering inside this holy site.
What to wear in Governmental buildings and at work in the UAE
When foreigners or expats visit governmental buildings or authorities in the UAE, there is a certain dress code as well that they should abide by. This includes not wearing any casual items like tops with no sleeves and shorts. It’s always preferrable to wear semi official outfits like smart suits, trousers, and skirts that cover the knee for women. This is to show respect to employees either in governmental authorities or at work.
Shopping malls and various attractions
Like most Islamic or eastern countries around the world, when visiting malls, attending festivals, and exploring different attractions, tourists should wear comfortable yet sort of conservative clothes that do not reveal big parts of the body, especially for women. Men, on the other hand, should avoid topless outfits.
Final thoughts
Tourists and expats in the UAE should respect the customs and beliefs of the Emeriti people. The general rule is to never wear outfits or clothes that are transparent or too revealing. Another great advice is to ask about the dress code of various places including governmental buildings, mosques, touristic attractions, and malls.
