What to Wear In Dubai – Complete Guide for Tourist

Planned a Dubai vacation but bothered by the indecision about what you should be wearing there? Well, you have come to the right place! You may have heard that Dubai is quite strict about how people turn up in public. Before you land there, you should know exactly how strict it is, shouldn’t you? You need to learn how the feelings of the authorities and people in Dubai can shape what you put in your wardrobe.

The United Arab Emirates, of which Dubai is a part, is an Islamic nation that follows Sharia law. The religion of Islam promotes modesty in dress. Hence, as a show of respect to the local customs, you should dress modestly as well. You won’t end up behind bars if your clothes are found to be inappropriate, but it’s best to respect local sensibilities, isn’t it?

The United Arab Emirates, especially Dubai, is quite relaxed about clothing. It is because many expats live here, making it an international business hub. However, you should know where to draw the line. In this article, we’ll tell you what you should wear and what you should avoid so you don’t cross what’s considered the limits of modesty here in Dubai.

What You Wear in Dubai

The weather when you land in Dubai somewhat decides what you should wear. Even when it’s winter, the temperatures here rarely drop below 15 degrees Celsius. Let’s look into what you should be wearing in Dubai at what time of the year.

1. From December to February

December to February is the best time of the year to visit Dubai. You’ll be able to avoid the intense heat of the city as the temperature ranges between a pleasant 15 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 25 degrees Celsius. It gets pretty chilly in the evenings, and therefore, it will be wise for you to carry a light jacket. If you’re looking to sunbathe, both ends of the month are perfect for it. In addition, you won’t feel hot when you enjoy the sights and sounds of Dubai wearing modest attire like long-sleeved shirts and trousers.

2. The months of March and April

This is when the temperatures start rising and they hit the high thirties and even the forties. It’s the perfect time of the year to go swimming and sunbathe. Since the heat’s rising, you can turn up in casual wear, slipping on a T-shirt and a pair of jeans. Cotton clothing also makes you feel comfortable in March and April. If you are looking to experience the desert safari, here is what to wear during a safari trip to make it comfortable.

3. From May to October

This is when Dubai gets extremely hot, and many consider visiting the city out of the question. Temperatures go past forty degrees Celsius and almost hit 50. You should carry items like a sun hat and a pair of sunglasses to protect yourself from the scorching sun. Additionally, buy a scarf to cover your ears from the hot breeze. The heat is so extreme, you can’t stay outdoors too long. Between May and October, typical summer clothing is what you should consider in Dubai. Look for half-sleeved cotton shirts and trousers. T-shirts and short pants are perfect for a walk in the evenings after sundown. Women may turn up in sleeveless tops to beat the heat. You’ve only got to make sure that you cover your knees and shoulders. In other words, don’t expose too much.

4. November

This is when the temperatures in Dubai start dipping again, and you’ll find them hovering in the high twenties and low thirties. The beach clubs and the pools start ushering in guests again after the long summer break. You’ll enjoy the warm sunny weather in Dubai without finding it scorching. It’s the ideal time to visit Dubai’s beaches. Many hotels and clubs in Dubai have their private beaches. You can take the liberty of being a bit bold with your swimwear there. However, if it’s a public beach you are visiting where a lot of families come as well, you must be conservative about what you wear.

What You Wear at Different Places in Dubai

In Dubai, the attires are also depended on where you are heading to. But worry not because we are here with the list to make it more easy for you.

1. Shopping Malls & Restaurants

It will be fully air-conditioned, so women can go for long dresses or trousers with a top. Whereas men can wear a t-shirt and jeans. Moreover, the sleeveless outfits are also acceptable.

2. Mosques and Religious Sites

You should cover up completely at such attractions. Women should go for long, full-covered and loose-fitting clothes along with a head scarf. Men should also wear proper attires that cover their hands and legs and a scarf on their head. Everyone should avoid sleeveless or quarter-sleeved tops at all costs.

3. Beach Clubs & Hotels

You can wear your swimsuits and bikinis at the private beach areas of hotels. However, make sure you cover yourself up before walking into the hotel lobbies and public areas.

4. Public Beaches & Parks

Dubai’s public beaches are family-friendly zones, but you should be a bit conservative here with your swimwear. One-piece suits and modest bikinis are good to go, but cover yourself before you enter the beaches and exit them.

5. Nightclubs & Bars

These are completely relaxed locations where you can wear anything you like without going overboard. Women can go for cocktail dresses and heels, while men can wear smart casuals. Other than that, if there are specific dress codes by the clubs, then make sure to follow them.

Tips for Women Travelers

Carry a scarf or shawl as it can come in handy at religious sites.
Avoid see-through and tight-fitting clothes in public spaces. Breathable fabrics are a wise choice.
If you are unsure about what is appropriate, then go for layering clothes. It will help you to keep a perfect balance between style and modesty.

Footwear Choices in Dubai

It is a topic that is very easily neglected by every tourist. We are here to help you with the right choices.

Flip-flops & sandals are perfect for the beach and lounging by the pool.
Comfortable sneakers for sightseeing at vast attractions. For example, the Global Village and Al Fahidi Historical District.
Closed shoes or loafers for malls and business venues.
High heels for clubbing or a night out.

Dressing During Ramadan

Dubai asks to be more mindful of what you wear during the holy month of Ramadan. These are not just rules but a display of respect to the local culture.

Both men and women should avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and tight-fitting clothes.
Respectful to wear long-sleeved tops and full-length pants or skirts even in places where casual dresses are acceptable.
Do not wear anything with offensive language, whether it is Ramadan or not.

Stay Prepared for Chilled Air Conditioners

To escape the scorching heat of Dubai, every place in the city is air-conditioned. We tell you, the air conditioning is very, very strong, it’s absolutely chilled! It’s not just the large shopping malls; even modest coffee shops here have good, strong air conditioning. While it’s unbearably hot outside, as you step into any building, you’ll experience a stark contrast in temperatures—from burning heat to extreme cold. We advise you to keep yourself prepared for this sharp change in temperatures when you enter buildings. It is advisable to carry a light sweater or a shawl when shopping at a mall or enjoying dinner, as the strong air conditioning can make things pretty chilly.

Dubai’s General Dress Code

The general rule of the dress code is to avoid exposing yourself too much. Make sure that you cover your knees and shoulders. As such, off-shoulder dresses are a strict no-no for women in public places. Men can wear shorts provided their knees are covered. For women, we suggest maxi skirts or long trousers.

Since Dubai is very hot for much of the year, it’s best to wear loose clothes that don’t stick to your skin. It helps you make feel comfortable. Opt for silk and linen blended clothing. As a woman, you would do well to carry a scarf or a shawl so you can cover yourself up for more modesty should the need arise, especially at places of worship.

Conclusion

Being an international business hub and home to many expats, Dubai is far more liberal than any other city in the Middle East. That said, you should still take care to see that you cover yourself well in public spaces. While you won’t be arrested if you are found in clothes considered inappropriate, you will still invite long stares followed by a polite cautioning by the police. Respect local sensibilities and enjoy your stay in amazing Dubai.