The REAL Dubai dress code for women from a resident
I’m sure you’ve heard a whole mixture of opinions on what to wear in Dubai and honestly most of it isn’t even true! So if you’re still confused on what to wear in this city of extravagance without offending anyone, I honestly don’t blame you!
I’ve been in Dubai since 2013 and I’ve seen it dramatically change over the years and a lot of people are giving really outdated advice! This is the 100% real-life, lived information and not your standard “dress modestly” speech. Plus how to dress like a local if you don’t want it to be immediately obvious it’s your first time in Dubai. I’ll also cover what happens if you do break the ‘dress code’ rules.
Plus the one golden rule of dressing in Dubai that no one else will tell you!
Dubai Dress Code Summary
You may be surprised but Dubai legally doesn’t have an official dress code, however, nearly all venues have individual dress codes, such as casual, smart casual or smart elegant. It does however have ‘no obscenity’ laws which cover a wide range of public behaviour. Overall, Dubai is a liberal Muslim country and also a global luxury tourist destination. In nearly all situations, you would wear the same clothes as you would in any other warm tourist destination, except for religious sites and government buildings where modest dress is strictly enforced.
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What is the dress code in Dubai?
Officially the UAE has no legal dress code, however there are rules in relation to decency, which also covers how people dress. This applies to the whole of the UAE, not just Dubai.
Most venues set their own individual dress code such as modest dress, no local dress, smart casual, smart elegant or casual. This will be displayed either by a sign at the entrance or on their website. As an example, this sign from a park tells you to wear ‘decent’ dress.
So what is decent dress or non-obscene dress? Yes, it is a little ambiguous, and today’s Dubai has changed compared to years ago. Before, it would have meant shoulders covered and a skirt or shorts to the knee but these days it would mostly mean not having your butt out in shorts, not having underwear visible or an offensive slogan on your t-shirt.
It also differs by Emirate, for instance in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah etc I would advise to dress more modestly than Dubai for the simple reason that there’s less tourists and Westerners. As the idea of ‘decency’ changes.
In recent times there has been talk from locals about bringing back a stricter idea of ‘decency’ in Dubai so if you want to be more respectful, then having your shoulders covered, chest covered and longer shorts are the way to go. It’s definitely appreciated by the locals. However, yes you will also see a lot of women dressed in short dresses, short shorts and so forth, especially in touristy or nightlife areas.
The one exception is religious sites or government buildings when you MUST dress modestly and it’s best to pack a mix of outfits for Dubai, including modest options.
Locations where you must where modest dress:
- Mosques & religious buildings
- Government buildings and offices
- Police stations
The actual UAE penal code
Article 358 of the Penal Code states:
“Whoever publicly commits obscene act shall be subject to a fine of no less than AED One
Thousand and no more than AED Fifty Thousand. In case of repetition, the punishment shall be
incarceration for no more than three months and fine of no more than AED One Hundred
Thousand or one of them. The same punishment shall apply to any person who says or does any
act that violate public morals.”
It was changed from ‘decency’ and instead to ‘obscene’ which relaxed the laws of what is acceptable and mostly that your dress shouldn’t offend others rather than what is viewed as decent or not decent which can vary.
Being obscene doesn’t just cover clothes, it also covers behaviour and is defined legally as anything that “damages the dignity or honour of another person.” I might add, it would be very rare for someone to complain to the police but it’s best not to risk it.
Clothing that would be classed as nudity or near nudity would be classed as obscene so I would avoid clothing that is almost see-through and be aware of clothing that might become see-through when wet. I once had a skin coloured swimming costume as a child that was very poorly designed in that manner! Hugely embarrassing!
Being obscene is also swearing in public, swearing at people or flicking someone off when driving and yes they can indeed make a police complaint against you for those things!
You may be surprised but Dubai legally doesn’t have an official dress code, however, nearly all venues have individual dress codes, such as casual, smart casual or smart elegant. It does however have ‘no obscenity’ laws which cover a wide range of public behaviour. Overall, Dubai is a liberal Muslim country and also a global luxury tourist destination. In nearly all situations, you would wear the same clothes as you would in any other warm tourist destination, except for religious sites and government buildings where modest dress is strictly enforced.
Dubai dress code meanings
Security or hostesses at the front desk will deny entry if you don’t meet their individual dress code, so here are the meanings you need to know before you go:
- Swimwear allowed: Allows swimwear in the designated areas, usually the beach or pool. However, be aware that further away from the pool area or beach, you’ll usually need to cover up.
- Casual: Vest tops, t-shirts and flip-flops are allowed, excluding visible swimwear. However, check the details as some may exclude items like flip flops.
- Smart Causal: Flip-flops aren’t allowed. For men, vests and shorts are not allowed. T-shirts should cover the shoulders. For women, it’s more liberal but the outfit should be more dressy than casual. Typical smart casual would be jeans or a skirt and a nice top. Smart sneakers (trainers) are allowed but sports shoes or running shoes are usually not.
- Smart Elegant: This means you should be wearing a dinner jacket if you’re a man and a party-style dress as a woman with high heels and smart shoes. Restaurants will accept smart flat shoes for women, while nightclubs or other nightlife will usually require women to wear heels.
- Formal: You would rarely see this except for an event but means black tie, cocktail or long formal dresses for women. High heels for women and smart shoes for men.
- No local dress: Emirati clothes, this is a khandora for men or a black abaya for women, are not allowed. Bars or party-style venues typically say no local dress.
What to wear in Dubai
Simply wear what you’re comfortable in and is suitable for the activity you plan to do. Dubai’s climate means it’s mostly sunny warm weather all year round so it’s best to pack loose-fitting and light clothes that allow your body to breathe. As long as it isn’t see-through, you’re very unlikely to have any issues with your clothing.
Nearly everywhere has air-conditioned spaces, some restaurants or if you’re sitting outside at night in winter might feel a bit cold so it’s best to also take a light jacket or shawl. Some activities do require suitable clothing, such as visiting a mosque but Jumeirah Mosque even have modest clothing available, should you need it. Sheikh Zayed Mosque no longer lends free abayas but they do have shops you can buy from at the entrance but they tend to be priced higher than other abaya shops.
What to wear in Dubai in Winter
The typical temperatures in Dubai during winter are between 16°C and 26°C. Even the coldest month in January, it usually ranges between 14°C and 24°C degrees. February is also similar to January. Making Dubai the perfect warm destination for winter.
Due to the temperatures, It’s best to pack a mixture of summer clothes with a few light jackets for the evening time. The temperature doesn’t drop suddenly at night, like you may have experienced in other countries. I also recommend packing swimwear, sun hats, sunglasses, sunscreen and some dressy outfits for the evening.
The light jackets also come in handy for malls where there is air conditioning. If you plan to go to the cinema, for example, it can sometimes be a little bit chilly!
What to wear in Dubai in Summer
Similar to winter you’ll need to pack similar clothes, light breathable clothes, comfortable shoes, swimwear, a sun hat, sunglasses and a few dressy outfits for the evening time.
You will spend most of your time in air-conditioned spaces during the summer. So you can wear whatever outfit you like.
It is best to carry a few wet wipes, a little bit of make-up, a hairbrush and perfume to freshen up. Even getting out of the car for a few short minutes to your location can cause a hot sweaty mess! Thanks humidity.
Years ago the malls used to be almost freezing cold thanks to the air con but these days they’re less aggressive with the air con. It’s best to take a light jacket or shawl just in case you enter somewhere that is a little cooler or if by the sea with a colder breeze. Maybe I’m just oversensitive these days thanks to my many years of living in the warmth.
The golden rule for dressing in Dubai
No no no, not dress modestly, like all the other websites tell you!
The number one rule for visiting Dubai is to dress up! Pack your best clothes, your blingiest outfits and if you have any designer items, pack them! Dubai is a city where more is more and if you want to fit in with the locals, then dressing up is the way to go.
Even when in the mall, you will see women with full makeup as if they are going for a night out and smart casual outfits. The malls in Dubai are treated as a place to go rather than just picking up a few items. Overall, Dubai is very fashionable and it seems like almost every woman has a designer handbag matched with their designer heels.
What happens if you dress inappropriately in Dubai?
If someone approaches you about your outfit in Dubai, typically the security, they will inform you what needs correcting about your outfit. This may result in you being denied entry, asked to leave or they may direct to a shop where you can buy clothes.
There can be fines and penalties for breaking the law if deemed obscene but it is extremely rare for someone to face legal consequences for their outfit. The best thing to do is apologise and go somewhere to change your outfit before returning.
My personal experience
I once had to change my outfit at a Dubai visa office. My office skirt was to the knee but not below it. The security guard denied me entry and pointed at my legs. Thankfully, there was a cheap clothes shop nearby where I bought a pair of leggings and returned 15 minutes later. I was then allowed entry.
Final Thoughts on the Dubai Dress Code
So I hope that cleared up the Dubai dress code for you and what to wear or not wear as a woman or man when visiting Dubai!
Many tourists visit Dubai every year and Dubai is such a safe city for women so don’t let it being a Muslim country or worrying about dressing modestly put you off.
Despite what you read online, the modest dress code is rarely enforced in public places in Dubai and you’ll see many tourists not dressing modestly at all! Enjoy the beach and the sunny all-year-round weather in the clothes you usually wear.
Not sure which area to stay in Dubai? Take our FREE area quiz to help you decide which one is best for you as a family visiting Dubai.
Read more: Guides to help plan your Dubai visit
Here are some more helpful articles about Dubai before you go:
- What is Dubai like for women? Everything to know whether you’re visiting or planning to live in Dubai
- What is the climate of Dubai? Average temperatures, weather and more
- What’s the weather like in Dubai for December? What should I wear?
- How to save money when flying with Emirates Airlines for your holiday to Dubai
- What are the best malls in Dubai to visit? The best options for a shopping spree
- What country is Dubai in? Plus other facts about Dubai you need to know before you go!
- What is the climate of Dubai? Average temperatures, weather and more
- What are the traditional clothes of the UAE? What do Emiratis wear?
- The best restaurants with a view in Dubai you won’t want to miss!
Thank you for sharing the tips! I visited Dubai early this year and I was trying to find this type of information beforehand. It is always useful to know how not to attract unnecessary attention.
Lovely article with very honest and great information for first time travelers to the Emirates!
Fantastic article, even as someone who wears a hijab I often worry if I’m covered enough when visiting certain places in UAE, this breaks it down perfectly!