What To Wear In Dubai: A Guide For Tourists Traveling To The Gulf Nation

Many people have a predetermined idea when it comes to dressing and fashion sense in Islamic countries. Images of women in burkas and men in kurtas come to mind. People feel that all Islamic countries are conservative in nature and that you do not have any freedom in terms of the way you want to dress. 

When it comes to the United Arab Emirates, and specifically to Dubai, this notion is not true. Dubai is one of the most advanced, developed, and modern-looking societies in the world. In recent years, it has established itself as one of the world’s biggest commercial and financial capitals, on the lines of London, Tokyo, New York, and Shanghai!

This has allowed it to attract expats and tourists from all corners of the world. As compared to the rest of the Islamic world, Dubai can be considered as far more tolerant, modern, progressive, and forward-looking as far as dressing sensibilities are concerned. In this article, we are going to look at clothing items that you can wear in Dubai. 

Dress Code in Tourist Locations in Dubai: What can you wear?

Someone that is visiting Dubai for a vacation or shopping excursion has multiple questions when it comes to clothing. 

‘Can I wear shorts at the Dubai Mall?’, ‘Is it possible to wear a bikini at the beach?’, or, ‘Will I be forced to cover my head at all times with a veil?’ are questions most of us have. 

As we have already mentioned, Dubai aims to attract a large population of the world’s tourists. In fact, it is one of the most visited cities in the world right now. Here are some pointers that should help you- 

1. As long as you are sticking to the major tourist destinations, you can wear anything from shorts to mini dresses, and sleeveless maxis to tees. 
2. It is important to be mindful when it comes to fashion and clothing if you are traveling during the holy month of Ramadan. There might be restrictions then. 
3. The standard practice at malls and restaurants is that they ask their patrons to dress modestly. This means covering the hands and legs. However, this is a relaxed guideline. 
4. Men are supposed to be wearing long trousers and shoes when it comes to visiting the high-end restaurants that Dubai is famous for. 
5. You can wear beachwear only on the beach or in one of Dubai’s numerous water parks. Do not attempt to wear a bikini when you are visiting city squares. 

If you are planning to the old part of Dubai, where traditional markets like Gold Souq or Spice Souq are located, it would be best that you cover your body and dress modestly. 

You do not have to put on a burqa or anything, just wear clothes that cover most of your body parts. If you are looking at great clothing options to wear to Dubai, look no further than the asos discount code UAE. 

Clothing Fabrics that you should be Choosing in Dubai

When it comes to the weather and climatic conditions, people operate under the misconception that it is always very warm. That is not true. 

You should know that it is best that you opt for natural fabrics when traveling during the day. Mornings and afternoons can get a bit on the hotter and sweatier side in Dubai. Experts recommend that natural cotton and bamboo work best and allow for better breathability. 

It should also be pointed out that the air conditioning in malls and restaurants is always kept on the lower side. Do not be surprised when you start to feel cold as soon as you step into the Dubai Mall. 

To overcome this problem, ensure that you are packing some light cardigans or sweaters. If you want to go out and about in the evenings, you can carry a stylish jacket or two. 

In addition to the natural fabrics, it is advisable that you carry sunglasses with you at all times. The Middle-Eastern sun tends to be harsher and you do not want the UV rays spoiling your eyes at any point in time. If you want to go for something chic, try wearing a stylish bandana!

While denim looks like a logical choice when traveling, it should be avoided if you are in Dubai. It might get warm and takes a long time to dry out. You are better suited to carrying cotton pants, shorts, and dresses. 

Ten Items of Fashion Women should pack for their Dubai Trip

In this section, we are going to list down the top ten clothing/fashion items women should be packing in their bags when traveling to Dubai-

1. Jumpsuits (preferably linen)
2. Comfortable cotton pajamas
3. Kaftans and other types of sundresses
4. Shorts and minis
5. Cardigans and sweaters (light)
6. Scarves and bandanas
7. Beachwear (bikinis, burkinis, sarongs, etc.)
8. Cotton tees and tops
9. Camisole upper wear
10. Sunglasses and hats

If you are traveling to one of the scenic mosques, it goes without saying that you should be covering up from head to toe. Ensure that you are covering your hair with a veil. 

The Final Takeaway

Millions of tourists visit Dubai every single year. They shop at the best malls, eat at the fanciest restaurants, and let their hair down at the most expensive nightclubs in the world. In this article, we have given you a rundown of what you should be wearing on your next trip to Dubai. If you have any other queries that you would like us to address, please let us know in the comments section below. 

Read Also: Dubai Attractions & Fun Things to do in Dubai for First-timers 2022