Before I visited Dubai, I was thankful somebody told me about a couple of fashion rules. I did a bit of research to make sure I knew what I can and can’t wear. Now I have visited, I feel comfortable writing a post to inform others that are thinking ‘what should I wear in Dubai?’ I have also written a post Things You Must Do in Dubai.
Be sure to check out my other post which are helpful for general travel. Try curbing homesickness, surviving a long haul flight and travel apps that everyone needs!
So, what should I wear in Dubai and why?
I have split this post into sections: women, men and children.
One thing to note is that these pieces of advice are for when you are in public. You should be able to wear what you want if you are staying in a hotel resort, although nudity is forbidden. If you decide to visit Dubai Mall or other public places, then please be respectful.
Why do I have to wear a certain type of clothes?
Every place has a different kind of culture, and it is important that we respect that, especially as travellers and tourists. The United Arab Emirates, the country in which Dubai is in, is a Muslim country and it is their values as a religion to dress appropriately.
Dubai is a hot city, with their winters roughly 26/27 degrees Celsius, and their summers reaching 50 degrees C. It’s important you take this into account when deciding your wardrobe. Loose cotton clothes are best, and light colours too.
What should women wear?
When picking your outfit, it is respectful for women to cover their shoulders, knees and cleavage. Clothing should also not be transparent or displaying offensive pictures or slogans.
I recommend getting a jumpsuit! The one in the picture below is one I purchased from Boohoo, it’s very light and breathable, respects the culture and (I think anyway) looks good!
If you’re not a fan of jumpsuits, you can also wear dresses or skirts that go past the knee or leggings and a t-shirt.
As mentioned before, I got my clothes from Boohoo, which is a brilliant place to buy summer clothes all year round. I do recommend looking at there to start off with, especially as I found their fabric to be stretchy and light.
Shoe wise, you cannot wear flipflops although I am unsure on the reason why. Since you’ll do a fair amount of walking if you go out in public (it is a HUGE place!), trainers are your best bet.
You aren’t expected to cover your head unless visiting a mosque, where the covering is usually provided.
What should men wear?
Men have a little more freedom than women when it comes to the dress code. The only rule men need to follow is regarding their shoes which need to be closed toe.
What should kids wear?
Children have a lot of freedom when it comes to clothing in Dubai, and they do not follow the same rules as adults.
It is important to consider the sun when dressing your child though. It may be cooler to let them wonder around in a little amount of clothes; the sun can be very harsh so covering them up is the best idea.
Hopefully you found this post helpful and you are well prepared for your trip to Dubai or other cities within the United Arab Emirates now you know ‘what should I wear in Dubai’.
Be sure to keep an eye out for my other posts related to United Arab Emirates and other useful travel tips.