Dressing in Dubai is something you need to pay attention to if you’re planning a trip to this city. Glittering skyscrapers and golden beaches aren’t everything – Dubai has its own rules, including those related to clothing. As a tourist, you might feel a bit lost: is a bikini okay on the beach? Do you need to cover your hair? How should you dress while exploring Dubai? Learn how to respect local culture, feel comfortable, and look stylish!
Why are dress code rules in Dubai important?
Dubai is a unique blend of tradition and modernity. As part of the United Arab Emirates, the city is deeply rooted in Muslim culture, which influences daily customs, including the dress code. While Dubai is more liberal than other emirates like Sharjah or Abu Dhabi, respecting local rules is crucial. Why?
First, it’s a sign of courtesy toward residents. Second, inappropriate attire can lead to a warning – sometimes from a passerby, sometimes from plainclothes police in shopping malls. In extreme cases, such as in sacred places, breaking the rules could result in a fine.
But don’t worry! Dubai is accustomed to tourists (over 13 million visited in 2022!), and in many places, like the tourist districts of Dubai Marina or Downtown, the rules are somewhat relaxed. The key is understanding where and how to dress.
Dress code rules in different places in Dubai
Dubai is a city of contrasts, where you might visit a luxury shopping mall in the morning and a mosque in the afternoon. Each place has different expectations regarding attire.
Public places – streets, shopping malls, transportation
In public places like streets, bus stops, and shopping malls, modesty is the rule. Both women and men should cover their shoulders and knees. Midi dresses or skirts, short-sleeve blouses, lightweight pants, and T-shirts are safe choices. In Dubai Mall or Mall of the Emirates, you’ll find signs reminding you of the dress code, and overly revealing outfits (e.g., short shorts or crop tops) may result in a request to leave the mall.
Tip
Always carry a scarf or lightweight jacket – it’s a perfect solution if you suddenly find yourself in a more conservative setting.
Public and hotel beaches
Dreaming of a swim in the Persian Gulf? On public beaches like Jumeirah Beach, bikinis and swim trunks are allowed, but in moderation. Choose a one-piece swimsuit or tankini for women, and for men, shorts reaching mid-thigh. Topless is strictly prohibited, as are overly skimpy outfits. At hotel beaches and resorts, the rules are more relaxed, but it’s still worth maintaining class.
Tip
After leaving the beach, put on a T-shirt or tunic – walking around the city in a swimsuit is a faux pas.
Mosques and sacred places
Visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque or Jumeirah Mosque is a must during your Dubai trip, but it requires appropriate attire. Women must cover their hair (a lightweight scarf is enough), shoulders, and legs – long pants or skirts and long-sleeve blouses are ideal. Men should wear long pants and shirts covering their shoulders. Many mosques offer abayas (for women) and dishdashas (for men) to borrow, but it’s better to come prepared.
Tip
Pack a scarf or shawl in your car – it’ll come in handy if you spontaneously decide to visit a sacred place.
Restaurants and hotels
In upscale restaurants and hotels, such as those in Burj Al Arab, elegant attire is expected, e.g., a cocktail dress for women or a shirt and pants for men. In resorts and hotel bars, you can be more casual, but avoid beachwear outside the pool area.
How to dress in Dubai as a woman?
Women often wonder how to dress in Dubai to feel at ease while respecting local customs. Good news? You don’t need to cover your hair in public places, as some myths suggest. Simply opt for modest yet stylish outfits. Maxi dresses, linen pants, sleeved blouses, or tunics are great choices. In summer, when temperatures hit 40°C, choose breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. In winter (15-26°C), a lightweight jacket or cardigan works well.
For mosque visits, pack a scarf to loosely cover your head. In heavily air-conditioned malls, a shawl or sweater will keep you comfortable. And at the beach? A one-piece bikini or tankini is a safe bet, but after leaving the water, put on a tunic or pareo.
How to dress in Dubai as a man?
Men have it slightly easier in Dubai, but rules apply to them too. In public places, go for short-sleeve T-shirts, knee-length shorts, or lightweight pants. Tank tops and very short shorts are best left for the beach. At public beaches, swim trunks or mid-thigh swim shorts are fine, but avoid overly tight styles. In mosques, long pants and a sleeved shirt are the minimum.
On hot days, choose light, breathable clothing, and in air-conditioned malls, a lightweight shirt is useful. If you’re exploring Dubai by car, comfortable pants and a T-shirt ensure comfort during long drives. A hat or cap is a must to protect against the sun.
How to dress during Ramadan?
Ramadan in 2025 has already passed, and in 2026, it falls from February 17 to March 19. During this time, Dubai becomes more conservative. While dress code rules don’t formally change, out of respect for local culture, it’s worth choosing more covered outfits. Women can opt for longer dresses or pants with a tunic, and men for long-sleeve shirts and pants. Avoid sheer or tight clothing, especially in public places.
Ramadan is a time of reflection, so locals will appreciate your effort to adapt to their customs. If you’re exploring by car, keep a scarf or extra shirt in the vehicle for spontaneous visits to more traditional areas.
How to pack for Dubai?
Packing for Dubai is an art of combining comfort, style, and respect for the culture. Here’s what to bring:
- Women – midi/maxi dresses, linen pants, sleeved blouses, headscarf, one-piece bikini, beach tunic, lightweight cardigan.
- Men – t-shirts, knee-length shorts, lightweight pants, long-sleeve shirt, swim trunks, hat.
- For everyone – sunscreen (SPF 50+), sunglasses, comfortable shoes (sandals for the beach, sneakers for sightseeing).
- Winter – lightweight jacket or sweater for evenings and air-conditioned spaces.
- Summer – breathable clothing made of natural fabrics, sun hat.
Dressing for exploring Dubai by car
Exploring Dubai by rental car offers maximum freedom – from desert dunes to gleaming skyscrapers. But how do you dress for comfort while driving? Choose breathable T-shirts, comfortable pants, or midi dresses that don’t restrict movement. Keep a scarf or lightweight shirt in the car – you can quickly throw them on if you stop at a place requiring modest attire, like a mosque or traditional souk.
Car rental gives you flexibility, but adjust your outfit to your daily plans. For a desert safari, loose clothing and a hat will protect you from the sun. In an air-conditioned car, a sweater is handy due to significant temperature differences. Check out our Dubai car rental offers and explore the city in comfortable style!
Common tourist mistakes and how to avoid them
Tourists sometimes make mistakes that can cause trouble. Here’s what to avoid:
- Overly revealing outfits – short shorts, crop tops, or sheer clothing in public places are a bad idea.
- Walking around the city in a bikini – keep swimwear for the beach or pool.
- Ignoring mosque rules – lack of a headscarf or improper attire may lead to denied entry.
- Inappropriate attire during Ramadan – overly casual outfits may be seen as disrespectful.
- If someone points out an issue, stay calm and apologize – Dubai residents are friendly but value their culture. Always carry something to cover your shoulders or knees to avoid awkward situations.
How to dress in Dubai?
Dubai is a city that captivates at every turn, but respecting local dress code rules will make your trip even more enjoyable. Cover your shoulders and knees in public places, choose modest attire for mosques, and enjoy freedom at the beach – in moderation. When packing, opt for breathable clothing suitable for both the heat and air-conditioned malls. If you’re exploring by car, a comfortable outfit and a small bag with a scarf or shirt are the recipe for a great adventure.
Ready to discover Dubai? Rent a car from our rental service and explore the city in comfort, respecting its culture. Have a great trip!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you wear a bikini in Dubai?
Bikinis are allowed on public and hotel beaches, but choose one-piece or tankini styles. Topless is prohibited.
Do women need to cover their hair in Dubai?
Hair covering is required only in mosques. In public places, modest attire covering shoulders and knees is sufficient.
What clothes to pack for Dubai in summer?
In summer (June-August), temperatures reach 40°C, so pack breathable linen or cotton clothing, a hat, and SPF 50+ sunscreen.
Are short shorts allowed for men?
Yes, but only knee-length shorts in public places. Shorter swim trunks are fine at the beach.
