Top Guide: Dress Code in UAE for Tourists and Residents (2025)

Visiting or moving to the UAE – whether it be the contemporary glamour of Dubai or the traditional aspects of Sharjah – constitutes both an experience with tradition and modernity. It is important to understand that the dress code in UAE for expatriates and foreigners is based upon cultural values, Islamic principles and respect for one another.
Visitors and expatriates quickly learn that there is a stark contrast between global luxury and local modesty, particularly with respect to appropriate dressing. In this guide, we are going to explain everything needed to adhere to the UAE dress code and remain fashionable.

The UAE Culture and Modesty

If you are travelling to or living within the United Arab Emirates, it’s important to understand the cultural principles that impact daily living, particularly clothing. The UAE is a modern nation that is founded on Islamic tradition and modesty is in part a reflection of the religious faith and national sentiment. Although the modesty dress code does not have to be followed by non-Muslims, it makes everything easier in terms of respect and relationships while still following the tradition. Understanding the UAE cultural customs and traditions not only will help avoid misunderstanding, but also shows a level of cultural sensitivity and appreciation for the country’s heritage.

Islamic Practices and Clothing

The UAE is an Islamic country where modesty is the fundamental cultural and religious value. This does not necessarily mean forbidding specific clothing for non-Muslim; the understanding of respect is the most important.
In general, women should cover their shoulders and knees in public and refrain from wearing clothing that is too tight or see-through. For men, they should avoid being shirtless in public places other than beaches and pools.

Respect the Customs of Emirati Culture

Wearing respectful and modest clothing is not only a legal matter but a matter of respect. Dressing appropriately is a form of politeness and is appreciated by the locals. As a reminder, many malls and public settings have signs instructing visitors to dress modestly.

General Guidance for Tourists and Residents

If you are a tourist visiting the UAE for a short holiday or for a longer term if you are a resident, dressing in a suitable manner is not only a form of good manners, it is also legally and culturally more important than that. The UAE welcomes millions of international visitors every year, and is relatively tolerant, but it is still important to respect modesty in public places.
The UAE is a mixture of tradition and modernity, and understanding this mix will help reduce discomfort and unintentional disrespect. Below are some helpful dos and don’ts to help tourists and residents dress appropriately to meet or exceed local expectations.

Do’s: What you should wear

• Cover should shoulders and knees: This is a basic rule for most public areas such as malls, government buildings, or even around the local neighborhood.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing: Baggy is great, not just because they conform to modesty standards, but is also more tolerable in the heat and humidity of the region.
• Wear breathable fabrics: Cotton and linen are common fabrics best suited for the climate and readily available in local stores.
• Carry a scarf or shawl: especially if you’re a woman who unexpectedly enters a mosque or a more conservative area.
• Dress conservatively in family-oriented locales: Public parks, traditional souks and cultural festivals generally enforce normative dress codes most strictly.
• Observe and adhere to dress codes of establishments: Almost every high-end restaurant, luxury mall, and even theme park has publicly posted dress codes at the entrance – you should follow them.

With regards to the region, not only is Dubai notably more liberal, other emirates such as Sharjah and Ajman have considerably more conservative attire standards.

Don’ts: What to Avoid Wearing

• No sheer or transparent pieces: even layered up over a bathing suit or undergarments. The pieces are public values.
• No mini-skirts and shorts: Forget it, even leave that at home too. It’s frowned upon and you’ll for sure not get in too any public places.
• Don’t Go Shirtless in Public (Men): You’re not allowed a naked torso unless you are at the beach or in a private pool, NOT a public place.
• Don’t Wear Offensive Prints or Graphics: Don’t wear something offensive like a logo, image or sacred concept that offend religion or culture printed on a garment.
• Avoid Skin-Tight Outfits: Don’t be skin-tight with leggings, bodycon dress or tank tops. When leggings and body-con have a longer top on (or dress) is good. Try them in private.
• Don’t Assume Tourist Areas Are Exempt: Even in beach resorts or tourist-heavy zones, modesty still applies when you’re outside designated leisure spots.

These all are to help so your experience in the UAE is a respectful and enjoyable occasion for you and everyone else hopefully it allows you avoid possible fines or being dismissed too from economical or public spaces.

Dress Code in Public Spaces

Public spaces such as shopping malls, government buildings, and markets require a reasonable amount of covering. For example, women in sleeveless tops or short skirts may likely be asked to change or cover up. The same applies to men wearing tank tops or very short shorts.
This expectation becomes even more important during Cultural festivals in UAE, when traditional values are celebrated, and dress codes are more strictly observed. Dressing modestly during such events shows respect for local customs and enhances your cultural experience.

Dress Code for Women in the UAE

In the UAE, women are encouraged to wear clothes in public that are not revealing as a matter of respect for local practices. Emirati women wear traditional dressed like the abaya and shayla, while expat women can choose to wear traditional dress while still covering shoulders and knees – especially in the conservative emirates. Choosing clothes that are modest and loose will help one be comfortable and culturally appropriate whether in a mall, mosque or beach resort.

Culturally Accepted Expectations

Emirati females are expected to wear the abaya and Shayla. Expatriate females are not expected to wear cultural dress. However, wearing long sleeves and long pants is encouraged – especially in more conservative emirates including Sharjah or Ajman.

Expat Attire

Expat women typically wear tunic tops, maxi dresses or wide-legged pants. A light-weight scarf can be useful if you need to cover up quickly.

Beachwear and Resort Attire

You are permitted to wear a bikini on private beaches and hotel pools, but topless sunbathing is not permitted. When moving from the beach to the hotel lobby, a dress or kaftan should always be worn if not your bathing suit.

Dress Code for Men in the UAE

Although the dress code for men in the UAE may seem less formal compared to women, there are still expectations, and protocols for dress. Typically, men are expected to be neat and modest and not to wear overly casual or revealing clothing in public. Appropriate clothing is what we should be wearing regardless of if we are at work, socializing or in a public space, and being respectful of the culture around us makes more sense. By understanding usual mistakes, and the difference between formal and casual dress, we can both enjoy the comfort of clothing while being respectful of the local culture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Men often take dress codes too lightly. Shirtless on the streets, sleeveless gym vests in public spaces, or short shorts are discouraged and at times penalized.

Office Wear Vs Casual Attire

More formal wear is expected for corporate dress codes. Men should wear suits or business shirts and trousers. Casual clothing like jeans and polos are acceptable for social events but should still be modest.

Final Thoughts; Dressing Respectfully in UAE

Engaging with the UAE as a tourist or resident and adhering to the dress codes, is a fundamental way to contribute positively to the UAE culture and community. The UAE is a modern, vibrant and welcoming nation, particularly in cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, yet there are aspects of Islamic culture that underline modesty, especially in families and for public display. In wearing appropriate and respectful clothing, you can avoid negative repercussions, such as legal, tourist or social issues, while showing appreciation for the UAE culture.
It is always best to adopt a respectful and modest demeanor when enjoying a resort, working in a corporate office, visiting a mosque or when shopping in a local souk. By being prepared and aware, tourists and residents will be able to reasonably anticipate the expectations concerning dress and appearance, while enjoying what the UAE has to offer each day.
To explore more about the UAE and Life in the UAE – including issues such as dress code, local laws, etiquette and tips for daily living and exploring, check out WikiHow – it has all the articles and resources to provide comprehensive, step-by-step documentation on navigating life in the UAE; confidently, respectfully and easily. Take not just read, be prepared with practical advice from experts in the UAE.

FAQs

1. Can tourists wear shorts in the UAE?

Yes, tourists can wear shorts, but they should be knee-length, especially in public places like malls and markets. Short shorts are generally discouraged.

2. Do women have to wear an abaya in the UAE?

No, expat and tourist women are not required to wear an abaya. However, modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is recommended, particularly in more conservative emirates.

3. Is beachwear allowed outside of the beach?

No, beachwear such as bikinis or swim trunks should only be worn at designated beaches or pools. Always cover up when leaving those areas.

4. What should I wear when visiting a mosque in the UAE?

Women must cover their hair, arms and legs, while men should wear long trousers and sleeves. Many mosques offer appropriate attire for visitors at the entrance.