Do I need to cover up my body when Travelling to the UAE?

Do I need to cover up my body when Travelling to the UAE?

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a beautiful mix of modern city life and traditional culture. If you are planning to visit, you might wonder about the dress code. Do you need to cover up? What is considered appropriate? Let’s break it down for you in the simplest way.

Image: People gathering and mingling in Downtown Dubai

Understanding the UAE’s Culture and Dress Guidelines

The UAE is a Muslim country with traditions rooted in Islamic values. While it is very welcoming to visitors, there are certain cultural norms you will want to respect, especially when it comes to clothing. Dressing modestly is appreciated, but it is not as strict as you might think.

In public places like malls, markets, and streets, it is best to wear modest clothing. This does not mean you have to cover your entire body. However, for women, cover your shoulders and knees, avoid clothes that are too tight or revealing, and if you plan to visit a mosque or a more traditional area, bring your scarf.

For men, just stick to casual clothing like t-shirts and trousers or shorts that are knee-length or longer, and avoid going shirtless in public places.

When you are at a hotel pool or beach, swimsuits are perfectly fine. Bikinis and swimming trunks are acceptable but try not to wear thong-style swimsuits or anything too revealing. If you visit a public beach, consider wearing a cover-up when you are not swimming, especially if the beach is in a more traditional or remote area.

If you are visiting a mosque, you will need to follow even stricter rules. Women must cover their hair, arms, and legs. Some mosques, like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, provide abayas (a long robe) for visitors. Men, on the other hand, should wear long trousers and avoid sleeveless shirts.

Image: A photo of a group of men sitting together on the sand on a sunny day, enjoying a relaxing moment.

Are There Different Rules for Tourists?

The UAE is used to tourists, especially in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which are very modern and international. However, even in these cities, it is polite to follow the modest dress guidelines in public. In more traditional areas like Sharjah or smaller towns, the expectations for modesty are even higher.

If you wear something too revealing, you might get stared at or even asked to cover up by security or locals. It is not common, but it can happen. Dressing respectfully avoids these situations and shows appreciation for the local culture.

Quick Tips for Travellers and Tourists 

Here are some ideas on what to pack for your UAE trip;

• Loose T-shirts and tops that cover your shoulders
• Maxi dresses, skirts, or trousers
• Lightweight scarves for covering up when needed
• Swimsuit cover-ups for the beach
• Comfortable, breathable fabrics

Conclusion

You don’t need to fully cover up your body when travelling to the UAE, but dressing modestly is a sign of respect for the local culture. While you want to keep it comfortable and free and enjoy yourself, being mindful of traditions will go a long way.