Posted by Dubai is one of the most visited destinations in the world – modern, international, and very tourist-friendly. But many travelers are unsure about what to wear. Do you need to dress modestly? Are shorts allowed? What about swimwear on public beaches?
This complete 2026 clothing guide explains everything in simple English: what is allowed, what is recommended, and where dress codes are stricter. Internal links to related articles are included.
Do You Need Special Clothing in Dubai?
In most everyday situations: No. Dubai is one of the most liberal cities in the Middle East. Tourists from Europe and the US can dress normally.
However, there are different dress code rules depending on the location:
- hotels and resorts → very relaxed
- shopping malls → normal casual clothing
- mosques → strict dress code
- beaches → swimwear allowed
- Old Dubai (souks) → slightly more conservative
Understanding these differences will help you feel comfortable everywhere.
General Clothing Rules for Tourists
Dubai does not require tourists to dress in traditional or conservative clothing. However, the government encourages respectful and modest appearance in public areas.
Basic rules:
- Cover shoulders in conservative areas
- Avoid extremely short shorts
- No transparent or see-through clothing in public
- Swimwear only at beaches and pools
You will see many people wearing shorts, T-shirts, dresses, and tank tops in tourist zones.
What Women Can Wear in Dubai
Women can dress freely in most places. The only exceptions are mosques and official government buildings.
Allowed in public places
- summer dresses
- T-shirts and tops
- jeans, trousers, skirts
- shorts (moderate length)
- sportswear
Recommended
- light fabrics (linen, cotton)
- sun hat and sunglasses
- scarf for entering conservative areas
Avoid
- see-through clothing
- very short hotpants in malls
- tops that reveal too much cleavage
Women who prefer modest clothing can wear long dresses or abaya-style outfits, but this is not required.
What Men Can Wear in Dubai
Allowed everywhere
- T-shirts and polo shirts
- shorts (knee-length preferred)
- light trousers or chinos
- linen shirts
Avoid
- shirtless walking in public
- swim shorts outside beaches
- tank tops in mosques
In resorts or beach clubs, men can wear almost anything acceptable in Western countries.
Beach & Pool Clothing in Dubai
Dubai has beautiful public and private beaches. Swimwear is allowed at:
- hotel pools
- private beach clubs
- public beaches such as JBR Beach
Allowed swimwear
- bikinis
- one-piece swimsuits
- swim shorts
- UV shirts and rashguards
Not allowed
- topless sunbathing (strictly prohibited)
- overly revealing thongs or micro-bikinis
After leaving the beach, always cover up with a shirt, dress, or cover-up.
Clothing in Shopping Malls
Shopping malls in Dubai are air-conditioned and follow a “family-friendly” dress code. This means:
- shorts and skirts are fine
- shoulders do not always need to be covered
- avoid extremely revealing outfits
You will see people from all over the world wearing casual clothing — from Western fashion to traditional attire.
Clothing in Mosques in Dubai
Mosques have strict dress rules. At the :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} or other open mosques, clothing must follow Islamic tradition.
Women must wear:
- long sleeves
- long trousers or long skirt
- headscarf
Men must wear:
- long trousers
- shirt with sleeves (short sleeves OK)
Visitor centers often lend traditional clothing for free if your outfit does not meet the rules.
Old Dubai (Souks) – More Conservative Areas
Old Dubai is more traditional than Downtown or the Marina. It is recommended to dress modestly:
- covered shoulders
- skirts or shorts to the knee
- no transparent clothing
This is not mandatory, but it is respectful.
What to Wear in Dubai During Summer
Dubai summer temperatures can reach 40–45°C. Choose lightweight and breathable materials:
- linen shirts
- cotton T-shirts
- loose dresses
- UV clothing for children
Indoors, air-conditioning can be cold. Bring a light jacket or scarf.
What to Wear in Dubai During Winter
Winter (November–March) is warm with cool evenings. Bring:
- light sweaters
- long trousers
- comfortable shoes for sightseeing
Outdoor evenings at the Marina or desert can be chilly.
Clothing for Desert Safaris
For desert tours like those offered on :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}, wear:
- light shirt or T-shirt
- long trousers or capris
- closed shoes for sand
- hat and sunglasses
A jacket is useful in winter evenings.
Clothing for Nightlife in Dubai
Bars and nightclubs — especially in hotels — have specific dress codes.
Men:
- long trousers
- collared shirt or smart T-shirt
- closed shoes
Women:
- stylish dresses
- heels or elegant sandals
Sportswear or beachwear is not allowed in nightlife venues.
What Not to Wear in Dubai
- transparent clothing
- extremely short shorts in malls
- tops showing too much cleavage
- swimwear away from beaches or pools
- offensive slogans or images on T-shirts
You will not get arrested for clothing, but you may be asked to dress more appropriately.
Internal Links to Related Dubai Guides
Summary: Clothing in Dubai for Tourists
Dubai is very open and modern. Tourists can dress normally, just avoiding extreme or overly revealing outfits in public. Swimwear is allowed only at beaches and pools, while mosques require traditional covered clothing. With a bit of respect for local culture, tourists feel comfortable everywhere in Dubai.