Dubai Packing Guide: What to Wear in Dubai for Female Travelers

By Indah

May 04, 2025

In Travel Fashion

0

Planning a trip to Dubai? Exciting! But figuring out what to wear in Dubai as a female tourist can be a little tricky. Dubai is a fascinating blend of modern and traditional, and understanding the local customs is key to having a respectful and enjoyable visit. This comprehensive guide will break down the essentials, offering practical advice and stylish outfit ideas to ensure you're comfortable, confident, and culturally appropriate during your Dubai adventure. We'll cover everything from daytime exploring to evening glamour, helping you pack the perfect suitcase.

Understanding Dubai's Dress Code: Respect and Comfort

Before diving into specific outfit suggestions, it's important to understand the general guidelines for dressing in Dubai. While Dubai is a relatively liberal city, especially compared to some other parts of the Middle East, modesty is still valued, particularly in religious sites and more traditional areas. The key is to find a balance between respecting local customs and staying comfortable in the desert heat. Remember, you're a guest, and dressing respectfully shows consideration for the local culture.

• General Guidelines: Avoid overly revealing clothing such as very short shorts, mini skirts, and low-cut tops. Opt for clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites like mosques.
• Public Beaches & Pools: Swimwear is perfectly acceptable at beaches and pools within hotels and resorts. However, when walking to and from these areas, it's best to cover up with a sarong, kaftan, or a light dress.
• Shopping Malls: Malls are generally relaxed, but it's still advisable to dress modestly. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Lightweight pants, skirts, or dresses are all good choices.
• Religious Sites: When visiting mosques or other religious sites, you'll need to dress very modestly. This usually means covering your head, shoulders, and knees. Many mosques provide abayas (long, loose-fitting robes) for visitors to wear.

Essential Clothing Items: Building Your Dubai Wardrobe

Now that we've covered the general guidelines, let's talk about specific clothing items that should be on your packing list. Consider the time of year you're traveling, as Dubai experiences very hot summers and milder winters. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are essential.

• Lightweight Dresses and Skirts: Flowy dresses and skirts made from fabrics like cotton, linen, or rayon are perfect for the Dubai heat. Opt for midi or maxi lengths for modesty.
• Loose-Fitting Pants: Linen pants, palazzo pants, or wide-leg trousers are stylish and comfortable options that provide good coverage.
• Tops with Sleeves: Pack a variety of tops with sleeves, such as t-shirts, blouses, and tunics. Avoid sleeveless tops or tank tops unless you plan to wear them with a cardigan or shawl.
• Cardigan or Shawl: A lightweight cardigan or shawl is essential for covering your shoulders when needed, especially when visiting religious sites or entering air-conditioned spaces.
• Swimwear: If you plan on spending time at the beach or pool, pack your favorite swimsuit. Remember to bring a cover-up for walking to and from these areas.
• Comfortable Shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking, so pack comfortable shoes such as sandals, sneakers, or walking shoes. Avoid wearing very high heels during the day.

Accessorizing Your Outfits: Adding Style and Functionality

Accessories are a great way to add personality to your outfits while also providing practical benefits. Here are some essential accessories to pack for your Dubai trip:

• Sunglasses: The Dubai sun is intense, so sunglasses are a must-have for protecting your eyes.
• Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the harsh sun with a high-SPF sunscreen.
• Hat or Scarf: A wide-brimmed hat or scarf can provide extra protection from the sun and can also be used to cover your head when visiting religious sites.
• Crossbody Bag: A crossbody bag is a practical and secure way to carry your belongings while exploring the city.
• Jewelry: Keep jewelry simple and minimal. Avoid wearing expensive or flashy pieces that could attract unwanted attention.

Outfit Ideas: From Daytime Adventures to Evening Glamour

Let's put it all together with some specific outfit ideas for different occasions:

• Exploring Old Dubai: A midi dress with a lightweight cardigan, comfortable sandals, and a crossbody bag is a perfect outfit for exploring the historic neighborhoods of Dubai. Add a hat for sun protection.
• Visiting the Burj Khalifa: Opt for a stylish but modest outfit such as linen pants, a blouse with sleeves, and comfortable wedges. A shawl can be added for extra coverage if needed.
• Desert Safari: Wear loose-fitting pants or a maxi skirt with a t-shirt or tunic. Comfortable closed-toe shoes are recommended for walking in the sand. Don't forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.
• Shopping at the Dubai Mall: A midi skirt with a blouse, comfortable sandals or sneakers, and a crossbody bag is a great choice for a day of shopping.
• Evening Dinner: For a more formal dinner, you can wear a dress or a skirt and top. Heels are optional, but keep them comfortable. Consider bringing a light jacket or shawl in case the restaurant is air-conditioned.

Respectful Dressing in Religious Sites: A Detailed Guide

Visiting mosques and other religious sites is a must-do when in Dubai, but it's essential to dress appropriately. Here's a detailed guide:

• Cover Your Head: Women are required to cover their heads when entering a mosque. You can bring your own scarf or use one provided by the mosque. Make sure your hair is completely covered.
• Cover Your Shoulders and Arms: Wear clothing with sleeves that cover your shoulders and arms. Avoid sleeveless tops or tank tops.
• Cover Your Knees: Wear pants, skirts, or dresses that cover your knees. Avoid shorts or mini skirts.
• Loose-Fitting Clothing: Wear loose-fitting clothing that doesn't cling to your body. Avoid tight or revealing clothing.
• Remove Your Shoes: You'll need to remove your shoes before entering the prayer area of the mosque. Some mosques provide shoe racks or bags for you to carry your shoes.

Staying Cool and Comfortable: Beating the Dubai Heat

Dubai's climate can be challenging, especially during the summer months. Here are some tips for staying cool and comfortable:

• Choose Lightweight Fabrics: Opt for clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, and rayon.
• Wear Light Colors: Light colors reflect heat better than dark colors.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
• Seek Shade: Take breaks in the shade whenever possible.
• Use Air Conditioning: Take advantage of air-conditioned spaces such as malls, restaurants, and museums.

What Not to Wear in Dubai: Avoiding Fashion Faux Pas

To ensure a respectful and comfortable trip, here's a list of clothing items to avoid wearing in Dubai:

• Very Short Shorts or Mini Skirts: These are considered too revealing for public places.
• Low-Cut Tops: Avoid tops that expose too much cleavage.
• Sleeveless Tops or Tank Tops: These are generally not appropriate for public places unless you're wearing a cardigan or shawl.
• Tight or Revealing Clothing: Avoid clothing that clings to your body or is see-through.
• Clothing with Offensive Graphics or Slogans: Avoid wearing clothing with graphics or slogans that could be considered offensive or disrespectful.

Finding Modest Fashion in Dubai: Shopping for Local Styles

If you're looking to purchase modest clothing while in Dubai, you'll find plenty of options in the local markets and shopping malls. Look for traditional Emirati clothing such as abayas, jalabiyas, and kaftans. These garments are often beautifully designed and can be a unique souvenir of your trip. You can also find a wide selection of modest dresses, skirts, and tops in the department stores and boutiques.

Packing Checklist: Ensuring You Have Everything You Need

To make sure you don't forget anything, here's a handy packing checklist:

• [ ] Lightweight dresses and skirts
• [ ] Loose-fitting pants
• [ ] Tops with sleeves
• [ ] Cardigan or shawl
• [ ] Swimwear
• [ ] Comfortable shoes
• [ ] Sunglasses
• [ ] Sunscreen
• [ ] Hat or scarf
• [ ] Crossbody bag
• [ ] Adapter for electronic devices
• [ ] Any necessary medications

Conclusion: Dressing with Confidence and Respect in Dubai

What to wear in Dubai as a female tourist is all about finding a balance between respecting local customs and staying comfortable. By following these guidelines and packing appropriately, you can enjoy your trip to Dubai with confidence and peace of mind. Remember to be mindful of the local culture, dress modestly in public places, and most importantly, have fun exploring this amazing city! Now that you are equipped with the right knowledge, get packing and experience the magic of Dubai!