If you are planning your outfit for Abu Dhabi, it means that you are taking into account the local traditions, the weather conditions, and what is considered appropriate to wear in public. This guide on Indubaimall includes all the important information you need about dress code in Abu Dhabi for women, and it is helping you choose the right clothing. So, you look suitable and feel comfortable during your trip.
Is There a Dress Code for Women in Abu Dhabi?
The dress code in Abu Dhabi for women shows how the emirate combines its traditional values with its modern and cosmopolitan way of life. Abu Dhabi allows millions of international visitors each year to enjoy the city’s sights while they are dressing in a respectful manner, which is different from strict interpretations that may limit such visits. However, women need to respect the dress code in Abue Dhabi more than Dubai because of its cultural expectations and official laws.
Cultural expectations vs official laws
Abu Dhabi shows appreciation for different cultures while still honoring its own traditional customs. The dress code in Abu Dhabi encourages modesty when people are out in public, especially in places like government offices, shopping centers, and cultural sites. Knowing these expectations such as the question of “ Is Alcohol Legal in Abu Dhabi?” makes visitors feel more assured and comfortable during their time there. Although there are no strict rules about what to wear for tourists, it’s considerate to dress in a modest way when visiting places of worship, markets, and other public spaces. Therefore, there is no civil law dictates what tourists or residents must wear, but women should not wear clothes that show too much skin, andthey should make sure their shoulders and knees are covered.
Is Abu Dhabi stricter than Dubai?
Abu Dhabi has more strict rules than Dubai when it comes to how women should dress. Neither emirate has official laws controlling what people wear on the streets, but Abu Dhabi follows traditional values more closely in terms of conservative dress. In Abu Dhabi, it’s common to cover your shoulders and knees when you’re in malls or public places; wearing shorts or sleeveless shirts might make people look at you or ask you to leave. Dress code in Dubai is more cosmopolitan, with sleeveless tops and shorts often spotted, but it’s still best to dress modestly.
General Dress Code Rules for Women in Abu Dhabi
The dress code for women in Abu Dhabi requires that shoulders, arms, and legs be covered when in public places, though there is more flexibility when at resorts and beaches. Wearing clothes that mix comfort, style, and politeness will help you feel calm and sure of yourself during your visit to the capital of the UAE.
What is considered inappropriate clothing?
The following clothing is considered inappropriate for women in public spaces in Abu Dhabi:
- Revealing and tight clothing: Low-cut tops, spaghetti straps, sleeveless shirts, and form-fitting outfits are unacceptable .
- Short hemlines: Shorts, very short skirts, and dresses that do not cover the knees should be avoided .
- Sheer fabrics: Transparent or see-through clothing is specifically cited as inappropriate .
- Beachwear outside designated areas: Bikinis and swimsuits are strictly for pools and beaches. wearing them in malls or on the street is a major breach of etiquette
Are abayas mandatory for tourists?
What to wear in Abu Dhabi Mosque? Although abayas are not mandatory for tourists in Abu Dhabi, but the dress code at the Abu Dhabi mosque enforces the strictest rules, asking all visitors to wear full coverage no matter their gender or religion. For example, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has certain dress rules and visitors are required to wear a long abaya or robe that covers their whole body.
What Women Can Wear in Public Places?
Abu Dhabi welcomes visitors from all over the world, but it’s important to know that the city follows Islamic laws and cultural traditions which might be different from what some tourists are used to. In Abu Dhabi, there are no very strict rules about what to wear, but it’s considered polite to dress modestly, and in some areas, this is actually expected. Here is an introduction of dress code in Abu Dhabi for tourists in public places and it is for women:
Dresses, skirts, and length rules
In Abu Dhabi, dresses and skirts must cover the knees in all public areas such as malls, restaurants, and the Corniche. Mini skirts, very short hemlines, and tight or see-through fabrics are inappropriate. Maxi and loose-fitting midi dresses are ideal.
Tops, sleeves, and neckline guidelines
Casual dress code in Abu Dhabi for women such as tops must cover shoulders and upper arms in all public spaces such as sleeveless, spaghetti straps, and tank tops are inappropriate. Elbow-length or long sleeves are ideal. Necklines must be modest; low-cut, deep V-necks, or exposed cleavage are not acceptable. Avoid tight, transparent, or sheer fabrics. It is better that you carry a pashmina to cover shoulders or chest when entering conservative areas. For mosques, full arm coverage and covered necklines are legally required.
Pants, jeans, and shorts (what’s acceptable)
Pants and loose-fitting jeans are fully acceptable for women in all public settings of Abu Dhabi. Also, knee-length shorts are fine as a dress Code in Abu Dhabi for women at hotels, resorts, and tourist attractions but are inappropriate in malls, mosques, government buildings, and traditional areas. However, very short or tight shorts should be avoided entirely. Capri pants and linen trousers are good alternatives. In addition, full leg coverage is required for mosque entry.
