Clothing should not indecently reveal parts of the body or display offensive images/slogans. Nudity is strictly forbidden. Swimwear is not not allowed in public places. However, it can be worn in pools and beaches.
Women tourists can wear cotton dresses, shorts, and skirts if they want to as long as they are long enough to cover the knees. T-shirts and tops can be worn by women if they're half-sleeved but tunics and sleeveless are better avoided. Men should also wear cotton jeans or trousers.
Dubai is actually very relaxed and open-minded when it comes to clothing. As the public is very international, so is the clothing. You will see people wearing all imaginable sorts of clothing in Dubai – from shorts and sleeveless t-shirts to burqas. But don't forget that it's a Muslim country and you are a guest.
You can wear shorts in Dubai and even skirts, if they are at knee length and not shorter than that. Just be mindful of the fact that there are a lot of families and children there.
(Source) It is perfectly fine for women to wear short-sleeved, sleeveless or off the shoulder tops and dresses in Dubai. However, it is ideal to wear clothes that will help blend in, so you should avoid wearing revealing clothes in specific places which might be frowned upon or considered inappropriate.
The general rule regarding dressing in public in Dubai is to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and your knees. It's best to refrain from wearing clothing that is too tight or too revealing for both men and women. It's a good idea to carry a light sweater or shawl with you when going out into public places.
Showing cleavage is somewhat frowned upon, and it's also best to avoid wearing any tops that show your underwear underneath. Instead, go for t-shirts and tops that cover your upper arms – strappy tops and those that show off your midriff are considered offensive.
What's acceptable dress in Dubai? Even in Dubai, arguably the most relaxed Emirate, for both men and women, officially, it means covering the shoulders and the knees (and everything in between).
Dubai is a country where the laws are Islamic and these laws are very sensitive in nature. Therefore watch your language before you say something. It is not necessary that what you consider fine in your country would also be fine in Dubai. So never swear in Dubai, especially in Public.
In Dubai, holding hands, hugging, and kissing in public is considered socially unacceptable and if caught indulging in such acts, you might land up in jail. Many foreigners have already suffered the consequences. Do not join the bandwagon. This is considered one of the most important things not to do in Dubai.
Can I wear leggings in Dubai? Yes, in most situations, it is OK to wear figure-hugging leggings in Dubai. We would suggest it's appropriate to wear a long top to cover your bottom in some public settings, though not essential. Many ladies wearing shorter dresses or skirts like to wear leggings underneath.
So, what can women wear in Dubai, you ask? Women can wear summer dresses, jumpsuits, skirts and tops, jeans, leggings and even shorts. Men would dress like they would anywhere else- so, men can wear shirts, t-shirts, shorts, trousers, and jeans.
Yes, you can wear a cross necklace in Dubai. People from all walks of life go to Dubai because of its international atmosphere. Due to the many different cultures and religions represented there, it is typical to see people dressed in ways that show their ethnic or religious identity.
Most public places in Dubai will accommodate decent ripped jeans. For example, you can wear them in the desert, old Dubai, public transport, and shopping malls. However, if they are extremely ripped, avoid wearing the jeans in such places. Wear such in hotels, party brunches, beach clubs, and bars.
The country has a policy against single people hooking up or prostitution so "yes and no". If you book room with your girlfriends name then yes she is allowed. If you plan to party and meet girls to bring back to your hotel then no.
Do I need to wear a face mask in Dubai (UAE)? Wearing face masks is required in some public places.
Privacy is a huge matter in the UAE, and taking pictures of people without permission is illegal. Article 378 of the UAE Penal Code (Federal Law No. 3 of 1987) states that taking a person's photo without his/her consent is an invasion of privacy, and thus punishable by law.
It does not mean that you are in trouble right away, but since you are a guest in an Islamic country, it's recommended to adapt yourself to the rules of the country. For women we do not recommend wearing very short skirts (miniskirts), short dresses and hot pants on the street.
The best rule of thumb is to be covered from your shoulder to your knees. That means no spaghetti straps, tank tops, mini skirts, or shorts. Short sleeves are okay, but it is best to wear at least 3/4 length sleeves.
Women dress code in Dubai
Wearing what you want has never been more fashionable than when visiting Dubai! Short sleeves, strapless, and off the shoulder are all acceptable styles for women to wear there.
Dress code
Women should dress modestly when in public areas like shopping malls. Clothes should cover the tops of the arms and legs, and underwear should not be visible.
Dubai is a famously cosmopolitan city, but it's important to dress modestly in public spaces out of respect for local customs by avoiding bare shoulders and midriffs.
The UAE embassy advice says: “Individuals may bring medicine into the country for their personal use. Up to three months' supply of a prescription item can be brought into the country by a visitor and 12 months' supply by a resident if they can produce a doctor's letter or a copy of the original prescription.”