Expat Daily News: What not to Wear in Dubai

Judy Rickatson

Since the infamous “sex on the beach” case hit the headlines last year, residents of Dubai have been hotly debating the issue of appropriate dress and behaviour. Dubai promotes itself as a cosmopolitan, 5-star destination offering a liberal, western lifestyle, but visitors and new residents should be aware that this is a city which still cherishes traditional Islamic values.

Historically Dubai was a trading port and has always been hospitable to foreigners but the huge influx of tourists and expatriate workers in recent years, while an economic blessing, has caused consternation about the erosion of the local culture and sent mixed messages to newcomers.
This past year has seen several moves to clarify the situation. The government issued a Code of Conduct and articles were written in the local papers. Signs about appropriate dress and behaviour started to appear in many hotels and shopping malls and a local TV station has just announced a show called “Dubai 101” aimed at new arrivals.

Although the official code of conduct, in typical Emirati style, is a little vague, outside of the beaches and resort hotels, women should have their shoulders, cleavages and midriffs covered and skirts should be no shorter than just above the knee. For men, cropped or full-length trousers are preferred and vests or tank tops should not be worn in public places. Short shorts and skin tight or see-through clothing aren’t appropriate for either sex. On the beach, swimsuits and bikinis are fine, so long as they’re not super-skimpy thongs.

Passionate embraces are deeply offensive not just to the locals but also the many Muslim residents from other parts of the world, although married couples holding hands is tolerated. Western visitors are often surprised to see men holding hands, but this doesn’t indicate anything more than friendship.

It may be tempting to photograph the locals to send back home to friends, but here more than in other countries, you should always ask before taking a picture.

Alcohol is available to tourists and non-Muslim residents in licensed outlets but it’s illegal to drink alcohol in public, including parks and public beaches. There’s zero tolerance for drinking and driving and if you’re involved in a road accident after drinking, you’ll automatically be at fault and your insurance will be invalid.

The recent case of a British man, who was deported for making an indecent gesture while driving, was a wake-up call that insulting and abusive behaviour are frowned upon in this part of the world. Take a deep breath and count to ten.

In summary, the vast majority of visitors and residents need to modify their dress and behaviour very little when in Dubai. Its liberal acceptance of other cultures is a model for the region and a poster child for the Muslim world. Just accept the extended hand of friendship with respect.