Wondering what to wear in Dubai? As a female traveler, I was hesitant when planning my Dubai outfits as it is a conservative, but modern country. I’m sharing my experience in Dubai to help you feel confident while packing for Dubai.
When traveling to the Middle East, knowing what to wear in a conservative country like Dubai is essential. I remember my own journey, visiting both Dubai and Egypt in the same year. I spent countless hours searching for blog posts to help me decide what to pack. The unknowns felt overwhelming, but I trusted my instincts, and I’m here to share my experience with you.
Spoiler alert: there’s really no need to stress! Dubai is a vibrant city that beautifully balances modernity with tradition. Understanding the local customs and dress codes can make your trip more enjoyable and respectful.
Let’s break down what you need to know to dress comfortably and appropriately while exploring this stunning destination. Read on for my practical tips for what to wear in Dubai as a female tourist.
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Why You Should Dress Conservatively in Dubai
First and foremost, you are a visitor in their country so it is important to be respectful. This goes for anywhere you travel, but in this case, your clothing should also respect their culture and beliefs. Basically, in any muslim country and many developing nations, they will dress conservatively and in a way that hides their skin.
Every country is different, but I like to err on the side of caution and dress modestly. Luckily, I have been in a phase of maxi and midi dresses lately so I had several things in my closet already!
Weather in Dubai Throughout the Seasons
Understanding Dubai’s weather is key to packing appropriately for your trip. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect during each season:
Winter (December to February)
Winter is one of the best times to visit Dubai. Temperatures range from the mid-60s to mid-70s °F (about 18-24 °C) during the day, making it comfortable for outdoor activities. Evenings can get a bit cooler, so a light jacket or cardigan is a good idea.
Spring (March to May)
Spring sees temperatures gradually rising, averaging between the mid-70s to low 90s °F (24-34 °C). This is still a pleasant time to visit, but it’s essential to dress in light, breathable fabrics. Sun protection becomes increasingly important as the days get warmer. I visited in April and it was very hot!
Summer (June to September)
Summer in Dubai can be intense, with temperatures often exceeding 100 °F (38 °C) and high humidity. During this season, lightweight, loose-fitting clothing is crucial. Consider packing moisture-wicking fabrics, and plan indoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. Swimwear is a must for hotel pools!
Autumn (October to November)
Autumn brings a welcome drop in temperatures, ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s °F (24-30 °C). It’s a great time for outdoor exploration, and you can start wearing more layered outfits as the weather cools down.
What to Wear in Dubai
So, here is the gist. Dubai is super modern and you really only need to be concerned when visiting old Dubai, the souks, or touring a mosque. Resorts and more touristy areas are not quite as strict and you will want to dress CHIC!
It is important to take their culture and traditions into consideration and be respectful. The best advice is to simply cover your shoulders and at least your knees as a female.
Unfortunately, it is typically extremely hot in these countries so it can be hard – I get it! As a result, I recommend lightweight materials like linen and light colors to best manage the heat. This is easy to do with maxi or midi dresses and skirts, flowy pants, light jackets, and sandals. On the plus side, covering your skin will protect you from sunburn in the extreme temps.
Personally, I visited Dubai in April which had highs of 92ºF and that’s not even their hottest month! It was also Ramadan, so this is a time when you really should be thoughtful in your outfit choices.
For men, short sleeve shirts and either pants or shorts will work fine. It is much easier as a male!
Main Rules to Follow for Women Tourists in Dubai:
- Cover shoulders and knees as a female
- Nothing too low cut
- Breathable material to be comfortable in the heat
- Crossbody purse – better for safety
- Comfortable Shoes – lots of sand so sneakers or sandals are great
- Headscarf – I never wore mine, but you may need it on a mosque tour. Although, many will provide clothing for tourists that you would be required to wear.
What People Actually Wore in Dubai
I was more stressed dressing for Dubai than I was Egypt – they are conservative but kind of modern. What do I wear in the desert? What about the beach – are swimsuits allowed?? These questions and more concerned me for weeks. Here is what people actually wore in Dubai.
What Women Wore in Dubai
I saw many “influencers” on instagram in Dubai leading up to my trip. Many were wearing short, tight, or low cut clothing so I was really confused between all the blog advice and what it would actually be like. Dubai is a fairly modern country so it seems like you can get away with that without too many people staring at you, however, I did not see anyone dressed like that. Everyone was dressed similar to me with their shoulders and knees covered, especially in old Dubai.
When exploring the desert, mosques, or the old town, you will want to dress the most modestly. However, Dubai is very modern and futuristic and you still want to wear something chic especially at the resort or for dinners! Conservative does not have to mean frumpy!
As far as the beach and pool, we were at the Four Seasons resort so keep in mind there is more flexibility in the tourist parts. I did keep it to a one piece or a high waisted bikini with a maxi cover up appropriate for beach side lunches!
What to Wear on Dubai Desert Safari
On a Dubai Desert Safari, you will want to wear loose and flowy clothing as the desert heat will be quite warm. Opt for linen and lightweight materials. Flowy pants and dresses work great for women. I personally wore a linen midi dress with sandals and was very happy with my outfit choice for exploring the Dubai Desert.
As far as shoes, it will be easier to walk through sand in sneakers, but sandals are great too. I wore sandals and it was fine. However, my activities did not require much time walking through the dunes.
It really depends on the type of experience you have booked. If you are dune bashing (which I don’t recommend because it’s bad for the environment), you can wear a workout set with leggings, sneakers, etc. If you are having a traditional bedouin meal, I would dress more conservatively out of respect for their culture.
Dubai Outfit Ideas
I like to shop at places like Anthropologie or Free People for pieces that easily work for these more conservative countries and are still cute in your everyday wardrobe. Nobody wants to buy something they won’t wear again! Here are a few items you could wear in Dubai.
Leisurely tip: pack a mini deodorant and shine wipes in your purse – it is hot and you WILL sweat!
Flowy Dresses
*click any of the images to shop!*
This is a beautiful white dress that would be great for dinners. I have it in blue!
beautiful fitted floral dress perfect for exploring old Dubai or to dress up a nice dinner.
Love this breezy dress – it is super lightweight and comes in many colorways. Would be perfect for an outfit to wear in Dubai.
Such a cute daytime dress to pair with sandals or white sneakers
I love the colors on this beautiful floral print dress. I have the same one in a blue print, but eyeing this color way too.
Next, this wrap dress is perfect for exploring a conservative country.
I love the tie strap trend on the smocked blue maxi dress. Maxi dresses are a solid choice for this trip.
On the more conservative side, this dress covers your knees and shoulders making it a good option if you are touring a mosque.
THIS dress is one of my favorites! the stripes are beautiful with the ruffled sleeves.
Can’t go wrong in white. This is perfect to wear on the plane as it is super roomy and cozy!
This would be a winner for the evenings at dinner in a conservative country. It would look amazing paired with a wedge heel.
Love this long sleeve dress to wear in a conservative country. You could pair it with a belt to give a more fitted look. Would be great with wedges for dinner or sneakers during the day.
This navy would really pop against the sandy beige colors in the Dubai desert. You would look amazing in photos! 🙂
Skirts
This would be such a cute skirt to wear out and about in Dubai.
I love this high waisted bright blue floral skirt option. It pairs easily with a white tee or cropped length shirt.
Loving this blue pleated skirts that comes in every color!
Buying this for fall – such a gorgeous pattern.
Tops and Blouses
This blouse would be so chic for a dinner in Dubai. Pair it with white high waisted trousers! (see below for an option)
The twist front shirt is the perfect tee to pair with high waisted skirts and pants
This gauzy button down blouse will be sure to keep you cool in the desert heat and doubles as a pool coverup!
This trendy sweater also makes a great coverup or perfect over dresses.
Pants and Jumpsuits
Love these white pants! Would be perfect with so many tops for dinners in Dubai or Egypt.
These billowy pants are everything – high waisted, tiered legs. I am obsessed.
Vibrant colors and feminine touches make this flowy jumpsuit ideal for a conservative country
Headscarf
This scarf is lightweight and floral print perfect to pair with white dresses.
These summer scarves go with anything. I particularly love the blue and white stripes.
Comfortable Sneakers and Sandals
*click any of the images to shop!*
