Examples of public places where the dress code applies include theaters, markets, malls, supermarkets, and the public areas of hotels. When you are inside your car driving on a public roadway, the dress code still applies. You may be given an abaya to wear when you visit an official government building or courts. This is a piece of clothing that covers what you are wearing.

The general rule is that you should cover everything from your shoulders to your knees. Avoid showing cleavage, and watch clothing that is tight or see through. Women should not wear sleeveless garments. For men, this means you should not show your bare chest in public. Avoid shorts, especially short ones, and don’t wear swimwear outside of the pool or beach area. Don’t unbutton your shirt to show chest hair. Men should not show their knees, either. [1] X Research source

Pashmina shawls can be used to cover up, including in your car. [2] X Research source Capri pants will keep your legs cool but still cover up enough. A scarf is a good idea when visiting a mosque. T-shirts are fine. Spaghetti strap tops aren’t a good idea. [3] X Research source Leggings can be work under short dresses to cover the legs. Cardigans are a good choice for covering the shoulders. However, don’t wear leggings as your only pants.

Daisy Duke shorts, very short mini-skirts, tube tops, crop tops and mesh dresses can violate the dress code. Cover underwear, and keep it from public view. Under no circumstances, should your underwear be visible in public. G-strings, bras, and underwear briefs that show through clothing will violate the dress code. Lycra body dresses and very short playsuits also might get you in trouble. The same is true of clothing with see through fabric or cut outs. [4] X Research source

You might be provided with clothing you can put over your clothes, called an abaya for a woman and kandourah for men. You will be asked to remove your shoes. Women must cover the hair and entire body. Men don’t have to cover the hair but should not wear shorts or sleeveless shirts.

For women, it’s a good idea not to show cleavage or thighs, although sandals are fine. The dress code is generally looser at nightclubs or bars. Malls have signs instructing customers to cover their shoulders and knees. [5] X Research source

You can wear normal workout gear in a hotel or private gym. When running outside, wear longer shorts and a lightweight top if you are male. Women can get away with wearing running leggings as long as they go past the knee.

Don’t wear thong swim suit bottoms. Change your swimwear before you leave the pool or beach area and, say, go into a store. It’s a violation of the dress code to wear wet swimsuits under clothing if the clothing then becomes see through. Topless sunbathing is not allowed in Dubai; in fact, it’s illegal. Choosing a one-piece swimming suit is probably a good idea. At public beaches, wearing a T-shirt and shorts is a better idea. [6] X Research source

It’s best to remain calm and apologize. If possible, you could say you will go back to the hotel or home to change. The problem with getting angry or resisting this change is that the police could get involved then, and you don’t want that. You could just throw a Pashmina shawl around your shoulders and avoid a stickier situation.

Don’t hold hands, hug, or make out in public. [7] X Research source Be aware that Islamic women in Dubai might not appreciate a handshake or eye contact. A British couple was jailed for a month because they kissed each other in public. You could be arrested for offending public decency especially if the complaining person is Muslim and a citizen of the United Arab Emirates. You could be deported or end up with a month in jail. [8] X Research source