Dress Code in Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Doha?

Question

As non-Muslims that reside in these areas (short or long term) are there any dress codes that we have to abide with?

Myself, I'm basically going over for business and maybe some leisure to go along with it along with some mates at work along with a guide who will translate for me.

I know for women, it's slightly more restrictive but not too alarming for many people.  I know it's no cut off shorts, spaghetti straps, low cut tops and no mid-riff baring.  But is it OK for the ladies to wear her skirt or dress (knee length) and high heels out in public in those areas (bare legs or if she chooses tights, pantyhose or stockings)?

For short-term stays, as non-Muslims if we we're to have alcohol say at a restaurant or in our abode; do we need to apply for a permit at the airport or anywhere in particular?  This also applies for us if we we're to go to a store to purchase pork products (where offered), which I know we need permits to do so.

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

In Abu Dhabi and Dubai there is no dress code. But if you do not want to stand out too much then dont wear revealing clothes eg. mini skirts, singlets. You wont get fined for it but you might feel uncomfortable. But dont worry, they are very popular tourist places and the people who live there know that you are not from their country and so will not bother you about it. And yes, you can wear knee length dresses and high heels. Its perfectly fine. Most hotels allow alcohol without a permit

Prudence · Answer

I wouldn't recommend driving at all.. The road is too long and boring and crossing the Saudi boarder is just not worth it if you don't have a visa.. I haven't heard of ferries or boats between Dubai and Doha.. but you can find very nice deals on trips between Doha and Dubai!! Try These airlines and I'm sure you'll find good flights Gulf Air Emirates Airlines Ettihad Airlines Qatar Airways

? · Answer

Dress code is very simple: beach wear at the beach/pool only and otherwise just "normal" In Malls bare shoulders, shorts and super minis are not welcome. Otherwise ladies are free to wear what ever they want.

Alcohol can be consumed in leicensed restaurants which mostly will be located in 5 star hotels. Also when the rules say that also tourists need a liquor leicense, I don't know how this is suppose to work because to receive the same a residence visa is required. But - as long as you stay out of trouble and don't fall around being drunk in public, nobody ever will ask for any liquor license. 
Alcohol for sale is offered in Duty Free without providing leicense, otherwise in African Eastern stores where some brances require leisence and others don't.
Pork items are available at Abela's and Spinney's and can't be purchased by everybody. No special permit needed.

Btw: when going out, no translator needed. Everybody talks english:)
Enjoy your stays!

Ann Karen Campoamor · Answer

there's no dress code for dubai and abu dhabi just don't wear very short shorts and see through dress that your underwear can be seen.

you can buy pork at spinneys without a permit, about the alcohol i don't know where you can get the permit because i don't have it.

Anonymous · Answer

There is no dress code, but dressing like a $lut is frowned upon in societies where Muslims are predominant and tolerant of anyone wishing to enter. So respect their policies, they don't go outside every day to see $lutty clothing.

Saudi Arabia has a harsh dress code and harsh laws, don't let non-Muslim women enter.

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Dress Code in Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Doha?

5 Answers