Ultimate Guide: Can You Wear a Bikini in Dubai?

By Shelby Bonner Mar 03, 2024

Dubai is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, or UAE. Millions of tourists come to unwind for its warm oceans, clean beaches, and warm weather. However, many people still are unsure what they can wear in Dubai, and whether they can wear a bikini on Dubai beaches.

All though Dubai is a Mulsim city that follows Sha’aria, law, it is by far the most tolerant and westernized of the seven emirates that make up the UAE. More than three-quarters of Dubai’s population comes from other countries, making for a mixed, more progressive society.

Western clothing is better accepted than in other countries, but the majority of locals still practice modesty in their daily wear and their beachwear. All though you can wear a bikini in Dubai, there are several things to be aware of and consider.

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Rules

There are no formal rules in Dubai regarding clothes or bikinis. You will not be charged or brought to jail if you wear a bikini on the beach. You may, however, be judged by locals, and asked to cover up if you are wearing less modest clothes in a public setting.

Social Norms

The majority of people in Dubai are practicing Muslims, who follow modest wardrobes, including covering their shoulders, knees, and heads. On the beach, many locals wear bathing suits covering their midriff, arms, and legs.

Dos

Do feel free to wear a bikini on any beach, but consider wearing a more modest version on public beaches to show respect to the locals and their culture.

Do wear a coverup while walking to and from the beach and through your hotel in case some local families are there who are not used to seeing such revealing clothing.

Don’t

It is illegal to sunbathe topless or nude, so don’t remove your bathing suit on the beach at any given time.

Don’t sacrifice your style when trying to follow a more modest dress code. You can still bring your bikini to wear on your resort or private beach, and there are plenty of options nowadays for more modest swimsuits and streetwear.

Dress Code and Clothing Restrictions

Bikinis are allowed on private beaches, and resorts, and are tolerated on public beaches. However, on public beaches, if your bikini is revealing, you may encounter people judging, ogling, and even taking pictures of you.

In the city, you can wear less modest wear like mini skirts and shorts to tourist bars and clubs, but for the rest of the area, more modest clothes that cover your shoulders, cleavage, and knees are common practice and considered respectful.

Can you wear a bikini in Egypt? Find out here.

Travel Safety

If you are planning to travel to a cultural or religious site such as a mosque, wear a long sleeve and a long skirt, as women are not allowed to wear trousers in a mosque. A scarf or head covering is also required to enter.

Different parts of Dubai, especially ones that aren’t tourist centers may be more conservative, so dress more modestly if you plan to venture further away.

Find more travel tips here.

Style Tips

Dressing modestly for the beach and in town can seem foreign if you are not used to it. However, there are many options to be stylish, and modest.

Learn if you can wear a bikini in other places like Morocco.

Fashionable Coverup

An easy way to cover up when you aren’t on the beach is with a modest coverup that covers your shoulders and knees. It is also light to carry and quick to throw on so you don’t have to stop to change as you come and go.

Find more coverup ideas for your swimsuit here.

Sandals for Everywhere

Sandals are accepted in all parts of Dubai, from the beach to the city, to mosques. Choose a supportive pair with little or no heel that you can walk in all day. Also, consider choosing a neutral shade that will blend in with all your different outfit choices.

Check out these affordable sandals.

Light Weight Blouse

Choose a blouse made from light material such as cotton or linen to bring with you. A blouse can be worn paired with shorts or a maxi skirt or layered over a dress or shirt for additional coverage.

There are a variety of styles and fits to choose from, so make sure to bring one that covers your shoulders and cleavage and is not too tight.

Take a look at these blouse options.

Maxi Dress

A loose, lightweight maxi dress will keep you covered while keeping you cool. As long as the top covers your shoulders and cleavage, it can be worn anywhere, including a mosque. It also serves as an easy coverup for your swimsuit.

Discover these maxi dresses.

More Modest Bikini

If you still want to wear a bikini to a public beach, consider a more modest version. Consider choosing fuller-cover bottoms or swim shorts that are high-waisted to cover more of your torso. For your top, consider a sports bra style that covers more of your cleavage, or a swim top with sleeves.

Find more swimwear brands here.

One Piece

A more modest alternative to a bikini is a one-piece swimsuit. Like a bikini, you can still tan in it and swim in it. Unlike a bikini, it will bring less unwanted attention to yourself on a public beach and show more respect to the locals.

Try out a recycled swimsuit.

Light Cardigan

A lightweight cardigan is a great way to cover up for any occasion, from walking around the city to eating at a restaurant. Unlike a sweater, a cardigan is open to show off your top and can be easily tied around your waist or neck when you aren’t wearing it.

Save these cardigans.

Loose Pants

So you don’t have to worry about whether your shorts are long enough, consider a pair of loose pants. They are comfortable to walk in while still easy to style with a variety of tops.

Check out these pants.

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About the Author: Shelby Bonner

Shelby Bonner is a freelance graphic designer and writer who is passionate about fashion, and ethical, environmentally friendly fashion. She enjoys finding new brands, and following the latest styles each season.