Can You Wear a Bikini in Qatar? Helpful Tips

By Shelby Bonner Sep 29, 2023

Qatar is a beautiful country in the Middle East, bordering the Persian Gulf on one side and Saudi Arabia on the other side. Qatar is a popular tourist destination, with the country hosting the 2022 World Cup.

Most citizens of Qatar are practicing Muslim. Their outfits are modest and more conservative to reflect their specific customs and culture. Their culture affects all aspects of their lives including day wear and beach wear.

When you are traveling to Qatar, you may wonder whether you can wear a bikini or not. You can in fact wear a bikini but only at certain places and under certain circumstances.

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What Are the Rules?

There are no specific rules or laws telling the people of Qatar what they can and can’t wear. However, their culture adopts a modest look, including when visiting the beach.

Bikinis are not seen being worn at public beaches. Instead, women wear swimsuits that cover their legs to at least their knees and cover their shoulders and cleavage, as well as a hijab meant for the water. Men also wear swimsuits that go to their knees and wear a shirt that covers their torso and shoulders.

Learn if you can wear a bikini in other countries.

What To Do

Enjoy the many lovely beaches and calm water when you are in Qatar.

Do wear a bikini in a private pool, your private room, or on your private hotel’s beach. Wear loose and modest clothes over your bikini once you leave the water. Choose breathable fabrics like cotton and linen that will provide coverage without overheating you.

Do bring a scarf even though you aren’t expected to wear it, it is still useful to protect your face from the sun and sand, as well as add coverage from areas your outfit does not.

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What Not To Do

Do not wear tight, form-fitting clothes over your bikini or clothing that shows too much skin like short shorts and tank tops, as you will bring unwanted attention to yourself and disrespect Qatar’s culture.

Try to avoid wearing white clothes or light-colored clothes as the sand will easily stain them. Pack dark colors and neutral colors instead.

Find more bikini alternatives here.

Is There A Dress Code to Follow?

There is no universal or official dress code. Since the majority of Qatar is Muslim, clothes that are too tight or too revealing are not generally worn. Your clothes and swimsuit should cover your shoulders and cleavage, and go to at least your knees.

Learn what to wear when visiting Lebanon.

Are There Clothing Restrictions?

Bikinis are restricted to private pools and resorts. Out of the water and on public beaches, modest, loose-fitting clothes are expected.

When in doubt, wear more instead of less and bring layers in case you need to cover up more and protect yourself from the sun and changing weather.

Learn if you can wear a bikini in India here.

Travel Safety Tips

Qatar is a relatively safe country, and if you do wear more revealing clothes, you will not be arrested or harmed. However, to not stand out and respect Qatar and its people, dress modestly at any public beach and anywhere else you are planning on going.

Wear plenty of sunscreen when outside, especially when swimming. Qatar is very sunny and hot and the possibility of getting sunburned is highly likely.

Find more travel tips here.

Outfit Ideas

All though you can’t wear a bikini, there are plenty of other options you can wear to the beach that will keep you cool and comfortable.

Find more beach outfit ideas here.

Long Kimono

A long kimono is an easy option to throw over your bikini or swimsuit when you are not in the pool. It provides enough coverage that it can be worn in the hotel lobby or beach, while still being light and breathable so you don’t overheat.

Find more coverup ideas here.

Knee Length Shorts

Shorts are great to wear on their own or to wear over a swimsuit. If you are wearing them in water, make sure they are made from microfiber material that will dry quickly and not absorb a lot of water where you feel weighed down.

Try out these organic cotton shorts.

T-Shirt

A T-shirt is an accessible, easy option to wear over your swimsuit to fit the modesty standards of Qatar. Make sure it is not so tight that it could be called form fitting and not so loose that it is getting in your way.

Stay cool in these shirts made from hemp.

Sun Hat

Qatar is hot and sunny, and protecting your face is essential. In addition to sunscreen, a large hat provides sun protection and shade and will help keep you cool.

Find more hats and sun hats here.

Sunglasses

Protect your eyes on the beach from the sun and its glare with a pair of sunglasses. Go for a sporty look or a classic pair of aviators to elevate your look.

Check out these sustainable sunglasses.

Sandals

Your feet do not need to be covered in Qatar and sandals are a practical option to wear on the beach and in the water. Go for a pair of flip-flops or something that offers a bit more support.

Try a pair of vegan sandals.

Head Scarf

Having a head scarf with you is a good idea in case you need to cover up a part of yourself to be more modest. It can also be used to help protect you from the sun and heat and is a great way to accessorize and add color and personality.

Find more scarves here.

Maxi Dress

A maxi dress is a great option to wear over your swimsuit or in general. It is easy to put on and take off and it is modest enough to be respectful of local customs. Make sure your dress isn’t too tight or too low that it shows off your cleavage.

Check out these affordable maxi dresses.

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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.