Can You Wear A Bikini In Dubai? Plus What To Wear Everywhere Else
Wondering if you can wear a bikini in Dubai?
I’ve been visiting Dubai since 2011, and this is one of the most common questions I get, especially from women planning their first trip. The answer is simple. Yes, you can wear a bikini in Dubai.
But there are a few important rules to know depending on where you are.
This guide will explain exactly where you can wear a bikini and what to wear in other places, like malls, souks, nightclubs, and desert safaris. I’ll also answer the most common questions women have when it comes to dressing in Dubai.
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Can You Wear A Bikini In Dubai?
Yes, you can wear a bikini or a one-piece swimsuit in Dubai, but only in certain places. Dubai is the most tolerant Emirate in the UAE, and with millions of tourists visiting each year, bikinis are normal at beaches, hotel pools, and waterparks.
That said, Dubai still respects its Muslim culture, so it’s important to know where bikinis are okay and where they aren’t.
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Where can you wear a bikini in Dubai?
✅ Allowed:
- Hotel pools
- Private hotel beaches
- Public beaches like JBR Beach
- Waterparks like Aquaventure or Wild Wadi
- Pool parties at licensed hotels
Bikinis of all types are fine, even thong bikinis are more common these days, especially at public beaches. On my recent visit to JBR Beach, I saw several women wearing thong bikinis, and no one seemed to care.
Tip: At waterparks, pick a swimsuit that stays in place. Some slides are fast, and you don’t want any wardrobe malfunctions.
Where you can’t wear a bikini in Dubai
Even if you’re at the beach or pool, you need to cover up before entering a hotel lobby, restaurant, or shopping area. It’s not allowed to walk around in just a bikini or swimwear away from the pool or beach.
This includes:
- Streets and public transport
- Malls and restaurants
- Hotel indoor areas (lobby, lifts, cafés)
You’ll even see signs in malls saying swimwear, short shorts, and crop tops are not allowed.
What about sunbathing topless?
This one’s easy: No.
Topless sunbathing is not allowed in Dubai, not on the beach, not by the pool, nowhere. It can get you fined or even arrested. Just don’t do it.
What to wear in Dubai’s nightclubs
Dubai’s nightclubs are stylish, and the dress code is smart casual. Think:
- Sexy dresses or skirts for women
- No flip-flops or beachwear
- No ripped jeans or sneakers for men
When I first went clubbing in Dubai, I wore a knee-length dress and felt a bit overdressed. Most women were wearing very short and stylish dresses. So if you like dressing up, you’ll fit right in.
For your imagination, you can see some pictures from the Armani club here.
What to wear in malls, souks & public areas
In general, Dubai is very relaxed about what you wear, but it’s always good to be respectful, especially in more traditional areas.
✅ What’s OK:
- Shorts and sleeveless tops in the streets
- Skirts and summer dresses
- Jeans and t-shirts
- Sandals
❌ What to avoid in malls and souks:
- Very short shorts or skirts
- Crop tops
- Transparent clothing
My tip: The air conditioning is freezing inside buildings. I always carry a cardigan or light sweater with me.
If you’re visiting the souks in Old Dubai, I recommend dressing a bit more conservatively, skirts below the knees, and something that covers your shoulders. It’s similar to what you’d wear in Egypt’s markets.
During the holy month of Ramadan, you should pay a little more attention to what you wear on the streets to be more respectful of the Emirati culture and religion.
What to wear on a desert safari
Dress according to the weather. Desert safaris are casual and fun, but it gets hot during the day and cool in the evening.
- Light, breathable clothing (cotton or linen)
- Closed shoes or flip-flops
- Bring a sweater for the evening during winter months
Avoid tight clothes or anything too short, especially if you’ll be doing quad biking or sandboarding.
What to wear when visiting mosques
If you plan to visit a mosque, like the beautiful Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi or Jumeirah Mosque in Dubai, you’ll need to follow a strict dress code.
For women:
- Long skirt or loose trousers (ankle length)
- Long-sleeved top
- A scarf to cover your hair
Many mosques used to lend abayas and scarves to women, but now you may have to buy one if you’re not fully covered.
For men:
- Long trousers
- Shirt with sleeves (no tank tops)
If you are staying in Dubai, you can book a tour that will take you from Dubai to Abu Dhabi and back.
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Dress Code In Dubai: FAQs
Here you have it. All you need to know about wearing bikinis in Dubai and the dress code in public places. Here are some more questions you may have.
Do women have to wear a hijab in Dubai?
No. You only need to cover your hair when visiting a mosque.
Can I wear ripped jeans in Dubai?
Yes, ripped jeans are fine in most places.
Can you wear a bikini in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, same as in Dubai, bikinis are allowed on the beach or at the pool.
Can you wear shorts in Dubai?
Yes, but avoid very short ones, especially in malls or public indoor places.
Want more Dubai travel tips? Join my free Facebook group, I Love To Visit Dubai. I’d love to see you there!
You may want to check:
Can You Visit The Infinity Pools In Dubai?
When Is The Worst Time To Visit Dubai? (From A Frequent Visitor)
Can A Woman Travel Solo To Dubai? Yes, Here’s How!
When planning your trip, use my recommended travel resources
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➡️Find accommodation with Booking or Expedia
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➡️Find the cheapest flights with WayAway flight aggregator
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