Recently, a new campaign by a young Emirati has been launched over Twitter under the hashtag UAEDressCode where they ask fellow residents to dress conservatively in public places such as shopping malls, parks and restaurants

Many shopping malls around the country such as Mall of the Emirates and The Dubai Mall have signs on the entrances that advise visitors to cover their thighs and shoulders. However, many people have not abided by the rules and thus the campaign
was launched.

I understand that our country is not the coolest place on earth in terms of temperature, but there are other ways to wear conservative yet light clothing without necessarily revealing too much skin that may be offensive to Emiratis.

Dos:

• Maxi dresses made of light fabrics, are conservative yet trendy. They come in colourful prints and are perfect to wear in our unbearable weather. I have found an amazing selection at Koton, H&M and Zara in Abu Dhabi Mall
• Flared trousers made from light fabrics, are also trendy yet respectful. They can be found in Mango, Forever 21, or you could tailor your own! Cairo textiles on Khalifa Street has the season’s latest fabric prints
• If you love wearing shorts, opt for those that are knee-length
• If in doubt, cover bare shoulders

 

Don’t:

• Don’t wear sheer clothing if you are going to public/family places
• Do not walk around in your bathing suit when heading to the beach
• Leave very short shorts and tank tops for the beach and do not wear them to malls or restaurants

 

Finally being fashionable is not about what you wear, but how you wear it. If you have any questions follow me on Twitter @manar_alhinai