How to Dress Properly When Visiting Beaches in Abu Dhabi – Cultural Expectations

The beaches of Abu Dhabi are beautiful oases of white sand where you can relax, work on your tan, and swim in the warm water. They are fun and exciting places to relax in Abu Dhabi, which offers a range of thrilling activities. But it is also an Islamic City governed by conservative laws; hence, when dressing for the beach one must not offend these laws. Here's a look at what you can wear to an Abu Dhabi beach.

trolvag, Al Khubeirah - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates - panoramio (6), CC BY-SA 3.0

Beachwear for Men Visiting an Abu Dhabi Beach

Body-hugging attire is not appropriate for a beach in Abu Dhabi. Leave behind the tight-fitting Speedos and opt for loose-fitting swim shorts and cotton t-shirts. Body-hugging clothing is considered indecent in the conservative Islamic nation.

Do not expose too much skin. Your shorts must be up to your knees or longer if possible. Don't opt for skinnies, since your shoulders must be covered. Choose t-shirts with sleeves.

Do not wear clothes that expose your mid-riff. Make sure your t-shirt is long enough to cover your middle and the neck does not expose too much of your chest. That's right – going bear bodied for men is a big 'no' even at the beach in Abu Dhabi. You can, of course, dress as you please when lounging around the pools at Abu Dhabi luxury hotels. Many boast comfortable surroundings and a chance for you to be yourself and unwind. Some like Anantara

Sir Bani Yas Island Al Sahel Villa Resort located on the rustic Sir Bani Yas Island are perfect for water sports, exploring the Arabian Gulf, and desert wilderness.
One final tip for men's attire; make sure the t-shirts you wear are not bearing any slogans or motifs, which could seem offensive to the Islamic religion, conservative laws, or the locals.

What Should Women Wear to an Abu Dhabi Beach

Women too should not wear any body-hugging clothes to a public beach in Abu Dhabi. You shouldn't flaunt your curves, so it is a must that you choose loose-fitting attire. You will see people in bikinis or G-strings, and locals are learning to accept these choices of beachwear by foreigners. But many consider them to be disrespectful to their Islamic beliefs and customs. Do the right thing and respect the locals. Reserve your chic beachwear for times you lounge around the pool or beach of your luxury hotel in Abu Dhabi.

A one-piece swimsuit is an ideal choice. Since women too must not expose too much skin. Hence, choose to wear

beach attire that covers your shoulders and chest. Exposing too much cleavage is considered disrespectful and you must take care to follow the customs of a foreign nation.

Of course, the private beach of a resort on Sir Bani Yas Island will allow you to wear your favourite bikini to the beach and dress as you please.

General Advice on How to Dress at an Abu Dhabi Beach

While the above deals with appropriate clothing, here are some general tips. You cannot, of course, go topless at any of the public beaches. Nor can you wear see-through clothing. Transparent clothing must not be worn when you're out in general.

The private beaches at Abu Dhabi resorts are more relaxed and you can dress as you wish. But out of respect, make sure to avoid overexposing attire. Make sure that children who have reached puberty are dressed conservatively too.

Dealing with Local Authorities in Abu Dhabi

There may be times that the local authorities approach you to advise you on your choice of clothing. At a moment like that, do not argue. You are in a foreign land and are bound to respect the customs there. Getting into an argument will only make matters worse and maybe things will even end up with you dealing with the police.

All things aside, Abu Dhabi is one of the world's most-visited holiday destinations. The luxury island resorts in Abu Dhabi are perfect for spending a holiday in the tropics where you can be yourself. Enjoy the exotic customs, gorgeous surroundings, and a memorable holiday in Abu Dhabi.