How to Dress for Work in the Heat in Dubai?
Dubai, one of the most dynamic and cosmopolitan cities in the world, attracts attention with its towering skyscrapers, luxurious hotels, and endless possibilities. However, along with its majestic sights, Dubai is also famous for its extremely hot climate, especially during the summer months. Average daily temperatures can exceed 40°C and sometimes rise to 50°C, with high levels of humidity.
In such extreme conditions, the right choice of clothing becomes a key aspect of comfortable working and well-being. The wrong choice of attire can lead to overheating, discomfort and even serious health problems. Therefore, you need to pay special attention to what to wear on a hot summer day in Dubai, especially when it comes to the workplace. In this article, we will not only look at the standards of corporate attire in Dubai but also provide hands-on advice on how to choose outfits that will ensure comfort and style even in the hottest weather. So if you've already found the right profession on Layboard, you should know the cultural dress codes for men and women.
What is the accepted dress code for men working in Dubai?
In Dubai, as in many other locations in the Middle East, there is a specific code of dress for men in the workplace. This code usually combines traditional Arabic elements with a modern style, taking into account the hot climatic environment as well. A full overview is provided here dress code for men at work in Dubai.
- Kandoura. A garment that is common among men in the Middle East, including the UAE, is the kandoura. The kandoura is a traditional garment consisting of a light-colored, usually white, long sleeved shirt worn over pants. The kandoura is usually made of light and breathable materials such as cotton or linen fabric, making it great for working in warm conditions.
- Shalwar-kameez. Another variant of traditional clothing sometimes worn by men in the UAE is the shalwar kameez. This is an Arabic style of shirt (kameez) with wide pants (shalwar). This outfit is also made of lightweight fabrics and may be more practical for some jobs.
- Business Suits. Western fashion-style business suits are also accepted in modern office environments and international companies in Dubai. However, they are usually chosen from light and cool materials such as light wool or linen suits to suit the climate.
- Polo shirts and cotton shirts. In more informal work environments or in areas where a strict business style is not required, men may wear polo shirts or cotton shirts. This is preferably done with long sleeves for protection from sunlight.
- Accessories. Traditional Arabic accessories such as ijal (headscarf) or agal (black rope that holds the kandura in place) can be an important part of the look. Stylish watches, belts and soft shoes can also complete the look.
These are the general standards of dress for men in the workplace in Dubai, however each company may have its own rules and requirements to consider.
What is the accepted dress code for women working in Dubai?
For women in Dubai, there is also a specific code in the workplace, which blends traditional and modern style elements, as well as taking into account the hot climatic environment. If you've already found a profession to your liking through https://layboard.in/vacancies/jobs-in-uae/jobs-in-dubai/speciality/cleaner, you should know how you should dress for work so you don't get hot. Here is a full review dress code for women at work in Dubai:
- Abaya. One of the most popular types of clothing for women in Dubai is the abaya, a traditional blanket worn over other clothing. It's a longer dress with long roll-up sleeves, often black, but can also be made in other colors and decorated with embroidery or lace.
- Shari. Women can also opt for a Shari, it is a conventional clothing consisting of tunic and pants (usually wide), which can be made of light and breathable materials such as cotton or linen fabric.
- Blouses and skirts. In some work areas or in more Westernized companies, more modern styles such as blouses and skirts are accepted. However, local cultural norms dictate that they should be modest, long-sleeved and fairly loose.
- Business suits. In office environments or international companies, business suits in the style of Western fashion are also accepted, which may include jackets, blouses and pants or skirts made of lightweight materials.
- Accessories. Accessories play an important role in completing the look. These can be traditional adornments such as scarves or neck pieces, as well as modern jewelry accessories such as handbags, watches or jewelry.
- Head coverings. In some cases, women may wear head coverings such as hijabs or scarves, especially if religious or cultural practices require it.
These are the general standards of dress for women in the workplace in Dubai. Keep in mind, these requirements, however, can vary based on the specific business or industry.
Restrictions in dressing for work in Dubai
Dubai has certain workplace clothing restrictions, especially regarding nudity, sexual elements and general appearance. These are some of the basic constraints:
- Modesty. Clothing should be modest and decent. This means it should not overly expose the body or emphasize sexual features.
- Nudity. A naked body or excessive revealing is not allowed. This includes short skirts, deep necklines, exposed shoulders and back.
- Transparency. The clothes should not be see-through or too thin to avoid showing underwear or intimate body parts.
- Official company rules. Each company may have its own rules and standards for corporate dress, which may be in addition to general cultural restrictions.
- Religious restrictions. In some cases, religious restrictions may apply, especially for women regarding the wearing of hijabs or other head coverings.
- Climatic conditions. Given the hot climate, wearing light, breathable, and cool clothing may be important, but modesty and decorum requirements must be observed.
Adhering to these restrictions will help meet general cultural and corporate standards and ensure a professional and respectful appearance in the Dubai workplace.
