What to Wear in Abu Dhabi

What to Wear
Abu Dhabi’s dress expectations are more relaxed than you might assume — but knowing which context calls for what genuinely makes the trip easier. In malls, restaurants and the main tourist areas, smart casual is the norm. Shorts and t-shirts for men, summer dresses or jeans for women — nobody bats an eye.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the big exception, and it’s not a suggestion — it’s enforced right at the entrance gate. Both men and women need shoulders, arms and legs fully covered, and women also need their hair covered. Don’t stress if you show up unprepared: free abayas and headscarves are handed out at the entrance, and plenty of visitors use them.

Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace open to public tours, isn’t as strict as the mosque, but it’s a working ceremonial seat of government, so smart, modest dress — shoulders and knees covered — is the sensible default rather than a hard rule.

Heading out into the desert? Loose long trousers and long sleeves will serve you better than shorts despite the heat — they protect against sun exposure and they’re genuinely more comfortable than you’d expect. And wherever you go, comfortable closed shoes earn their keep given how much walking most major sites involve.