Joanna James
With year-round sunshine and a warm climate from coast to desert, your Dubai wardrobe should provide the utmost comfort. Discover all the packing essentials and must-haves, with a guide to dressing in Dubai.
Dubai's hot climate and inclination towards modesty call for breathable and versatile pieces. Oversized trousers are perfect for both business and casual, and are effortlessly chic. Linen and lightweight cotton are great materials to look out for, allowing you to blend in with trendy neighbourhoods while keeping cool in the desert heat. Paired with basics and high-quality jewellery, linen trousers can elevate your look to another level.
Retro jeans, or "mom" jeans, are another great option that is equally as versatile. Unlike tight-fitting jeans or high-waisted jeggings, retro denim pieces are ideal for putting together modern modest outfits while adapting to the heat. Plus, they're timeless, outliving the ever-evolving trends of modern fashion.
For a piece perfect for rooftop drinks downtown, or dinners at hotels in Dubai Deira, a silk slip skirt couldn't be a better option. Breezy, stylish, and classy, these skirts scream luxury while keeping your luggage light.
With so much to explore in Dubai, the right footwear is essential. Open-toed sandals in neutral or metallic shades are perfect for the heat, offering style and breathability while complementing almost any outfit.
Also, Dubai's attractions and landmarks are anything but small. If you’re planning to walk around Dubai Mall, Souk Madinat, or Old Dubai, comfortable sneakers are a lifesaver, even if staying at a nearby hotel like Avani Deira Dubai. Choose a sleek, minimalist pair that works for both casual and slightly dressier settings.
Considering Dubai's weather, flowy dresses are a go-to item, combining elegance with ease. Flowy maxi dresses are ideal for day-to-night transitions, whether for shopping in Downtown Dubai or sunset drinks by the beach. They provide full coverage while allowing airflow, making them perfect for staying stylish in the heat. Although the majority of Dubai is flexible with dress codes, certain areas still favour more modest attire. Therefore, maxi dresses with loose sleeves are the perfect remedy.
Long-sleeve tiered midi or mini dresses are excellent for modest yet fashionable looks. These dresses offer volume and movement while aligning with Dubai’s chic and sophisticated aesthetic.
A well-curated selection of tops will elevate your Dubai wardrobe. A black tank top is a must-have staple—it’s versatile, timeless, and easy to pair with trousers, jeans, or skirts. A cotton button-up or light long-sleeve shirt is essential for layering, whether over a tank top for modesty or tucked into high-waisted pants for a polished look. Lastly, an extra lightweight layer, like a breezy kimono or sheer cardigan, is perfect for indoor places with strong air conditioning while adding a stylish modest touch.
Accessories can elevate even the simplest outfits. A statement purse, whether in a bold colour, unique texture, or designer logo, instantly adds a fashion-forward touch. Meanwhile, bold earrings paired with a sleek updo and minimalist attire can enhance any look with a hint of glamour. Finally, jewellery stacks—layered gold bangles, stacked rings, or dainty necklaces—reflect Dubai’s love for luxurious yet effortless style.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
