What to wear? | ExpatWoman.com
 

What to wear?

2
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 March 2013 - 11:32

Stupid question I know.. but... my (soon to be) husband and I are moving to Abu Dhabi soon, from Singapore. I have loads of tops and dresses with spaghetti or singlet style straps. Are these going to be acceptable there? On their own or with a light cardigan? I know the blurbs say "modest" but not exactly sure how far that goes? Thanks....

4
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 April 2013 - 08:21
Hi all, Firstly thank you for posting the question. My husband and myself have been living here for a few weeks now. We are from South Africa where shorts and strappy tops are the order of the day. My friends in Dubai still dress like this but I am also finding Abu Dhabi to be more conservative. It is a headache to always have to check what you wear before you go out but I am hoping it will soon become a habit. The aircon in the malls are very cold so you will do well to always have a scarve in your bag. Goodluck with the move! Hope to see you at our coffee mornings.
4747
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 08 March 2013 - 16:09
normal tshirts ie not sleeveless vests. shorts but down to the knee, anything shorter then you can get into trouble. long trousers etc. if you are driving or going into government buildings etc then you should dress modestly as said you only need 1 person to be upset by what you are wearing for you to get into trouble and be deported etc.
Anonymous (not verified)
0
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 March 2013 - 09:12
Thanks everyone, appreciate your responses... Completely agree re not taking a risk and also respecting the culture which is why I asked the question! Will make sure I stock up on lots of wraps and cardi's before we move... And will enjoy the rain!!! It was a great question to ask - shame more people moving here don't consider this issue. As a muslim woman with young a daughter, I am shocked at times, when in the malls in Dubai and my DD of 8 years makes a comment about some woman who is wearing a very short skirt, tummy showing etc., or young boy and girl walk around arm in arm, etc. I think it is wonderful to consider the region into which you are coming and show respect for their beliefs. Thank you. Enjoy your last bit of wonderful rainy weather and lush green ... And, in advance, welcome to the desert!
2
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 March 2013 - 07:02
Thanks everyone, appreciate your responses... Completely agree re not taking a risk and also respecting the culture which is why I asked the question! Will make sure I stock up on lots of wraps and cardi's before we move... And will enjoy the rain!!!
141
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 March 2013 - 14:23
It's a very sensible question! I tend to cover over sleeveless tops with a cardi or wrap when out and don't wear anything revealing much chest or legs, the only exception might be if I was at a hotel and most guests were Western. Especially during Ramadan it is important to dress modestly. You'll find AD is more conservative than Dubai on the whole, although the only person I know here who got a telling off from the police was a man (for wearing too short shorts!). It is probably wise to cover up anyway as the sun is so strong here, and the aircon inside shops is quite fierce. Hope you have an easy move and are enjoying the rain showers in Singapore, you won't see many once you're here:)
Anonymous (not verified)
0
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 March 2013 - 13:32
While the UAE is not strict, it is not clear either. It only will take one negative comment from a local to get police involved. Why take the risk. Dress modestly, ie, sleeves to elbow, skirts below the knee, at least. You will be a guest in the country, it is only right to respect the religion and culture.
3863
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 07 March 2013 - 11:41
Stupid question I know.. but... my (soon to be) husband and I are moving to Abu Dhabi soon, from Singapore. I have loads of tops and dresses with spaghetti or singlet style straps. Are these going to be acceptable there? On their own or with a light cardigan? I know the blurbs say "modest" but not exactly sure how far that goes? Thanks.... If i am heading to the mall or supermarket etc ( where there will be a lot of people) i always take a pashmina or a cardigan. TBH people wear what they want however the UAE is not strict however it is always best to observe the customs of where you are moving too.