What is the Dress Code in Qatar?

When visiting any foreign country, it’s crucial to respect the local customs and etiquette. This is especially true for Qatar, where Dress Code in Qatar reflect deep-rooted traditions and religious beliefs. Ever thought of how dressing up is so much more than just fabric? In Qatar, it’s a blend of tradition, respect, and cultural significance. Let’s dive deeper into understanding it.

Dress Code in Qatar For Visitors

Qatar warmly welcomes visitors from all over the world. However, travelers should adhere to a modest dress code:

• For women: Long dresses, skirts, or trousers that cover the knees.
• For men: Short or long-sleeved shirts with trousers or jeans.

Dress Code for Foreign Ladies in Qatar

Ladies, when in Qatar, think modesty:

• Avoid sleeveless tops. Opt for blouses or T-shirts that cover the shoulders.
• Skirts or dresses should be at least knee-length or longer.
• Scarves are not mandatory but can be worn out of respect, especially in religious places.

Dress Code for Foreign Men in Qatar

Gentlemen, it’s relatively straightforward:

• Sleeveless vests are discouraged in public.
• Shorts should be avoided in public areas, but they’re acceptable in private places or hotels.
• Wearing local attire is welcomed but not mandatory.

What Are the Wearing Rules in Qatar?

For Women:

1. Modesty is Key: Women should aim to cover their shoulders, upper arms, and knees at all times when in public. This means avoiding sleeveless tops, very short skirts, or dresses.
2. Headscarves: Foreign women aren’t required to wear a headscarf unless they are visiting religious sites. However, it’s a sign of respect if one chooses to wear it in other places.
3. Swimwear: At public beaches, women should wear modest swimwear, such as a one-piece or a “burkini.” However, in hotel pools or private beaches, typical swimwear is usually acceptable.

For Men:

1. T-Shirts and Shirts: Sleeveless shirts or vests are generally discouraged in public areas. It’s more acceptable to wear T-shirts or button-up shirts.
2. Shorts: While shorts are commonly worn in private places or inside compounds and hotels, it’s recommended for men to wear trousers or longer shorts that are knee-length or below when in public spaces.
3. Traditional Wear: Foreign men aren’t required to wear the traditional Qatari dress, but if they choose to, it’s seen as a sign of respect.

What to Wear in Qatar Airport

For Women:

1. Tops: opt for blouses, t-shirts, or tunics that cover the shoulders. Sleeveless tops are acceptable but it’s preferable if they’re not too revealing.
2. Bottoms: Wear trousers, jeans, or long skirts. It’s recommended that skirts or dresses be knee-length or longer, but remember, you’ll be sitting for extended periods, so ensure they’re comfortable.
3. Dresses: If you choose to wear a dress, ensure it’s not too short or revealing. Midi or maxi dresses are a good choice.
4. Footwear: Comfort is key, especially if you have layovers or long walks within the airport. Closed shoes, sandals, or slip-on shoes are all acceptable.
5. Outerwear: Airports and planes can get chilly, so carry a light shawl, sweater, or jacket.
6. Headscarves: While it’s not mandatory for foreign women to wear a headscarf at the airport, it’s always a good item to have on hand, especially if you plan on visiting other places in Qatar after your arrival.

For Men:

1. Tops: T-shirts, polo shirts, or button-up shirts are all acceptable. Sleeveless shirts or vests might be less suitable for the cultural setting.
2. Bottoms: Jeans, chinos, or trousers are advisable. While shorts are generally acceptable within the airport, longer ones that reach the knee are more appropriate.
3. Footwear: Like for women, comfort is crucial. Sneakers, loafers, or sandals work well.
4. Outerwear: A light jacket or sweater is advisable due to the air-conditioned environment.

What Are Children Expected to Wear in Qatar?

• Children’s attire is less strict, but modesty is still appreciated. Dresses for young girls and knee-length shorts for boys are acceptable.

What Do Qataris Wear

For Qatari Men:

• Thobe (also spelled “Thawb”): This is a long white robe worn by Qatari men.
• Ghutra and Agal: The ghutra is a square headscarf, traditionally white or red and white checked.
• Bisht: This is a decorative cloak worn over the thobe during special occasions.
• Shoes: Typically, Qatari men wear open-backed sandals made of leather.

For Qatari Women:

• Abaya: Qatari women wear a black cloak called an abaya. It’s worn over their regular clothes when they go out in public.
• Shayla: This is a long black or colored scarf that women drape over their shoulders and use to cover their hair.
• Hijab: Some Qatari women choose to wear the hijab, which is a headscarf that covers the hair completely but leaves the face exposed.
• Niqab: This is a veil that covers the face.
• Shoes: Like their male counterparts, Qatari women often wear sandals.
• Accessories: Qatari women accessorize their outfits with jewelry, handbags, and sometimes gloves. Gold is particularly popular in the region.

How to Dress for Qatar Weather

Qatar is known for its desert climate:

• Light, breathable fabrics are your best friends.
• Sunglasses, hats, and sunblock are essential.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

What To Wear in Qatar: Private Places vs Public Places

This ensures that one remains respectful of the local customs and traditions while also feeling comfortable and appropriate for the setting. Here’s a guide on what to wear in Qatar based on different settings:

Public Places:

Public places in Qatar typically include shopping malls, restaurants, streets, parks, and most attractions.

For Women:

1. Tops: Choose blouses or shirts that cover the shoulders. Sleeveless tops can be worn but ensure they aren’t too revealing.
2. Bottoms: Longer skirts, trousers, or jeans are appropriate. If wearing a skirt, it’s preferable for it to be knee-length or longer.
3. Dresses: Midi or maxi dresses that aren’t too tight or revealing are suitable.
4. Headscarf: While it’s not mandatory for non-Qatari women to wear a headscarf, it’s a good idea to carry one, especially if visiting religious or traditional sites.

For Men:

1. Tops: T-shirts, polo shirts, or button-down shirts are fitting. Sleeveless shirts or tank tops might be less appropriate.
2. Bottoms: Jeans, chinos, or long shorts that reach or surpass the knees are ideal.
3. Footwear: Both closed shoes and sandals are suitable.

Private Places:

Private places would encompass someone’s home, private parties, or events, and sometimes even hotel areas or expatriate residential compounds.

For Women:

1. Tops: You have more flexibility in private settings. Sleeveless tops, off-shoulder blouses, or even spaghetti straps might be acceptable, depending on the occasion and company.
2. Bottoms: Shorts, skirts, or any preferred style can be worn.
3. Dresses: Any style of dress, including shorter or more fitted ones, is typically okay.
4. Headscarf: Usually not required unless the host or the occasion dictates otherwise.

For Men:

1. Tops: T-shirts, polo shirts, tank tops, or any casual shirts are suitable.
2. Bottoms: Shorts, jeans, or any comfortable pants are appropriate.
3. Footwear: Any casual footwear, including flip-flops, is typically accepted.

Swimming Dress For Women

• In hotel pools or private beaches, regular swimwear is acceptable. However, at public beaches or pools, it’s more appropriate to wear a modest swimsuit or a burkini.

Workplace Attire in Qatar

• Workplaces usually expect a formal dress code. Women often wear long skirts or trousers with blouses, while men don suits.

How to Keep Cool in Hot Countries

Ever wondered how locals manage the heat?

• Natural fabrics like cotton help in stay cool.
• Wearing light-colored clothes reflects the sun.
• Always stay under the shade during peak hours.

What to Wear at the Beach in Doha?

Private beaches or those attached to hotels have a more relaxed dress code. However, on public beaches, modest attire is encouraged.

What to Wear Inside a Mosque in Doha?

If you’re planning to visit a mosque:

• Women should cover their hair with a scarf or shayla.
• Both men and women should wear attire that covers their arms and legs.

FAQS Dress Code in Qatar