If you are planning a vacation to Doha in Qatar you will need to be informed on how best to fit in. You may have realized that Qatar is generally hot and maybe you’re even wondering can you wear shorts in Doha. While researching this topic we found the answer.
Are you able to wear shorts in Doha? Yes, you can wear shorts in Doha, but you shouldn’t wear shorts that are too short. As long as you make sure that they’re tasteful, not revealing, and below the knee in length you should be fine in most circumstances.
But…The more important question here is should you wear shorts in Doha? We’ll explain why that might not be the best choice while visiting.
What Is The Qatari Dress Code And How Do I Make Sure To Adhere To It?
Shorts in a hot climate like Qatar may seem like a no-brainer to most, but you have to consider the cultural customs of where you’re visiting when you’re traveling abroad. Paying close attention to your surroundings and knowing what to expect will help to ensure that you do not offend anyone and that you don’t draw any unnecessary negative attention to yourself.
While there is no law against wearing shorts in Doha, it is generally frowned upon. Qataris are very proud and have strict traditions that they follow and expect visitors to adhere to as well. This especially applies to their dress code.
The women of Qatar oftentimes cover everything from head to toe, except their eyes. While visitors aren’t required to wear the same coverage, they are strongly encouraged to wear pants or a long skirt that will at least cover their knees and a shirt that has sleeves and that does not show any hint of cleavage.
When traveling to Qatar you will want to avoid cut-off shorts, tank-tops, leggings, and any clothing that is tight and/or made of sheer materials. These are all big no-nos, especially in Doha. Your best bet, when preparing for a trip to any country in the Middle East, would be to pack light-colored clothing that’s made of breathable fabric, like linen and cotton.
These items will help to make the Qatar heat a little more bearable, even if you’re out enjoying a desert activity. You can also keep a shawl or scarf that you can quickly cover your shoulders up with if you do decide to wear something sleeveless. Generally speaking, as long as you keep modesty in mind when dressing for a day out on the town, you should enjoy a safe trip in Doha.
Where Should You Definitely Not Wear Shorts?
There are a few places where you should never wear shorts or anything that doesn’t completely cover your knees (and shoulders). These places include a mosque, restaurants, and shopping malls, pretty much anywhere that you would encounter large groups of people.
Where Are Shorts A Little More Acceptable?
The best, and probably only, time you should ever wear shorts is when you’re going swimming in a pool, heading to the beach, or if you’re going to a recreational spot where you will be exercising. Other than that you will want to stick to more conservative attire.
What If I Wear Shorts Where I Shouldn’t?
There are a couple of different things that can happen if you wear inappropriate clothing in Doha.
They have begun to be a little more lax when it comes to cracking down on those that are inappropriately dressed. Perhaps the worst case scenario would be that you could face some serious jail time – up to 6 months! – and possibly even a fine of around $800.
At bare minimum, if you’re out anywhere public showing off your knees and shoulders, you will definitely get some disgruntled looks from the locals, especially from the older and more reserved citizens. You might even get some jealous looks from the other visitors that are adhering to the guidelines set forth by the culture.
Not only that, but you could get some unwanted and unsavory attention. Men outnumber women greatly in Qatar, so it’s usually not a good idea to be dressing in a way that might give off the wrong impression.
If you are visiting Doha for a short vacation and are staying at a beach resort, you will find that things are a little more lenient onsite. You’re more than welcome to lounge around in your bathing suit and dress down around the pool and private beach, but anytime you venture out into the general public you will need to cover up.
Overall, it’s best to just join the club and dress modestly. This will ensure that you are able to have the best time possible without feeling out of place or having to deal with any adversity during your trip.
