What should I wear to respect local culture as a Western Woman?
I'm visiting my family who lived here in Qatar (a British female tourist) and don't seem to be able to find a happy balance with my clothing... Wearing everything from full -length maxi dresses with shawls to cover my shoulders to Capri pants and high neck T shirts I keep getting booted out from supermarkets and numerous other places - not to mention plenty of grumbles!
I really want to respect the local culture here and need a quick fix... Something light and cool to wear that will cover me up.
I've noticed beautiful, colourful Kaftan-like dresses that are often heavily embellished with gems etc. and are full-length with long sleeves (not the traditional Abaya - I do know this is an option but would miss my summer brights!) These dresses can be spotted at Souq Waqif for around 250 rials and for higher prices in Malls like villagio. What are these dresses traditionally worn for - and could I wear one casually as a Western woman, or would I look sillier than ever!!!
Thanks for the advice :)
For me any wear long and loose hides a woman's body its ok
I liked your sincerity in questioning the dress code. Though you can wear the most sexy out fits here you might go with it, if some old arab women happened to object it, will be an embarrassing situation.
In general bad clothing is even obscene even in the west, then why do you put questions when your conscience is very clear that sexy/exposing body fitting/transparent dressing will hurt the sentiments of locals here, but your own person too.
You can put on any decent dress that will make you feel that you don't cause obscenity in public, that will be fine and respectful to both.
green signal: i appreciate your comment; but I believe she asked about acceptable clothing and not the Islamic prescription.
i too find it weird you're being booted..yes some women have had trouble, but for the most part i notice them to be going about their business wearing what they want without being bothered..
I really can't understand which era are you talking about, as I've personally witnessed ladies wearing shorts above their knees with sleeveless T-Shirts in Doha Malls.
The only time I was not allowed in a mall/supermarket was when my dress was at my knees. Other than that I have not had a problem with going places in Western dress. Shirts and dresses should have sleeves and pants/capris and dresses should fall below the knees. Some grocery stores located in older areas my not want you in there at all no matter what you are wearing.
Just came across this article; I thought it maybe helpful for you:
http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/general/emirati-launches-website-on-uae-etiquette-1.1222702
5. It should not be perfumed. This prohibition applies to both the body and the clothes.
6. It should not resemble the clothing worn by men.
7. It should not resemble the clothing that is specific to the non-Muslims.
A person who is obedient to God is called Muslim. Infact Muslim means obedient.
God Bless all of us.
In Islam As long as these conditions are fulfilled a woman may wear whatever she pleases.
1. The hijab (covering) must conceal the entire body except the face and the hands.
2. It should not be translucent or tight. Tight clothes, even if they conceal the colour of the skin, still describe the size and shape of the body or part of it, and create vivid images.
3. It should not attract the attention of the opposite gender; thus it should not be extravagant or excessively opulent. Nor should jewellery and makeup be on display.
4. It should not be a garment worn because of vanity or to gain popularity or fame. The female companions were known to wear black and other dark colours but other colours are permissible; a woman must not however wear colourful clothes because of vanity.
5. It should not be perfumed. This prohibition applies to both the body and the clothes.
6. It should not resemble the clothing worn by men.
7. It should not resemble the clothing that is specific to the non-Muslims.
Note: Anyone who is obedient to God is a Muslim.
Infact Muslim means Obedient.
You're getting booted for wearing capris and T-shirts and maxi dresses?
Are they tight/transparent? Otherwise I can't understand why you're attracting such negative attention - it's what I wear to the supermarket on the weekend.