You can, but avoid skin-tight styles. Loose, straight-leg denim is acceptable in most major cities, though linen is significantly more comfortable in the heat.

Do I need to cover my hair all the time?

In most Middle Eastern countries, foreign women are not required to cover their hair unless entering a mosque or a specific holy site. Always keep a scarf in your bag just in case.

Open-toed sandals are fine for casual settings, but closed-toe shoes are better for keeping your feet clean and are often required for more formal or rural areas.

How to Pack Modest Clothing for the Middle East

Prioritize loose-fitting, opaque fabrics that cover your shoulders, chest, and knees at all times. Pack lightweight linen or cotton layers to stay cool while remaining respectful of local cultural norms.

Choose your base fabrics. Stick to natural fibers like linen, cotton, or thin merino wool. Synthetic materials trap sweat and heat, which makes wearing long sleeves and full-length trousers miserable in desert climates.
Cover the 'sensitive' zones. Ensure you have items that cover your collarbone, shoulders, and knees. For women, this means high necklines and trousers or skirts that reach the ankle. For men, avoid sleeveless shirts and shorts above the knee.
Master the layering game. Carry a lightweight, oversized linen scarf or pashmina in your day bag. It acts as an emergency cover-up for your head or shoulders if you decide to enter a religious site or find yourself in a more conservative area than expected.
Focus on loose cuts. Avoid form-fitting clothes like leggings or tight jeans. Loose-fitting wide-leg trousers (palazzo or linen pants) are the gold standard for staying comfortable while adhering to modesty requirements.

Can I wear jeans?: You can, but avoid skin-tight styles. Loose, straight-leg denim is acceptable in most major cities, though linen is significantly more comfortable in the heat.
Do I need to cover my hair all the time?: In most Middle Eastern countries, foreign women are not required to cover their hair unless entering a mosque or a specific holy site. Always keep a scarf in your bag just in case.
Are sandals okay?: Open-toed sandals are fine for casual settings, but closed-toe shoes are better for keeping your feet clean and are often required for more formal or rural areas.