What Should Female Tourists Wear In Islamic Countries?

Female tourists should dress conservatively in most muslim countries, but dress codes might not be as strict as you think. Unlike the manteaux, however, the scarves in the local markets come in bright colours, stripes, paisleys and patterns.

1.      The Maldives. Yes, this is an Islamic country – something most visitors forget. If you are going to visit a local village, however, male, cover your shoulders, knees and chest.

2.      Malaysia. What you wear will depend on whether you're staying in Kuala Lumpur or venturing further afield. In multicultural KL and the surrounding areas, you will see women wearing everything from hotpants and singlet tops to a more restrained scarf-and-loose-clothing combo. The eastern states, however, are much more conservative, so pack long skirts and loose shirts.

3.      Dubai, the rules can seem confusing. Cover your shoulders, cleavage and knees, and skip the tight clothing.

4.      Jordan. There is no need to cover your hair, except when entering a mosque.

5.      Egypt, women who don't cover up will have a hard time fending off men who see their bare skin as an open invitation. Stick with long trousers and loose fitting tops that cover at least to your elbows. If you are wearing skinny leg pants, team them with a long shirt that covers your rear.

6.      Morocco. Rule:

a.       No cleavage.

b.      No knees.

c.       No shoulders. 

7.      Iran. Local women cover their hair with scarves and wear manteaux over jeans.