Men's Shorts in Dubai: Length, Fit and Where You Can Wear Them
Shorts are the most practical thing a man can wear in Dubai, if you get the length right. A simple guide to men's shorts that look smart and work everywhere.
In a city where summer lasts most of the year, men's shorts aren't optional. But there is a big difference between shorts that look good at a Friday lunch and shorts that get you a polite look at the mall entrance. Most of it comes down to one thing: length.
The length that works everywhere
In Dubai, aim for shorts that reach the knee or just below it. Malls and many public places ask for knees to be covered (see our Dubai Mall dress code guide), and a knee-length cut also simply looks more grown-up. It is why we cut our Medina Shorts below the knee: you can go from the beach club to the mall to dinner without changing.
Very short shorts are better kept for the gym and the pool.
How men's shorts should fit
- Relaxed through the leg. Air needs to move. Skinny shorts are hot and they ride up.
- A clean waist. An elasticated waist with a drawstring is comfortable, as long as the shorts still look tailored.
- A hem that sits straight. No fraying, no rolled-up cuffs unless that's the look you want.
What to wear with shorts
A polo
The easiest smart-casual combination in the Gulf. A collar makes shorts look intentional.
A good T-shirt
For relaxed weekends, a quality T-shirt with some weight to the fabric looks much better than a thin one.
The matching set
Shorts and a polo in the same colour is one of our favourite looks for men. It looks considered, it's cool in the heat, and it takes no thought at all in the morning.
Shoes
Loafers or clean leather slip-ons look sharpest. Smart leather sandals work for daytime. White sneakers are fine for casual days. Avoid sports socks with loafers.
Where to wear trousers instead
- Mosques, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, where men are asked to cover their legs
- Government offices
- Most offices and business meetings
- Smarter restaurants in the evening
Keep one pair of light, relaxed trousers ready for those occasions and you're covered.
Colours
Sand, stone, olive, navy and brown all work in the Gulf light. Darker shorts look smarter, lighter shorts feel cooler. One of each covers most of the year.
Questions men ask us
Can men wear shorts in Dubai malls?
Yes, as long as they cover the knee.
What length should men's shorts be?
For Dubai, at the knee or just below. It works in more places and looks better.
Can I wear shorts to a restaurant?
For casual lunches, yes. For smarter evening restaurants, trousers are the safer choice.
