There are some places where traditional clothing and modesty are part of the dress codes tourists have to follow, while other places have no rules.
Tourists visiting conservative areas, religious sites, and Muslim countries, such as Saudi Arabia and Sudan, are encouraged to be respectful and follow all the local dressing regulations.
In some places, inappropriate clothing can lead to severe legal consequences. On the other side, some liberal countries and popular destinations, such as Italy and Greece, have also banned certain clothing and shoe-wear to preserve their historical and cultural sites.
So, here are nine places where tourists have to follow strict dress codes.
1. Western-Style Clothing Is Not Allowed In North Korea
North Korea is a conservative country, so it’s no surprise people there are often forced to follow strict dress codes. Citizens can choose only from haircuts approved by the government and hair should be neat. In addition, men and women avoid Western-style clothing. Alarmingly, women caught wearing jeans and trousers can be punished or fined.
2. Saudi Arabia: Abayas And Headscarves Are Mandatory For Women
People in Saudi Arabia are often forced to follow old-fashioned and religious regulations. It’s not a secret that women there wear an obligatory niqab and an abaya as showing a bit of flesh is considered a criminal act. On the other hand, men caught in “feminine clothing” and “behaving like a woman” can be punished. Thus, tourists should be careful and modest.
3. Face Covering Is Banned In France
Elegant France is one of the few countries in Western Europe where it’s illegal for people to cover their faces. A national burqa ban was introduced in 2010 regarding burqas, motorcycle helmets, and hoods. According to Business Insider, the law was criticized as discriminatory towards Muslim women and their religious rights.
4. No “Indecent Dressing” In Uganda
Diverse Uganda is one of the most socially conservative places in Africa. Local women, in particular, are often forced to follow strict dressing rules and may face arrest for wearing skirts above the knee. The government bans “indecent dressing,” so tourists should also avoid wearing skirts above the knee or shorts.
5. The Maldives: Swimwear Is Not Always Welcome
Although many people associate the Maldives with white beaches and turquoise diving spots, we should not forget that this tropical country is Muslim and revealing swimwear is not welcomed. Western-style swimwear is limited to resorts and bikini beaches. Public beaches, on the other hand, are mainly for covered locals.
6. Avoid “Public Order” Offenses In Sudan
Sudan is another country with strict dressing regulations. According to the notorious Sharia law, women can be arrested for public order offences, such as wearing skirts. Men, on the other hand, can be punished for “indecency,” such as attending a fashion show and wearing make-up. Tourists should be extremely careful.
7. People Are Not Allowed Camouflage Clothing In St. Lucia
Believe it or not, camouflage wear is illegal in several countries across the globe, such as St. Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Antigua, Barbados, Jamaica, Grenada, Nigeria, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the Philippines. To provide an example, tourists and locals are not allowed to wear camouflage clothes in St. Lucia because it is considered military wear.
8. Avoid High Heels At Ancient Sites In Greece
Planning to visit sunny Greece? Well, tourists should know that heels are not allowed at many of Greece’s ancient sites, including the Acropolis in lively Athens. As a matter of fact, authorities have banned high heels since 2009 in order to protect national treasures from tearing. Better pack some comfortable travel shoes!.
9. Be Respectful In Hvar, Croatia
Hvar, Croatia is one of the most popular destinations all over the globe, also known as one of the “main island destinations for the super-rich.” Interestingly enough, in order to preserve the old city, authorities encourage tourists to be more respectful and have banned eating and drinking in public. Plus, tourists walking in their swimwear can be fined up to $670.
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