The law would see visitors to the Emirates having to cover up in public places such as shopping malls, to be more appropriate for the Muslim culture. Currently, skimpy dress showcased in public places such as shorts or skirts that are above the knee for women are frowned upon, although it is suspected that not many tourists are aware of this before they travel.

Tourists would still be allowed to wear swimwear on beaches, and shorts where they are not likely to cause offence to other families.

A member of the Dubai Cultural Council, Fatima Al Sayegh, was quoted by The National newspaper in Abu Dhabi as saying that the law was "long overdue" and urgently needed, adding "people go on holiday for culture, shopping, to see heritage, not to go and get naked."