What is the dress code in Abu Dhabi malls and mosques?

Based on a recent Dubai Mall visit: dress code is enforced but not overly strict — beachwear, underwear-like shorts, and bra-as-top outfits are not allowed. Regular dresses, pants, T-shirts and shorts are fine; no one forces you to wear an abaya.

At mosques (e.g. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi) there's a strict dress code: ankles and wrists must be covered, clothing must be opaque. Visitors dressed inappropriately are given a free abaya at the entrance.

In Dubai malls, staff and locals rarely pay attention to what tourists wear — you can dress fairly freely.

In Abu Dhabi and Sharjah malls it's better to dress a bit more modestly than in Dubai — some malls (like Dubai Mall) may deny entry for very revealing outfits.

If you plan a mosque tour in Abu Dhabi, expect the strict dress code to apply regardless of what you wore elsewhere in the emirate — an abaya is available on-site.