Deepika Padukone recently found herself in the eye of a social media storm after appearing in the new 'Experience Abu Dhabi' tourism campaign alongside husband Ranveer Singh. The ad, meant to showcase the city’s modern charm and rich culture, unexpectedly shifted the conversation to a few quiet seconds of Deepika walking through the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in an abaya, her head covered in respect for the holy site.
While many fans applauded her gesture as a graceful act of cultural sensitivity, some critics accused the actress of selective sensitivity, questioning why she does not always show similar reverence for Indian traditions. Ranveer Singh’s traditional attire, featuring a long beard in parts of the ad, only added fuel to the online chatter.
But what do the rules really say about dressing in the mosque? Here’s a closer look.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre (SZGMC) is one of the most visited religious landmarks globally. Its stunning white marble domes, reflective pools, and intricate carvings attract millions of worshippers and tourists every year.
The mosque emphasises that it is a place of worship holding a sacred position for all Muslims, and visitors are expected to abide by specific ethics and rules. Anyone causing disturbance or breaching these duties may be denied entry or asked to leave.
Among the most emphasised rules are the dress guidelines, ensuring visitors maintain decorum within the sacred space.
To preserve the sanctity of the mosque, the visitor dress code requires modest attire aligned with UAE customs:
For women:
- Clothing must be loose-fitting and cover the body up to the ankles.
- Sleeves should extend to the wrists.
- Hair must be fully covered.
- Avoid transparent, tight-fitting, or revealing attire.
- Minimal jewellery, makeup, and muted colours are preferred.
For men:
- Clothing should cover the entire legs.
- Transparent, tight-fitting, or sleeveless shirts are discouraged.
Since late 2024, visitors who do not arrive in appropriate attire can purchase an abaya from the mosque’s entrance shops. These rules are not unique to Abu Dhabi; most mosques worldwide expect visitors, regardless of religion, to dress respectfully.
The mosque’s rules extend beyond attire. Visitors are asked to:
- Avoid carrying inflammable items, fireworks, e-cigarettes, or sharp objects.
- Refrain from bringing dolls, stuffed animals, flags, masks, or symbols.
- Avoid displays of affection or intimacy.
- Maintain calm, speak softly, and set phones to silent.
- Do not consume food, drinks, or smoke inside. Sleeping or lying down is prohibited.
Photography is allowed only in designated areas for personal use. Commercial or professional shoots require prior permission. Visitors should not lean, sit, or pose inappropriately in prayer halls or courtyards. Violations of these rules have led to visitors being escorted out in the past.
Deepika Padukone’s abaya-wearing moment was not a fashion statement but a gesture of respect for local customs. While social media reactions were mixed, the incident highlights the importance of understanding cultural norms when visiting sacred sites. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque remains a stunning architectural wonder, welcoming visitors from all backgrounds, as long as they follow the simple yet significant rules that ensure its sanctity is preserved.
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About the Author:
Akanksha Sinha
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