Iran Dress Code and Hijab
Islamic republic of Iran, has regulated hijab compulsory for Iranians and all foreigners who enter the country. regardless of their religion, foreigners are expected to have hijab. Maybe one of the main differences to other countries you’d traveled before, is Iranian dress code and hijab, and this is the biggest concern for female travelers to Iran. As an Islamic country, Iran has its own rules for dressing in public. But let’s get one thing straight – you don’t have to wear a burqa or anything that fully covers you, the only times when foreign women must wear a Burqa are when visiting some shrines and some mosques. These can almost always be borrowed onsite. When you arrive you will soon see the reality is far removed from the stereotype.
Scarf: As a woman, you should cover the hair with headscarves, do remember to have a headscarf with yourself as you have to wear it the moment you enter and are officially in Iran. This headscarf accompanies you all time you’re in the country except in hotel’s room. If your headscarf falls (which happens often!) don’t worry and quickly put it back on again. It’s not so serious point, but just pay attention at all times. Iranian women are stylish and proud of their appearance – fashion being a means to stand out and make a statement.
Tip 1: Wearing your hair in a high bun or ponytail helps keep the scarf in place!
Tip 2: Choose the headscarf color freely, not necessarily dark colors. It’s OK!
Tip 3: You can buy very nice headscarves in local shops with very low prices; beautiful colors and patterns, call it a memento of Iran thereafter!
Manto: (body cover) Wear somehow loose-fitting tops and three-quarter length sleeves are acceptable.
Trousers: Trousers, jeans or long skirts depending on the traveling season are all OK.
Tip: It’s better to be more cautious in Mashhad, Qom and Isfahan and respect the values by wearing more fitting clothes.
For Men?
Men in Iran usually wear the same clothes as anyone wear in other countries, there are a small differences in some cases. Shorts are not acceptable but there isn’t a problem with wearing shorts on the beach or just in places which tend to have a vacation nature. A lot of male travelers ask me about wearing T-shirts and ties when they travel in Iran, yes, is the answer, they are acceptable and there are no problem if you guys wearing T-shirts or ties while in Iran.
