Iran is the land of wonders and traveling to Iran as a woman is an excellent experience if you know about some rules as well as costumes. Knowing about the culture, traditions, and laws of your destination leads to a better stay at a new destination.
As you may hear, hijab as a new dress code in Iran is for both men and women after the Islamic revolution of 1979. According to the law, Iranian women should cover their bodies and heads except for their faces and hands in public. Men are also obliged to cover their bodies with long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
Here we provide you some information about Iran dress code for women, which is known also as hijab, safety for female travelers, and some tips, which make your journey more memorable to Iran. So read on!
Dress code for women traveling Iran
The good news that this law is not strictly enforced in Iran in recent years. The state-run administrations and organizations and religious sites are the only places that you should observe the Iranian dress code according to the law.
Otherwise, you should apply the principles. As a female tourist, you should cover your hairs, put on a long-sleeved tunic beneath your hip, and long pants. As a male tourist, just avoid sleeveless shirts and shorts!
There is not no other law for tourists. They should observe the Iranian dress code just like Iranians.
Remember that the dress code in Iran is different from the Muslim dress code in the Middle East and some other parts of the world. It is not very strict and has its own style. So it is up to you to choose the color of your dress in a skinny or baggy style!
However, as Iranians are very friendly and hospitable, they are aware of the tourists’ limitations and their unfamiliarity with this kind of dress code. Hence, most of the time, it is not a problem if you don’t perform the exact dress code.
However, it is okay to cover the top of your head with a scarf or shawl. A long-sleeved shirt, cardigan, or manteau which covers two-third of your arms and with length beneath the hips is great. Long pants to the ankles are perfect as well.
Wearing sandals without socks is also ok in most places and cities of Iran Also, Iranian women wear makeup most of the time. Hence, it is not unusual to see women in makeup on streets, bazaars, or any other places.
What about women’s dress code on religious sites?
In religious sites like mosques and shrines, you should observe the Iranian dress code strictly. You cannot enter the religious sites without complete covering.
Although in most shrines chardor, an outer garment that women put on their head and cover the body with an open front, is granted to women before entering the place.
Besides, people in some cities like Isfahan, Yazd, and Kashan are more conscious about the Iranian dress code.
Try to be more careful about your clothes in these cities in order not to have any problem. And of course, always respect the culture of your host during your trip. It makes you more friendly and wise!
Women-only sections in the metro and buses
On urban buses and subways, there is a special section for women in which, the men are not allowed to enter.
Usually, the front part of the buses on the Bus rapid transit (BRT) line, the bottom section of urban buses, and two carriages (the first and last ones) on the metro are for women.
Although you can use other carriages of the metro as a woman if you wish, a carriage is dedicated to women and no men are allowed to enter.
What about solo female travelers to Iran?
As a solo female traveler, you are very welcome in Iran! The day you leave the country, you would have great memories of people who do their best to create joyful moments for you.
Dressing modestly always is a great way to guarantee your safety. So respect the women’s dress code in Iran and have a great trip.
To be safe in Iran, preferably ask for help from women. In this way, you can be safer and in line with Iranian culture. Iranians are very hospitable and friendly. however, it is not common for a woman in Persian culture to accept invitations of single men.
Traveling in the brightness of the day is a must for solo traveling. Walking alone on the road in darkness may be dangerous in unknown places. Do not give personal information to strangers to protect yourself against dangers.
Some tips about social interactions in Iran
The more you know and respect the culture of your host country, the more you feel safe and enjoy your moments during your trips.
Although you can see couples walking hand in hand on the streets, in cafes and restaurants, Iranians are very physically intimated in social interaction, however, it is only between the same sexes.
Two friends of the same sex hug and kiss each other cheeks as a part of the greeting. Although couples’ hugging and kissing are not very common in public places there is not any problem with that.
With knowing all these points, you have a great travel to Iran as a woman! Remember that Iranian women are active and stylish while observing the dress code. Hence, feel free to find your style, which is in the framework of the Iranian dress code. Be stylish tourists to Iran.
