respecting muslim culture

[carolla]

in an Islamic setting is a short-sleeved t-shirt worn by a non-Islamic woman considered to be respectful or disrespectful?

[jno]

I doubt any of them would think it respectful, but countries where tourism is common - Egypt or Morocco or Tunisia, say - are pretty much used to it. Don't try it in Saudi Arabia or Iran, though. Where did you have in mind?

[Ethel]

Slip a lightweight wrap in your bag for times you feel you should cover up

[KARL]

In most islamic societies there is the "official" and "unofficial" and they sometimes differ widely. jno is correct that Saudi Arabia and Iran are two of the countries where wearing this clothing in public (i.e. not covered) is an offence or at least seen as offensive, unlikely to go unpunished. However, in private situations in these same countries, such as within a walled garden or in a house, you should not be surprised to see lots of local women wearing T-shirts and other things forbidden on the street or in shops - and in mixed company too. The time has not yet arrived where the unofficial is officially accepted, but I have no doubt it will eventually. Even religious masters die, just like the rest of us, and are replaced by new ones who have a different outlook.

[Dee Sa]

when I worked and lived in Dubai [ for 14 years] we were expected to "cover up " and wear long sleeved blouse for the office or visiting a Muslim household and t-shirt if you were going to the beach, but as now it is a major tourist resort short sleeve t-shirt would be acceptable but not for visiting a strict Islamic household, even though you would be shown and expected to sit in the majalis [ womens quarters].
Are you talking about in the UK or another country.

[carolla]

thanks for all helpful replies! i am not visiting another but have accepted a position working in a private muslim owned and opperated business...no guidance was given me except that i am expected to be 'modest' in dress. i staryed thinking that my definition of modest might not match what my new employers picture as modest so i thought i'd better get a better idea of what is intended. ps. what about sandals?

[wan_amri]

In my opinion the best thing to do is to wear long sleeve to show respect to locals.