Bollywood star Deepika Padukone is at the center of a social media storm after appearing in a commercial for Experience Abu Dhabi, promoted by the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi.
In the ad, Deepika is seen wearing a striking red outfit that covers her entire body, leaving only her face and hands visible.
Many netizens rushed to label the garment as a “hijab,” criticising the actress for supposedly promoting another religion for money.
However, fashion and cultural experts have clarified that what Deepika wore is not a hijab but an abaya, a long, flowing robe traditionally worn by Muslim women in the Middle East.
Deepika recently joined her husband, Ranveer Singh, as the regional brand ambassador of Experience Abu Dhabi.
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The ad has gone viral, sparking debate, but it’s clear that many users misunderstood the clothing choice.
Fans are now defending Deepika, pointing out that wearing an abaya is a mark of respect for local culture and has no religious connotation.
“As Indians we need not show insecurity about everything. She is covering her head just like we would expect foreign tourists to wear decent clothes in our temples. And more than that UAE is a strategic partner to our country along with enough bilateral trade and military operations. Deepika and Ranveer are looking regal. That regality is Indian,” wrote one.
Another fan shared, “Let me clarify every tourist who visits Sheikh Zayad Masjid both males and females have to wear decent clothes and women to cover their heads. Many Christian celebrities, too, cover their heads. So stop making issue”, with one pointing, “The same Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh for Siddhi Vinayak temple by the way. Mosque is a worship place just like temple so obviously she would wear clothes appropriately?? you all just hungry for engagement that’s it.”
At Abu Dhabi’s iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, tradition and reverence go hand in hand — and that extends to what visitors wear.
According to the mosque’s official guidelines, every woman — Muslim or not — is required to wear an abaya when entering the premises. The rule, authorities say, is rooted in the UAE’s customs and aimed at preserving the sanctity of one of the world’s most revered places of worship.
The dress code calls for modest, loose-fitting clothing that covers the body fully — sleeves must reach the wrists and hemlines the ankles. Women are also required to cover their hair, while transparent or tight-fitting garments are not permitted.
In a note to visitors, the mosque’s website emphasises respect for the spiritual setting: “We kindly request individuals to wear appropriate and modest attire, in line with the significance of this sacred space. To ensure a respectful ambience, we also ask visitors to refrain from wearing excessive jewellery, heavy makeup, or vibrant colours.”
The guidelines, officials say, are less about restriction and more about reflection — encouraging every visitor to honour the mosque’s spirit of serenity and devotion.
