There is no place quite like Israel. Home to an eclectic population of Jews, Muslims and Christians, it's a melting pot of faiths and cultures. Some of the world's most famous holy sites, like the Dome of the Rock and the Wailing Wall, are located in Israel and attract pilgrims from all over the world. To respect religious and cultural standards, familiarize yourself with local dress codes before traveling.

Conservative Areas

At religious sites and in conservative areas of Israel, like Jerusalem's Meah Shearim neighborhood, men and women should dress modestly to avoid trouble. Women should wear long skirts or dresses, not jeans or shorts, and men should also wear full-length trousers. Revealing shirts, like tank tops or low cut blouses, should also be avoided in favor of loose, covering items that don't cling or reveal excess skin. According to Trip Advisor, some neighborhoods post dress codes, which should be followed.

General City Clothes

Though parts of Israel are very conservative, a liberal, carefree attitude prevails in much of the country's big cities, like Tel Aviv. In these areas, casual western clothes, like jeans, T-shirts and dresses, are usually fine and most Israelis dress casually, even at work, with men often forgoing ties. However, if doing business for the first time, it's best to dress formally until the acceptability of casual clothes is established. For nightclubs, anything trendy and hip is fine.

Special Occasion Wear

Israel is home to many beaches and it's fine to wear a bathing suit while swimming or relaxing. Sandals are comfortable for much of the year, but Amazing Israel recommends taking modest, dressier clothes and shoes for Shabbat, the Jewish holy day. Most locals typically dress nicer for Shabbat as well, with men wearing a white shirt, particularly if they plan on attending synagogue services or a special dinner.

Head Coverings

At many holy sites in Israel, women, be they Muslim, Jewish or Christian, are required to cover their heads. Travel prepared by packing a light scarf that can be used as a head covering or shoulder drape when visiting temples, mosques and other religious places. At Jewish sites, men may also need to cover their heads, typically accomplished by wearing a yarmulke, a small, brimless camp that rests on the top of the skull.

About the Author

Hallie Engel is a food and lifestyle writer whose work has appeared in several international publications. She served as a restaurant critic for "Time Out Abu Dhabi" and "Time Out Amsterdam" and has also written about food culture in the United Arab Emirates for "M Magazine." She holds a bachelor's degree in communications and film studies from University of Amsterdam.

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