Ex-glamour model ignites backlash for revealing outfit in modesty-conscious Dubai

Katie Price has landed herself in hot water once again—this time in Dubai—after flaunting a see-through crochet dress in a series of sun-drenched selfies that many online are calling “inappropriate” and “disrespectful”.

The 47-year-old former glamour model and reality star posted pictures on her social media channels while holidaying in the UAE, wearing a barely-there white crochet dress with large cut-outs and seemingly little, if anything, underneath.

Price, known for courting controversy, appeared relaxed as she posed in front of a mirror at what appears to be a luxury resort. But followers were quick to point out the clash between her revealing attire and the conservative cultural norms of Dubai, where modest clothing is legally and culturally expected—especially for women.

Dubai, part of the United Arab Emirates, enforces strict public decency laws rooted in Islamic traditions. Tourists are regularly warned to dress modestly and respectfully in public spaces, with violators sometimes facing fines or even arrest.

One Facebook commenter didn’t hold back: “You’d be arrested for wearing that in Dubai.” Another added, “That outfit is totally disrespectful,” while a third warned, “She’ll be arrested going out in Dubai dressed like that!”

“I didn’t realise in Dubai you could walk around like that,” said one baffled follower. “I always thought Dubai had a strict clothes policy. I must have got that wrong!”

The outrage wasn’t limited to fans either. Cultural commentators weighed in, noting that while Dubai is a playground for the global rich, it still holds firm to its legal and religious codes. Public nudity, indecent exposure, and suggestive attire can all lead to legal trouble, including detention or deportation.

Katie’s choice of holiday wardrobe has often drawn headlines, but this latest episode may be more than just a fashion faux pas. Legal experts suggest that if authorities decide to take action, it wouldn’t be unprecedented. Other celebrities and influencers have previously faced bans or interrogations for similar incidents.

“She’s really pushing boundaries,” said one entertainment analyst. “Posting the images online only adds fuel to the fire, especially in a country where image and modesty are taken seriously.”

Despite the backlash, Katie has made no public comment, nor has she removed the offending photos. It’s unclear whether local authorities are aware of the images or plan to take any formal action. As of Friday morning, the photos remained live on her Instagram, with thousands of likes and hundreds of polarised comments.

Some fans did jump to her defence, arguing that Dubai’s wealthy elite often flout the rules with impunity. “Plenty of influencers wear far worse and get away with it,” one user wrote.

This latest controversy adds to a long list of headline-making moments in Price’s turbulent public life. From bankruptcies and high-profile relationships to courtroom drama, she continues to be a lightning rod for media attention—both positive and negative.

But in a city where sun, sand, and skyscrapers coexist with strict modesty laws, even Katie Price may be pushing it too far. Whether her latest look leads to legal trouble or just another round of tabloid scrutiny remains to be seen.