The Civil Service Commission (CSC) has amended the civil service dress code, introducing strict requirements for female staff and tightening standards for men in government offices.
Under the new dress code, female employees must wear tops no shorter than two inches from the low hip. Clothing fabric must be suitable for an office environment. Trousers, jackets and other items must also be made of appropriate material.
Tops, shirts, and suit jackets must be tailored to ensure the body is not visible, even when arms are raised, including at side and back vents. The garment should fall between the waist and hips when an arm is lifted, and necklines must remain fully covered.
Short sleeves must reach the elbow. Other dresses must have sleeves no longer than the wrist. Long dresses, traditional clothing and office dresses are permitted but must reach the ankles.
Women may wear jewellery, but noticeable hair colouring or highlights are prohibited under the revised dress code.
This is the first time dress code rules of this level have been introduced.
Male staff must wear long- or short-sleeved shirts. Long sleeves must reach the wrist, while short sleeves must not end more than two inches above the elbow. Men must wear long trousers made of suitable fabric.
During official hours, male employees must wear a long-sleeved shirt and a tie. Ties must not display immoral wording, images or designs.
Male employees are not allowed to wear make-up or jewellery other than a ring, according to the new civil service dress code.