Bollywood actors Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh have found themselves at the centre of another outrage for promoting Abu Dhabi tourism. The couple’s campaign titles, Mera Sukoon (my peace), showcase the couple exploring the city’s desert dunes, museums, and cultural landmarks. However, a brief moment showing Padukone wearing an abaya while visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque has set off a heated debate on social media.
Several users criticised the actor, accusing her of hypocrisy and recalling her 2015 Vogue India video “My Choice”. “Now Deepika Padukone has made a video promoting Abu Dhabi tourism wearing a hijab. What happened to ‘My Choice’?” one user wrote. Others came to her defence, calling the criticism misplaced and pointing out that covering one’s head at the mosque is a matter of protocol, not religion. “Even Rihanna wore one when she visited. This is just respect, not religion,” a user commented. Another wrote, “People are overreacting. She’s just following the dress code at a sacred site. That’s basic decency.”
Abaya, not hijab
While several online posts described the garment as a hijab, the outfit Padukone wore is in fact an abaya. The abaya is a long, loose-fitting robe that covers the body from shoulders to feet, unlike the hijab, which is a headscarf that covers only the hair and neck.
According to the official website of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, women visitors are required to wear modest clothing that covers the body until the ankles, with sleeves that reach the wrists, and full hair coverage. The guidelines specify that this is done to “maintain the sanctity of this revered place of worship.”
Padukone’s supporters praised her for showing cultural respect, with many sharing past photos of her visiting Indian temples. “She has always been respectful toward the culture of India,” one user wrote. Another said, “In the tourism commercial, she is wearing what is appropriate for that culture. You should be proud of someone who can go to any country and be respectful.”
Others noted that both actors have previously been seen visiting religious sites across faiths. “The same Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh for Siddhivinayak temple, by the way. Mosque is a worship place just like a temple, so obviously she would wear clothes appropriately,” one user posted.
Campaign details
On Monday, Abu Dhabi’s tourism authorities announced that Deepika Padukone has joined Ranveer Singh as the regional brand ambassador of Experience Abu Dhabi. The announcement was made alongside the release of the advertisement.
“Abu Dhabi is the ultimate family hotspot… I now get to experience this journey with my wife, who joins in as a brand ambassador, Deepika,” Ranveer Singh said in a statement.
To this, Padukone added, “Travel is always more meaningful when it is with the people you love… I cannot wait to travel, explore, and experience everything this beautiful city has to offer.”
While the campaign was intended as a celebration of travel and culture, it has also become a talking point about cultural sensitivity, choice, and respect. Despite the social media backlash, many have described the advertisement as “elegant” and “regal,” with several calling the controversy unnecessary.