Have you ever admired the elegant flow of an abaya, the crisp simplicity of a kandura, or the intricate embroidery of a jalabiya, and wondered where one might find such authentic pieces in the UAE? Beyond being mere garments, traditional Emirati dresses embody a rich cultural heritage, reflecting centuries of desert life, Islamic values, and an innate sense of modesty and grace, and thankfully, the Emirates offer a vibrant array of places to acquire these beautiful ensembles.
The Essence of Emirati Traditional Dress
Before we delve into where to find these garments, it’s worth understanding the cultural significance and common types of traditional Emirati dresses for both men and women. These garments are not just clothing; they are symbols of identity, pride, and cultural continuity.
For Emirati women, the primary traditional dress is the Abaya. This is a loose, full-length outer garment, typically black, worn over regular clothes. While traditionally plain, modern abayas have evolved significantly, incorporating intricate embroidery, lace inserts, tailored cuts, and even splashes of color, blending classic aesthetics with contemporary trends. It’s a versatile piece, designed to offer modesty while allowing for personal expression. Underneath the abaya, women often wear a jalabiya or mukhawar. The jalabiya is a loose, ankle-length dress that can be highly decorated with vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and embellishments, often worn at home or for more casual gatherings with family and friends. The mukhawar is a specific type of traditional Emirati dress, often worn on special occasions, characterized by distinctive embroidery and the use of rich fabrics like silk or cotton. The embroidery on a mukhawar often holds regional significance, varying in patterns and colors. Another essential accessory for women is the sheila, a headscarf that covers the hair, usually made of light, flowing fabric.
For Emirati men, the quintessential traditional dress is the Kandura, also known as Dishdasha or Thawb. This is a long, ankle-length robe, typically white, though darker colors like brown or gray are worn in cooler months. The Emirati kandura is distinct from those in other Gulf countries; it’s characterized by its collarless design and a subtle, often matching embroidery on the sleeves. A unique feature is the “tarboosh” or “Al Farukhah,” a long, twisted tassel hanging from the neckline. Emirati men also wear a ghutra, a white or checkered headscarf (white for summer, red and white checkered for cooler weather), secured by an agal, a black cord worn to keep the ghutra in place. For formal occasions or during colder weather, men might also wear a bisht, a flowing outer cloak, often made of wool and intricately embroidered with gold or silver threads.
These traditional garments offer protection from the sun and heat, align with religious beliefs emphasizing modesty, and are a visual representation of Emirati heritage that continues to thrive in modern society.
Where to Shop for Traditional Emirati Dresses in Dubai
Dubai, with its blend of tradition and modernity, is an excellent place to find a wide range of traditional Emirati dresses, from everyday wear to bespoke designs for special occasions.
One of the most prominent destinations for women seeking abayas and other traditional attire is Abaya Mall in Mirdif. This mall is entirely dedicated to women’s traditional clothing, housing numerous shops that sell a vast selection of abayas, jalabiyas, and shailas. You can find everything from simple, elegant designs for daily use to elaborate, heavily embellished pieces perfect for weddings and Eid celebrations. The prices here are generally considered reasonable and affordable, making it a go-to spot for both locals and tourists looking for quality traditional wear. Shops like Miss Ribbon, Al Rida Al Wardi Trading, and Noir Chic within Abaya Mall are well-known for their diverse collections.
For a more curated and high-end experience, many standalone boutiques specialize in contemporary abaya designs that blend traditional styles with modern fashion trends. Brands like Hanayen (hanayen.com) are well-established in the UAE, offering luxurious abayas that feature intricate embroidery, crystal embellishments, and unique cuts. While they have physical stores in major malls, their online presence allows for easy Browse. These boutiques often cater to a clientele looking for designer quality and unique aesthetics.
The traditional souqs of Dubai also offer a unique shopping experience for traditional clothing. The Naif Souq in Deira, for instance, is famous for its textiles and readymade garments, where you can find a variety of abayas, jalabiyas, and fabrics to have custom pieces tailored. While it requires more patience to navigate, you can often find good bargains and unique, locally made items here. Similarly, the Global Village (globalvillage.ae), during its operational season (typically October to May), features pavilions from various countries, including the UAE pavilion, where you can find traditional garments, accessories, and often see artisans at work.
For men, stores specializing in kanduras can be found in most major malls and local shopping areas. These shops offer different fabrics, colors, and cuts of kanduras, along with ghutras and agals. Some popular shops include Al Fares Tailoring and Al Madani Tailoring. Tailors specializing in men’s traditional wear are also common, allowing for custom-fitted kanduras, which is preferred by many Emirati men for comfort and style. Online platforms also cater to this demand; for instance, The Kandura Store (https://www.google.com/search?q=thekandurastore.com) offers custom-made kanduras online, ensuring a perfect fit and high-quality materials.
Traditional Emirati Dress Shopping in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, also offers excellent opportunities to acquire traditional Emirati dresses, balancing luxury retail with more local and accessible options.
For women’s traditional wear, Hanayen (hanayen.com), a renowned brand with a strong presence in the UAE, has stores in prominent malls across Abu Dhabi. They are known for their exquisite collection of abayas, combining traditional elegance with modern designs and high-quality fabrics. You’ll find a range from everyday abayas to elaborate pieces adorned with crystals and delicate embroidery, suitable for special occasions. Their showrooms provide a comfortable environment for Browse their extensive collections.
Another excellent option for abayas and traditional wear in Abu Dhabi is Al Motahajiba. This brand is well-regarded for its stylish and modest collections, offering a fusion of classic and contemporary designs. They often have branches in major shopping centers, making them easily accessible. These stores emphasize quality fabrics and unique design elements, reflecting the evolving tastes while maintaining cultural authenticity.
For men, dedicated kandura shops are readily available in various shopping centers and local markets across Abu Dhabi. You can find both ready-to-wear kanduras and tailoring services for custom-made pieces. Many Emirati men prefer custom-tailored kanduras for the perfect fit and choice of fabric, especially considering that they might own many and change them frequently throughout the day to maintain a fresh look. Shops often provide a selection of fabrics (like cotton for summer and wool blends for winter), along with various styles of ghutras and agals. Look for smaller, independent tailors in areas like Mussafah or Khalifa City for potentially more competitive prices and personalized service, or larger specialized stores in malls for a wider selection.
For a more traditional shopping experience, exploring local markets and smaller textile shops in areas like Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre can also yield good finds. While not exclusively dedicated to traditional Emirati dresses, many shops in these areas stock abayas, jalabiyas, and fabrics that can be tailored into traditional wear. This approach can sometimes lead to more affordable options, especially if you buy fabric and get it tailored locally. Always confirm the quality of the fabric and the reputation of the tailor.
Online shopping also plays a significant role in Abu Dhabi’s traditional wear market. Websites like La Mode Patchouli (lamodepatchouli.com) offer a curated selection of women’s traditional dresses, including abayas and jalabiyas, designed for modern UAE women who honor their roots. These platforms provide convenience, allowing customers to browse and purchase from the comfort of their homes, with delivery services covering Abu Dhabi. The blend of physical stores, local markets, and online platforms ensures that residents and visitors in Abu Dhabi have ample choices for purchasing traditional Emirati dresses.
Finding Traditional Dresses Across Other Emirates
The appreciation for traditional Emirati dresses is deeply rooted across all seven Emirates, and while Dubai and Abu Dhabi host the largest selection, other Emirates offer their own unique spots, often with a more local flavor and competitive pricing.
In Sharjah, known as the cultural capital, you’ll find a strong emphasis on traditional attire. The Central Souq (also known as the Blue Souq) is an iconic landmark where you can explore numerous shops selling a variety of fabrics, abayas, shailas, and jalabiyas. It’s a fantastic place to haggle and find unique pieces, often at more affordable prices than in Dubai’s high-end malls. Smaller, independent boutiques and tailor shops are also scattered throughout residential areas of Sharjah, catering to the local community with custom-made and ready-to-wear options. For men’s traditional wear, shops specializing in kanduras are common in bustling areas like Al Qassimia or Al Nahda. Websites like Al Roken Clothes (alrokenstore.com) also provide online options for kanduras and accessories, with delivery services extending to Sharjah.
Ras Al Khaimah, combining historical charm with modern development, also provides several avenues for purchasing traditional Emirati dresses. Many smaller, family-run shops and tailoring businesses in areas like Al Nakheel and Al Qusaidat specialize in abayas, jalabiyas, and kanduras. These local establishments often offer personalized service and competitive pricing. For instance, First Choice Abaya or Kharaz Cloaks are examples of dedicated abaya shops. Resorts in Ras Al Khaimah, especially those catering to a local clientele, might also have small boutiques selling traditional wear. Online platforms that deliver across the UAE are also a convenient option for residents here.
In Fujairah, renowned for its natural beauty and more relaxed pace, you’ll find traditional clothing primarily in local markets and smaller garment shops. The Fujairah Souq or similar local markets will have vendors selling fabrics and ready-made traditional dresses. Independent tailoring shops are also crucial here, allowing for custom creation of abayas, jalabiyas, and kanduras. These often provide a more authentic and community-focused shopping experience. Online retailers that deliver throughout the UAE are also increasingly popular, providing more variety.
Ajman and Umm Al Quwain, being smaller Emirates, still offer specialized shops for traditional attire. In Ajman, the Ajman Souq is a good starting point for textiles and traditional garments. Additionally, specific areas within Ajman are known for their clusters of abaya shops. For instance, you can find a good selection of abaya and sheila shops like Azzah Abaya and Dar Lozan Abaya and Sheila which offer a range from trendy designs to classic styles. For men, bespoke tailors for kanduras are also common. In Umm Al Quwain, while options might be more limited, local textile shops and small boutiques cater to the demand for traditional wear. Relying on local recommendations or Browse online stores with UAE-wide delivery would be the most efficient approach in these quieter Emirates.
Across all Emirates, particularly for men’s kanduras, the distinction lies in subtle details like the collar style, sleeve cuffs, and the type of tarboosh, which can vary from region to region and even within families. Many locals will seek out tailors who understand these nuanced preferences.
Tips for Purchasing Traditional Emirati Dresses
Acquiring traditional Emirati dresses is more than just a transaction; it’s an opportunity to appreciate cultural artistry and often involves a unique shopping experience. Here are some tips to help you make the best purchase.
Consider the Occasion: The type of traditional dress you buy often depends on the occasion. For daily wear, women might opt for simpler abayas and jalabiyas made from comfortable fabrics like cotton. For special events like weddings, Eid, or formal gatherings, more elaborate, embroidered, or designer pieces are chosen. Similarly, men would wear lighter, simpler kanduras for everyday activities, while more formal occasions call for well-tailored, often crisper white kanduras, possibly with a bisht. Being clear about your needs will help narrow down your choices.
Fabric Choices Matter: The UAE’s climate plays a significant role in fabric selection. For the hot summer months (roughly May to September), lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen, light cotton, or crepes are preferred for abayas and kanduras. In the cooler winter months (roughly October to April), thicker cottons, wool blends, or even velvet might be used, especially for more formal abayas or heavier kanduras and bishts. Understanding this distinction will ensure your purchase is comfortable to wear.
Understand the Sizing: Traditional Emirati garments are often designed for a modest, flowing fit. For abayas and jalabiyas, sizes are typically based on length, but it’s crucial to try them on to ensure the desired drape and coverage. For kanduras, men often prefer a custom fit that allows for ease of movement while maintaining a crisp appearance. When buying off-the-rack, check the shoulder width and sleeve length. If buying online, consult sizing charts carefully and consider taking your measurements.
Authenticity vs. Modernity: The market offers both highly traditional pieces and modern interpretations. If you’re seeking a genuinely traditional aesthetic, look for local tailors or established shops that cater to Emirati clientele. If you prefer a contemporary twist on traditional garments, brands that incorporate modern designs, colors, and embellishments will be more suitable. The UAE Standards and Metrology Authority (ESMA) oversees various product standards, but for traditional wear, authenticity is often judged by the cut, fabric quality, and traditional embroidery patterns.
Bargaining at Souqs: If you’re shopping in traditional souqs like the Naif Souq in Dubai or the Central Souq in Sharjah, bargaining is a common practice. Don’t be shy to negotiate the price; it’s part of the cultural experience. However, in modern malls and fixed-price boutiques, prices are generally non-negotiable.
Custom Tailoring: For the perfect fit and unique design, especially for men’s kanduras or elaborate women’s jalabiyas, consider custom tailoring. Many local tailors specialize in traditional wear and can create a garment to your exact specifications, choosing your preferred fabric, color, and embellishments. This option often provides a higher quality and a more personalized result, although it will typically take a few days to a few weeks for completion.
The www.few.ae team knows that embracing traditional Emirati dress is a wonderful way to connect with the local culture and find truly unique pieces that blend heritage with elegance. Which type of traditional Emirati dress are you most excited to explore?
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