When you walk through the streets of the United Arab Emirates, you’ll see sleek modern buildings, shiny cars, and people from all over the world. But in the middle of all this modern life, you’ll also see something very traditional — the UAE national dress. It’s not just about fashion. It’s about history, culture, and identity.
Let’s take a closer look at the traditional dress of the UAE — what it is, why it matters, and how it continues to stay strong in the hearts of Emiratis today.
A Look at the Emirati Men’s Dress
The traditional dress for Emirati men is called the kandura (also known as dishdasha or thobe). It’s a long white robe that reaches the ankles. It looks simple, but it carries a lot of meaning.
The kandura is designed for comfort in the hot desert climate. It’s usually made from cotton or a cotton-blend material, which keeps the wearer cool. Most kanduras are white, especially in the summer. But in cooler months or special occasions, some men wear them in shades of brown, grey, or even black.
Men also wear a ghutra or shemagh on their heads — a square scarf that can be folded and styled in different ways. It’s held in place by a black cord called the agal. The ghutra protects the head and face from the sun and sand, and each fold and color can sometimes represent tribal heritage or regional style.
What Emirati Women Wear
For Emirati women, the traditional dress is just as meaningful. The main outfit is the abaya, a long, black cloak worn over regular clothes. It is both modest and elegant, often decorated with subtle embroidery or beadwork. Some abayas are plain, while others are designed with fashion in mind — blending tradition with personal style.
Women also wear a shayla, a lightweight scarf used to cover the head. Some may choose to wear the niqab, which covers part or all of the face. While the abaya is usually black, the clothes underneath can be colorful and patterned, showing off the woman’s personal taste and creativity.
In the past, Emirati women also wore a special garment called the burqa — not to be confused with the full-body burqa found in other cultures. The Emirati burqa is a shiny, metallic-looking mask that covers the eyebrows and nose bridge. Today, it’s mostly worn by older women and during cultural events.
The Dress Reflects Culture and Identity
Traditional dress in the UAE is not just about staying cool or looking good. It is a strong symbol of national identity. Emiratis are proud of their heritage, and the way they dress is one of the most visible signs of that pride.
Even though many Emiratis live modern lives, the national dress remains an important part of their day-to-day clothing. It’s worn to work, school, the mosque, and formal events. And while Western clothes are popular among the younger generation, you’ll still see teenagers wearing kanduras and abayas, especially on Fridays, holidays, or family gatherings.
The Role of Modesty
Another key reason for the traditional clothing is modesty, which is deeply connected to Islamic values. Both the kandura and abaya are loose-fitting, covering most of the body. This shows respect for religious traditions while also encouraging humility and dignity.
At the same time, the clothing is not meant to hide someone’s identity or personality. Many young Emiratis are finding ways to make the traditional dress more fashionable — for example, by choosing stylish fabrics, embroidery, or colors for special occasions.
Evolution Over Time
While the basic design of the UAE’s traditional dress has remained the same, it has also changed in small ways over the years.
In the past, kanduras were stitched by hand, and each region had its own style. Today, they are made in factories and tailored to suit personal preferences. Some men prefer shorter collars, cuffed sleeves, or different buttons. The use of perfumes and scented oils on the kandura is also common, giving it a fresh and elegant feel.
For women, modern abayas now come in many styles — open-front, flowy sleeves, modern cuts — and often include designer touches. Local fashion designers have helped bring new life to this traditional piece, turning it into a modern fashion statement without losing its original meaning.
Traditional Dress at Special Events
During important national celebrations like UAE National Day, Eid, or heritage festivals, you’ll see traditional dress on full display. Some people even wear more historical styles, such as embroidered kanduras or heavily decorated abayas.
Young children are often dressed in traditional Emirati clothes for school events and family photos, helping them connect with their culture from a young age.
At weddings and big family events, it’s common to see both men and women dressed in elegant versions of traditional clothes. Some grooms wear bishts, a ceremonial cloak worn over the kandura, often made of silk or wool with gold trim. It shows honor and adds a royal touch to their look.
What Tourists and Expats Should Know
The UAE is a diverse place, with people from all over the world. Visitors and expats are not expected to wear traditional dress, but they are encouraged to dress modestly in public places.
During events like Ramadan or national festivals, tourists may enjoy wearing traditional clothing to take part in the celebrations. Many shops offer rental or ready-to-wear kanduras and abayas for visitors who want to experience local culture respectfully.
It’s always appreciated when foreigners show interest in Emirati traditions, especially when done in a respectful way.
A Tradition That Lives On
In today’s world, where styles change quickly, the UAE’s traditional dress stands strong. It’s more than just clothing — it’s a symbol of culture, pride, and identity. Even with modern influences, Emiratis continue to embrace their traditional dress, showing that it’s possible to respect the past while living in the present.
As the country continues to grow and change, one thing is clear: the kandura and abaya are not going anywhere. They are a proud reminder of where the UAE has come from — and where it’s going next.
Also read: Haq Al Lailah – A Night of Joy and Tradition in the UAE
