Dubai, the vibrant and cosmopolitan city in the United Arab Emirates, is known for its rich culture and traditions. One of the most fascinating aspects of Dubai’s culture is its traditional dress.
The traditional dress in Dubai reflects the region’s history, climate, and cultural values. In this article, we will explore the different elements that make up the traditional dress in Dubai.
The Traditional Male Dress: Kandura
The traditional male dress in Dubai is called a kandura, also known as a thobe or dishdasha. It is a long white robe that reaches down to the ankles.
The color white is preferred as it helps to reflect sunlight and keep the wearer cool in the hot desert climate.
The kandura is typically made of lightweight fabric such as cotton or linen. It features long sleeves and a loose fit to allow for ease of movement.
The collarless design signifies humility and simplicity, which are highly valued traits in Emirati culture.
In addition to providing comfort, the kandura also serves as a symbol of national identity. It is often worn during important occasions and celebrations such as weddings or religious festivals.
The Traditional Female Dress: Abaya
For women, the traditional dress in Dubai is called an abaya. The abaya is a loose-fitting black cloak that covers the entire body except for the hands and face.
It is often worn over regular clothing to maintain modesty.
The abaya comes in various designs ranging from simple to intricately embroidered styles. Despite being predominantly black, it can be adorned with colorful embellishments or be made from luxurious fabrics like silk or velvet for special occasions.
One of the distinguishing features of the abaya is its elegant and flowing Silhouette. It is designed to be comfortable, allowing women to move freely while maintaining their cultural and religious values.
Accessories
To complete the traditional dress in Dubai, both men and women often wear specific accessories.
For Men:
- Ghutra: This is a square-shaped headscarf that is worn on top of the kandura. It is typically made of cotton or silk and comes in various colors, with white being the most common.
- Igal: The igal is a black cord that is worn on top of the ghutra to secure it in place.
It adds a touch of elegance to the overall look.
- Khanjar: Some men may also wear a traditional curved dagger called a khanjar as a decorative accessory. However, this is less common in modern times.
For Women:
- Sheyla: The sheyla is a lightweight scarf that covers the head and sometimes drapes over the shoulders. It can be plain or adorned with embroidery or sequins.
- Niqab: Some women choose to wear a niqab, which covers the face, leaving only the eyes visible. This serves as an additional layer of modesty for those who prefer it.
- Hijab Pins: To secure their sheylas or scarves in place, women often use decorative hijab pins that come in various designs and colors.
In conclusion, Dubai’s traditional dress showcases both modesty and elegance. The kandura for men and abaya for women are not just clothing items but representations of cultural identity and values. By understanding and appreciating these traditional dresses, we gain a deeper insight into the rich heritage of Dubai and its people.