Dubai is renown across the world for its sky-scraping new skyscrapers, opulent lifestyle, and global cosmopolitan society.
But above all the bling and the beauty lies a rich culture heritage, and one of the most exterior manifestations of it is conventional Emirati attire.
Conventional attire in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a statement of pride, modesty, heritage, and climate resilience.
This travel guide is a detailed examination of the dress of Dubai and the UAE—what the natives wear.
How the traditional apparel has evolved over time, and what visitors should be aware of when dressing modestly during their travels.
Traditional Dress of the UAE
Emirati fashion has a rich heritage as well and is strongly associating with Islamic teachings, Bedouin lifestyle, and desert climate.
Even with modernization, UAE nationals pride themselves on wearing clothes, and traditional dress is still being worn on a daily basis, particularly in the public and official arena.
Traditional attire focuses on:
- Modesty and decency
- Climate-friendly design
- Tribal and cultural identity
- National pride and unity
While the core pieces haven’t shifted, new interpretations of classic garments have grown trendier, more opulent, and character-revealing.
UAE Traditional Dresses for Men
Traditional Emirati men’s clothing consists of a mix of items that are both practical for the desert climate and follow Islamic principles of modesty.
1. Kandura (otherwise referred to as Dishdashi or Thobe)
The Emirati Kanduras are a male traditional wear mostly white in color, but are available in more colors such as beige and brown. It is also known as Thawb in Saudi Arabia.
- A tunic that goes down to the ankles, typically white in appearance.
- Made of lightweight cotton or wool, perfect for use in warm climates.
- In winter, the men may opt for dark color such as gray, beige, or brown.
- Regional differences: UAE kandura possesses a traditional embroidered collar and will not normally feature the front buttons employed within the kanduras of other Gulf nations.
2. Ghutra (Headscarf)
The Ghutra is a type of headdress for men as a form of traditional outfit. It is a square piece of scarf, to cover their head and face with it from the scorching heat of desert.
- Triangular-fold cloth worn to cover the head.
- Available in white (plain) or red-and-white checkered.
- Protects from sun, dust, and wind.
3. Agal
An agal is a black rope-like placed on the head in order to keep the ghutra in place properly. It is like an enormous circular band folding in the form of two rings.
- Black string tied over ghutra to secure it.
- Symbolizes tradition and authority.
4. Bisht (Ceremonial Cloak)
Also known as the ‘wings of the Arab.’ They are used for thousands of years, Bisht are worn across all Arab countries.
- Lightweight draped cloak in cloth, typically in black, brown, or cream.
- Decorated with gold embroidery, and worn over the kandura on special occasions such as weddings, Eid, or official functions.
UAE Traditional Women Dresses
UAE traditional women dress is graceful, humble, and exquisitely expressive, blending religious tradition with fashion-friendly design.
1. Abaya
The traditional outfit of Abaya is an elegant, loose-fitting and flowing black cloak that is worn over other clothes.
- A black long cloak that covers everyday clothing.
- Typically made up of lace, sequins, pearls, or embroidery to make it stylish.
- Contemporary abayas are both fashion statements and traditional wear.
2. Shyla
The shayla is a black, loose scarf that drapes around the head and covers the hair along with it.
- Light shoulder and head covering.
- May be loose or wrapped close, depending on the occasion or wish.
3. Hijab
The hijab is basically an umbrella term of different headdress worn by all Muslim women, the hijab covers the hair and the neck.
- Name for head cover for Muslim women.
- Everyday Emirati excursions by the majority of women are undertaken in shyla + abaya.
4. Niqab (optional)
A niqab is like a veil worn over the faces of Muslim women, that has open area around the eyes to have a clear vision.
- Covers the face but not the eyes.
- Voluntary and not mandatory in the UAE.
5. Jalabiya
Also known as a Kaftan, they are highly decorated and embroidered outfit, similar to a Kandura of men.
- A long flowing robe for indoor or special use.
- Gold thread or beads are utilized to ornament them.
6. Burqa
A burqa is a face veil, that covers the face except the eyes. They are available in different colors to match the overall outfit.
- Burqa offers fullest coverage.
- Conceals the entire face and body.
- Has a mesh screen to allow limited vision.
7. Henna & Accessories
Henna is an inseparable part of the Emirati culture for women. It is a plant-based dye that is used to tattoo the hands of women, but of course it is a semi-permanent dye.
- Emirati women enjoy using hands and feet to decorate them with henna patterns which are applied during Eid and marriages.
- Gold jewelry, especially chunky earrings and bangles, are also used traditionally.
What to Wear in Dubai for Tourists?
Dubai is more liberal than the rest of the Gulf but remains modest and respectful in terms of culture, especially in public.
There is no dress code for most tourist sites, but being respectful of the customs makes the journey more comfortable and respectful.
1. Hotels, Restaurants, and Malls
- Western casual attire is acceptable.
- Men: T-shirts, collared shirts, jeans, knee or long shorts.
- Women: Dresses, jeans, tops—but no see-through tops, topless tops, or mini skirts.
- It is thoughtful for women to wear a shawl or scarf for instant cover-up when needed.
2. Swimming Pools and Water Parks
- Swimwear acceptable at hotels, beaches, and resorts.
- Bikinis are acceptable where beaches have been cordoned off, but no topless sunbathing.
- Always cover up when approaching and leaving beach/pool area.
3. Traditional Markets, Mosques, and Rural Areas
- Modest dress is a must.
- Women: Cover shoulders and knees; a headscarf is often required in mosques.
- Men: Avoid sleeveless tops and short shorts.
- For mosques, attire will usually be provided if you’re not appropriately dressed.
4. Desert Safari
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes.
- Long pants, lightweight tops, and closed shoes are best for sand activities.
- Evenings can be chilly, so pack a light sweater or shawl.
- Don’t miss sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen).
Solo Women Travelers: Dress Tips
Dubai has been rated as one of the safest cities in the world for solo women, and locals in general are nice and respectful. Some tips to remember:
- Modesty is valued, especially in older or conservative societies.
- Dress modestly rather than too fashionably or tight-fitting in public.
- All but most venues provide ladies-only areas (gym, spas, transport areas).
Modern vs Traditional: The Fashion Fusion in Dubai
Young Emirati individuals nowadays blend heritage and fashion to create new fusions:
- Abayas with designer cuts or adorned with Swarovski crystals.
- Men dressing up kanduras with luxury watches or designer sandals.
- National dress fusion for national events and international fashion shows.
Many fashion brands—both local and international—are tapping into this unique intersection of tradition and trend, which defines Dubai’s fashion DNA.
Where Can Tourists Buy Traditional UAE Clothing?
Visitors interested in purchasing or trying traditional Emirati clothing can explore:
- Souks (Traditional Markets): Great for authentic finds and bargaining.
- Shopping malls (e.g., Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates): Most of the contemporary boutiques sell luxury abayas and kanduras.
- Traditional dress-up centers: Provide try-ons and posing in traditional attire.
When is Traditional Clothing Most Often Worn?
While most Emiratis wear traditional attire every day, it is seen most frequently on:
- Eid Celebrations
- Friday Prayers
- Weddings
- National Day (December 2)
- Heritage and cultural events
Dressing Up In Tradition!
UAE national dress is not just traditional culture—it is a living tradition that bears witness to religion, identity, and pride.
To hold dear a stunning black abaya embroidery in gold or a white kandura billowing in desert sunlight is to gaze on centuries of heritage sewn into contemporary life.
For tourists, Dubai’s dress code is not just a mark of respect for the culture—it’s also an intensifier for your own travel experience. When arranging for the mosque tour, bazaar walk, or pre-desert safari, being knowledgeable about and attentive to traditional Emirati attire enables you to connect with the UAE on a fuller, more substantial level.
