The abaya is more than just clothing; it’s a powerful statement of elegance, culture, and personal style. In the UAE, abaya fashion evolves faster than ever, moving far beyond the traditional black robe. Designers are blending classic modesty with modern silhouettes, bold colors, and stunning details.
Want to refresh your wardrobe or just stay ahead of the curve? Here are the top abaya trends dominating the streets of Dubai and Abu Dhabi right now.
1. The Reign of the Open Abaya (The Ultimate Layering Piece)
If there’s one piece defining modern Emirati style, it’s the Open Abaya.
Forget the buttoned-up robe; this style is essentially a gorgeous, flowing kimono or cardigan. It’s a versatile fashion tool that allows for incredible personalization.
The Trend: Wearing the abaya open over a chic internal outfit. How to Wear It: Pair it with a monochrome inner slip dress, tailored trousers, or a clean white shirt and jeans. For a structured look, cinch the waist with a subtle belt or an elaborate sash. Why it’s Popular: It offers comfort, movement, and a chance to show off your curated modest outfit underneath, proving that modesty is synonymous with high fashion.
2. Color is the New Black
While the classic black abaya will always be essential, color is having a massive moment. Modern abaya collections are bursting with rich, unexpected hues.
Trending Colors:
- Earth Tones: Think deep olive green, beige, taupe, and camel. These colors are perfect for daytime casual wear and offer a sophisticated, muted elegance.
- Rich Jewels: For evening events, look for fabrics in deep navy blue, emerald green, and burgundy. These shades bring a luxurious, high-end feel, especially when paired with silky textures.
- Soft Pastels: Light pinks, mauves, and soft blues are trending for a gentle, feminine touch, especially popular during Ramadan and Eid celebrations.
3. Beyond Basic: Texture and Embellishment
The biggest trend is focusing on the details. Modern abayas are being elevated from simple garments to wearable pieces of art through embroidery, unique cuts, and mixed textures.
- Statement Sleeves: Look for sleeves that make an impact. This includes batwing (butterfly) cuts, exaggerated cuffs, and sleeves adorned with subtle ruffles or pleats.
- Intricate Embroidery: Hand-stitched embroidery, often in gold or metallic thread, is no longer reserved just for the hem. It now runs along the lapel, down the back, or creates stunning floral patterns on the sleeves, adding dimension and luxury.
- Mixed Fabrics: Designers are combining different materials—like pairing sheer chiffon panels with opaque Nida, or adding satin accents to a matte crepe—to create depth and a modern, high-fashion silhouette.
4. Comfort First: The Rise of Breathable Fabrics
Given the UAE’s hot climate, comfort is non-negotiable. This season sees a strong preference for fabrics that are luxurious yet highly breathable.
| Fabric Trend | Why It’s Hot | Best For |
| Nida | Soft, flowy, and wrinkle-resistant. The most popular choice for everyday luxury. | Daily Wear, Office |
| Linen | Incredibly lightweight and breathable; the perfect natural fiber for high summer heat. | Casual Outings, Travel |
| Chiffon | Airy and elegant; often used in layered styles for a beautiful, flowing drape. | Semi-Formal, Evenings |
| Crepe | Smooth texture that drapes cleanly and resists sticking to the skin in humidity. | Business, Polished Look |
Pro Tip: For maximum coolness, choose a lightweight abaya in a light color (like beige or pastel) made from linen or chiffon during peak summer months.
5. The Kimono & Bisht Silhouette
While the A-line is classic, two specific silhouettes are dominating the high-fashion scene:
- The Kimono Abaya: Characterized by wide, open fronts and oversized sleeves. This silhouette is flattering and incredibly comfortable, giving a relaxed but chic urban vibe.
- The Bisht Abaya: Inspired by the traditional men’s cloak, the Bisht is known for its dramatic, oversized, and flowing shape. It has a regal look, often worn for special occasions, and offers maximum flow and coverage without being restrictive.
The abaya scene in the UAE proves that tradition and trends can walk hand-in-hand. Whether you choose a minimalist Nida design or a heavily embroidered satin piece, the key is finding a style that feels authentically you. Happy shopping!
What’s Your Favorite Trend? Let us know in the comments!
