Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Natasa puts on the abaya before we enter the mosque. As we have just learned, the abays is the traditional garment of Emirati women. An elegant, loose fitting, flowing black cloak. The abaya is always worn over other clothing. Under the cloak, women wear traditional or Western clothing. The dark cloak also helps to conceal light-colored clothing. Although cotton and linen are used to suit the hot desert climate, the most popular material for abayas is crepe. The abaya is not a garment worn exclusively by Emirati women. Most of the Islamic world, including North Africa and Asia, has adopted the abaya as part of their Islamic customs. The abaya covers all parts of the body, from the neck to the buttocks, except for the feet and palms.Read more