Made-to-measure abayas for UAE customers

The style choices to describe

Abayas come in many shapes. These are general descriptions to help you explain what you want; send a photo too, and we confirm what is possible on your fabric and design.

• Closed front: pulled on over the head or fastened at the neck, a clean and simple line.
• Open front: worn like a long coat over an outfit, sometimes with a belt or a few fastenings.
• Butterfly style: cut very wide, so the fabric falls from the arms in wing-like drapes.
• Kimono or wide-sleeve styles: straight body with broad sleeves, easy to wear and cool in the heat.
• Fitted or flared: a narrower line through the body, or more flare towards the hem.

What to measure

Length is the measurement that matters most, and the one that ready-made abayas most often get wrong. Measure from the top of the shoulder, beside the neck, down to where you want the hem, wearing the shoes you will wear with it. Add your bust, hip and shoulder width, sleeve length from the shoulder point to the wrist, and the upper arm. Our size guide shows how to take each one, and the body vs garment measurements page explains why we ask for your body measurements rather than a finished size.

If you already own an abaya with a length or sleeve you like, measure it flat and add those figures to your notes.

Fabric for UAE weather

Abaya fabrics are commonly lightweight crepes, georgettes and smooth woven synthetics, chosen for their drape and because they resist creasing. In UAE heat, lighter weights and looser cuts are more comfortable, and a wider sleeve lets air in. With Fabric + Stitching, tell us the colour, weight and drape you want, and we share photos and a description with your quote. Nothing is cut until you approve it.

Bought fabric already, perhaps from a market in Deira or Sharjah? Stitching Only for the UAE lets you send it to us in Pakistan once we have confirmed from your photos that it is suitable and that there is enough. Our guide to photographing fabric for a quote helps.

Details to ask for in your quote

These are all things to request rather than assume; your written quote confirms each one.

• Pockets in the side seams, which many women find useful.
• Sleeve cuffs with a snap or button, to keep sleeves down when you reach.
• Embroidery at a delicate, detailed or statement level, or lace and borders on the sleeves and hem.
• A matching inner dress, trousers or scarf quoted together with the abaya.
• A nursing-friendly opening, if you need one.

Ordering from the UAE

Choose Abaya on the UAE quote form, add your photo or description and your measurements, and say whether you want our fabric or yours. You receive a written quote in US dollars, euros or pounds sterling, including delivery to your address and any customs duty, VAT and courier fees. Once you approve and pay in full, we make the abaya in 5 to 7 working days, and courier time follows. More on ordering from the Emirates is on our UAE page.