Buying guides by country · 4 October 2026 · 3 min read
Sizing from Saudi Arabia: why measurements beat sizes
Shop sizes in Saudi Arabia mix EU, UK, US and Asian charts, and abayas go by length. Why your own measurements work better, and how to take them at home.
InspirationWhy sizes are confusing in Saudi Arabia
Shopping for clothes in Saudi Arabia means juggling several sizing systems at once. International chains in the malls use European sizes, online orders arrive in UK or US sizes, Asian brands run smaller, Pakistani pret uses its own small, medium and large, and abayas are often sold simply by length. Your size can change by two or three steps between shops. Made to measure removes the guesswork: instead of choosing a size, you give us your body measurements, and the pattern is drafted from them.
This guide explains which measurements matter, how to take them at home, and how to use what you already own. For the ordering side, see our Saudi Arabia page.
Body measurements, not garment sizes
A size label describes a garment; your measurements describe you. We need the second, and we add the right amount of ease for the cut you choose. That is why you should not add extra centimetres yourself, and why a size from another chart cannot be converted reliably. Our article on UK, EU and US sizes for a kameez explains the problem, and body vs garment measurements shows the difference with examples.
The measurements we ask for
The quote form walks you through each one. The core set is:
- Bust, waist and hips, measured at the fullest or narrowest point with the tape level.
- Shoulder width, from shoulder point to shoulder point across the back.
- Armhole and upper arm, which decide whether the sleeve feels free or tight.
- Sleeve length, from the shoulder point to where you want the sleeve to end.
- Kameez length, from the top of the shoulder to the hem you want.
- Trouser waist, hip, length and ankle opening. Our trouser size guide shows each point.
Inches or centimetres
Either is fine, as long as you use one unit throughout. Tape measures sold in the Kingdom usually show both, so pick a side and stick to it. Write down every number before typing it in, and check any that look surprising. Our guide to measuring in inches or centimetres covers the common slips.
Measure over the light clothes you would normally wear underneath, not over a thick layer, and stand naturally rather than holding your breath. If your shape tends to change through the year, say so in your notes, and we can suggest a cut with a little more room, such as an A-line kameez with a drawstring trouser waist.
Using what already suits you
If you have a kameez whose length and sleeves you love, measure it flat and add those numbers in your notes; they tell us how you like clothes to sit. You can also choose to send a kameez that fits on the quote form, and we confirm how to send it before you post anything.
For abayas, the shop length is a useful starting point, but your full length measured from the shoulder in your usual shoes is more precise. Our guide to custom abayas for Saudi Arabia lists the abaya measurements.
Help and checks before cutting
If anything is unclear, ask for measuring help and we go through it with you step by step. We check anything that looks unusual before cutting, and the measurements are agreed in writing in your quote. If a finished outfit does not match the agreed measurements through our mistake, report it within seven days of delivery and we correct or remake it without charging for the work; you pay the postage both ways.
When your numbers are ready, start on the quote form for Saudi Arabia. If you are sending your own suit, our Stitching Only page for Saudi Arabia explains the steps.
Common questions
Can I just give you my usual dress size?
A size alone is not enough, because sizing systems vary so widely. We need your body measurements, and a size can be added in your notes as extra context.
Should I add room to my measurements for comfort?
No. Give your body measurements as they are and tell us how loose you like the fit. We add the ease for your chosen cut.
Can someone else measure me?
Yes, and it often gives more accurate results. Measure over light clothing, keep the tape level and snug but not tight, and use one unit throughout.
