Muslim women's clothing – what is its name and significance?

Traditional Muslim clothing for women

Traditional Muslim clothing has its roots in Islamic culture and traditions. It is not just about fashion, but about observing the rules of modesty described in the holy book, the Quran. The verses command: “Tell your wives, your daughters, and the women of the believers to lower their gaze and cover themselves with their garments.” The purpose of such clothing is to prevent women from attracting the attention of strange men, while at the same time protecting their purity and dignity. In Muslim culture, a traditional Muslim woman covers her entire body from her hair, through her neck, shoulders, and ears, down to her legs. The exact appearance of a Muslim woman's clothing depends on her region of origin, local customs, and degree of religiosity.

It is worth noting that different forms of dress are required in different Islamic countries. In some countries, women wear only a headscarf (hijab), while in others, long robes such as the abaya or chador are also mandatory. In yet other places, the niqab or burqa, which completely cover the face, are common. Today, traditional clothing is also an element of cultural identity and a conscious choice—some women treat it as an expression of religiosity, while others see it as a symbol of belonging to their community and pride in their origins.

What is the name of Muslim women's clothing?

There is no single universal name. Muslim women's clothing takes various forms and has various names:

• Hijab - the most popular head covering for Muslim women. It covers the hair, ears, and neck, but leaves the face uncovered. It often comes in the form of two scarves, such as al amira (a simple scarf consisting of two parts).
• Abaya - a long, loose robe covering the entire body from the shoulders to the feet.
• Niqab - covers the face, leaving only the eyes exposed.
• Chador - a traditional garment particularly popular in Iran, which covers the body and the entire head, although the hair can be slightly exposed.
• Burka - the most covering garment, which tightly covers the entire body, including the face. The woman looks through a mesh at eye level.

Each of these head and body coverings serves a similar purpose, protecting the modesty of women in public spaces, in accordance with the rules of Muslim dress.

How does an abaya differ from a niqab?

At first glance, an abaya and a niqab may seem similar, which is why many people often confuse them. In reality, however, they serve completely different functions and differ in appearance.

An abaya is a traditional garment resembling a long, usually black dress that covers the body from the shoulders to the feet. However, it does not cover the face, so it is usually worn in combination with a hijab or other head covering. The abaya not only has a practical dimension, protecting the body from prying eyes and the sun, but also a symbolic one, emphasizing the values of modesty. Today, abayas can also be an expression of style: decorated with embroidery, lace, or modern cuts, they are a combination of tradition and fashion.

The niqab, on the other hand, is an item of clothing designed to cover the face, leaving only the eyes visible. In many Arab countries, it is worn together with an abaya, completely covering the body and face. For some women, the niqab has a deep religious significance, while for others it is primarily an expression of attachment to local culture or tradition.

In summary, the abaya covers the body, while the niqab covers the face. Although both items are often worn together, they serve different purposes and have different practical and symbolic meanings.

Do all women in Dubai wear the hijab?

The attire of Muslim women in the UAE differs from what can be seen in Saudi Arabia, for example. There is greater freedom in Dubai, and not all women cover their heads. Although the hijab, abaya, niqab, and chador are present there, many women, especially female tourists, are not required to wear them.

Islamic fashion in Dubai combines tradition with modernity. Local women often choose elegant abayas decorated with embroidery or crystals, which shows that Muslim clothing is not always uniform and austere. There are different approaches to the rules - some Muslim women wear traditional clothing, while others allow themselves to slightly reveal their hair.

It is worth noting that different standards apply in different Muslim countries. In Saudi Arabia, the requirement to wear an abaya and cover the face has been very restrictive for years. In the UAE and Qatar, on the other hand, there is more freedom, and religious Muslim women themselves choose the most appropriate way to wear their clothing.

The article “What is life like for women in Dubai” gives an insight into the everyday reality of women in this city, debunking stereotypes and showing both the opportunities and challenges they face. It provides a better understanding of how tradition and modernity combine in the professional and private lives of women here.

Muslim women's clothing - between tradition and modernity

So, we can see that traditional Muslim women dress according to religious rules, but in the Arab world, women's clothing is evolving. Islamic culture provides the basis, but there are differences between individual Arab and Muslim countries. Some women cover their entire head, others only their hair, and still others wear veils in certain situations.

The important thing is that, contrary to stereotypes, its appearance does not have to be monotonous. Islamic fashion in Dubai and other metropolises shows that Muslim women's clothing combines respect for tradition with modern trends.

Organize a trip to Dubai with Two Continents and learn about the life and customs of the locals.

Questions and answers

1. What is the name of the traditional Muslim dress?

The traditional Muslim dress is the hijab, a scarf that covers the hair, neck, and often the shoulders, but leaves the face uncovered. In some cultures, other forms of dress are also found, such as the niqab (which covers the face except for the eyes) or the burqa (which covers the entire body, including the face).

2. What does the hijab mean and when is it worn?

The hijab expresses modesty and is a sign of a Muslim woman's belonging and faith. It is usually worn after reaching adulthood, in the company of unrelated men, and outside the home.

3. Does Muslim clothing have religious or cultural significance?

Muslim women's clothing is mainly related to religion, as it is based on Islamic principles of modesty and appropriate appearance. At the same time, its shape and way of wearing vary depending on the region and customs, which also gives it cultural significance.

4. How is Islamic fashion changing in Dubai?

Islamic fashion in Dubai is a combination of tradition and modern inspiration. Women still wear abayas and hijabs, but they are increasingly turning to modern variations - richly decorated, colorful, or created by renowned designers. The city stands out for its openness to global trends that remain consistent with the principle of modesty. As a result, Dubai is considered an important center of Muslim fashion.