Kandura – what is this traditional costume and who wears it?

What is a kandura dubai and what is it used for?

What does a kandura look like? A kandura is a popular, long robe reaching down to the ankles, made of light, breathable fabric, which ensures comfort in the hot climate of the UAE. In everyday life, it is worn in white, while during special celebrations it can be found in cream, pastel or lightly decorated colours. Its simple design combines elegance with functionality, and thanks to its wide sleeves and loose fit, it allows freedom of movement in the heat.

During the holy month of Ramadan, the kandura is often associated with traditional rituals such as serving Arabic coffee, which emphasises the hospitable nature of the garment and its role in everyday social life.

The kandura is often compared to the Dubai thobe or Emirati galabeya, but locally it has distinctive details such as inserts at the neck and delicate stitching at the cuffs. These subtle differences distinguish it from similar garments in other countries in the region.

Who wears the kandura in Dubai and the UAE?

The kandura is worn mainly by Muslim men, both local citizens and some Arabs visiting the city. The garment serves as a cultural identifier, strongly emphasising belonging to the local community, religion and respect for tradition. The national costumes of the United Arab Emirates are a symbol of national pride, and the kandura, combined with appropriate accessories such as the gutra and agal, allows for both elegance and practicality. Men's clothing in the UAE is therefore not only functional but also a symbolic part of everyday life, combining modernity with historical heritage.

In everyday use, the kandura is suitable for work, business meetings and public spaces. Depending on the family, state or religious celebrations, more decorative models are chosen, often complemented with embroidery, embellishments or additional accessories, which emphasise the importance of the event and the status of the wearer.

And if you are interested in local holidays and customs in Dubai, see our article Eid in Dubai to learn how celebrations are held in this region of the world.

What is a kandura made of – a popular garment in Arab countries

The kandura, the traditional male garment of the UAE, is usually made of lightweight fabric such as cotton or silk, which allows the body to breathe and provides comfort even in the high temperatures of the Middle East. The garment usually covers the entire body and has long sleeves, which protects the skin from excessive sun exposure and reduces the risk of sunstroke. Lightweight trousers are often worn underneath, and the head and hair are covered with a gutra, protecting the hair and neck from the heat. In addition, sandals complete the outfit, and its appearance is neat and elegant, allowing the man to walk comfortably all day, even in high temperatures, often with the addition of a turban during ceremonies or in more formal situations.

The tradition of Arab clothing: colours, styles and uses of the kandura

The colours and styles of the kandura vary from classic white to muted creams, greys and pastels. The white kandura is a symbol of culture and simplicity, which is why it is most often chosen for everyday wear, while shades other than white or models with subtle decorations appear on special occasions such as weddings, state ceremonies or religious events.

Everyday and festive kanduras also differ in the quality of the material and the finish. Everyday versions are light, airy and resistant to frequent washing, making them ideal for the hot climate of the Emirates. Ceremonial kanduras, on the other hand, are made of more expensive fabrics, often with delicate embroidery or decorative inserts that emphasise the status of the wearer and the importance of the event.

In Arab culture, traditional ceremonial attire combines functionality with aesthetics, allowing men to remain elegant and comfortable even in the high temperatures characteristic of the region. In addition, the appropriate colour, style and accessories help to respect local customs, emphasising the importance of the occasion and expressing attachment to cultural identity.

If you want to learn more about the culture and traditional clothing in the region, check out our post on Where is the United Arab Emirates? Location Guide and how local customs affect everyday life.

Kandura accessories and traditional outfits of the United Arab Emirates

The outfit is complemented by kandura accessories – the gutra and agal, which hold the garment on the head and give the entire outfit its distinctive look. The gutra is a light scarf, and the agal is a black cord or band that holds it in place. Together, they form an elegant set for both everyday use and family or state celebrations.

Thanks to these accessories, the kandura becomes a complete outfit that not only fulfils practical functions but also aesthetic ones. Wearing a kandura in combination with a gutra and agal is also an expression of respect for tradition and local customs.

When wearing a kandura on a daily basis, it is also important to choose the right footwear to complement the outfit and ensure comfort.

Differences between the kandura, thobe and galabeya in Arab countries

Although the terms thobe Dubai, galabeya Emirates and kandura are sometimes used interchangeably, there are subtle differences in cut and how they are worn. How does the kandura differ from the thobe or galabeya? Thobe is a broader term covering similar garments throughout the Persian Gulf region, galabeya is a looser garment worn in various Arab countries, while kandura, characteristic of the Emirates, is distinguished by its details, sleeve length and simple, elegant cut.

Knowing these differences is important for tourists who want to understand local customs and correctly interpret traditional clothing when observing Emiratis in everyday situations or when visiting historic districts of the city.

Where can you buy traditional clothing in Dubai?

Kanduras can be purchased at local boutiques, shopping centres and traditional souks, where a variety of styles, colours and materials are available – from light, airy everyday fabrics to thicker and more decorative materials intended for celebrations. Shops often also offer accessories for the kandura – gutra, as well as agal, a black band that holds the headscarf in place, allowing you to complete the traditional male outfit. This allows both residents and visitors to match their outfit to the occasion, maintaining an authentic look and respecting local customs.

When planning your purchase, it is worth combining a visit to the boutiques with exploring the local attractions of Dubai, as well as ensuring a comfortable stay by choosing the right accommodation in Dubai. This will allow you to shop and sightsee at your leisure and in complete comfort.

Clothing with cultural significance in Arab countries

Although the kandura may seem exotic to many people, this sight is becoming increasingly common in Europe, where Arabs from countries such as Saudi Arabia travel for tourism, business or family reasons. Remember that wearing this garment is not just a matter of fashion – it is deeply rooted in tradition and religion, and its form, colours and manner of wearing have cultural significance. It is important for tourists and residents of other countries to show respect and maintain an appropriate attitude towards people wearing Arab clothing.

For more practical information on customs, traditions and everyday life in the Emirates, visit Two Continents, which offers reliable guides and advice for those planning to visit the region.

Questions and answers - FAQ

• What are the colours and types of kandura?

The kandura is mainly white, but for special occasions there are also cream, grey and pastel versions; there are everyday models and ceremonial ones made of more expensive materials and finishes.

• Is the kandura only for men?

Yes, traditionally kanduras are worn only by men, while women wear abayas or other traditional Arab clothing.

• How is a kandura worn in everyday life in the Emirates?

In everyday use, kanduras are worn at work, business meetings and in public spaces; the models are light, airy and comfortable, suited to the local climate.

• What accessories accompany the kandura?

The kandura is most often accompanied by a gutra (headscarf) and an agal (black band that holds the gutra in place), and in formal versions, embroidery, decorative buttons or belts may be added.