Ajman

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Traditional Clothing

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Comprehensive Guide to Traditional Clothing in Ajman, United Arab Emirates

Ajman, one of the seven emirates of the UAE, is deeply rooted in Emirati culture and traditions, which are reflected in its traditional clothing. The attire worn by men and women in Ajman is not only a symbol of cultural identity but also designed to suit the region's climate and Islamic values. Below is a detailed guide to the traditional clothing in Ajman, including its cultural significance, materials, where to purchase or tailor them, costs, and practical tips for visitors or immigrants.

1. Traditional Clothing for Men

a. Key Garments

  1. Kandura (Dishdasha/Thobe):

    • A long, ankle-length robe, typically white, made from lightweight fabric to suit the hot climate.
    • White is the most common color, but during winter, darker shades like brown, grey, or blue are sometimes worn.
    • The kandura is collarless and features a tassel (called a "tarboosh" or "farooq") at the neckline, which is often scented with perfume.

  2. Ghutra and Egal:

    • Ghutra: A square or rectangular headscarf, usually white or checkered red and white (known as "shemagh").
    • Egal: A black cord used to secure the ghutra on the head.
    • The ghutra protects against the sun and sand and is a practical yet symbolic accessory.

  3. Bisht:

    • A flowing black or brown cloak with gold embroidery, worn over the kandura on formal occasions such as weddings, religious celebrations, or official events.

b. Cultural Significance

  • The kandura represents modesty, simplicity, and adherence to Islamic values.
  • The ghutra and egal are symbols of Emirati heritage and are often styled differently depending on the occasion or personal preference.

c. Materials Used

  • Lightweight cotton or polyester blends for the kandura.
  • Wool or cashmere for winter kanduras.
  • The bisht is often made from fine wool or camel hair with gold or silver embroidery.

d. Where to Purchase or Tailor

  • Local Markets and Souks:
    • Ajman’s souks, such as the Ajman Gold Souk or Ajman Central Market, have shops specializing in traditional clothing.
  • Tailoring Shops:
    • Many tailoring shops in Ajman offer custom-made kanduras to ensure a perfect fit. Popular tailors include Al Madani Tailors and Al Bader Tailors.
  • Shopping Malls:
    • Stores like Al Motahajiba and other boutiques in City Centre Ajman offer ready-made kanduras and accessories.

e. Approximate Costs

  • Ready-made kandura: AED 100–300.
  • Custom-tailored kandura: AED 300–800, depending on fabric and design.
  • Ghutra: AED 50–200.
  • Bisht: AED 500–2,000 or more, depending on the quality of fabric and embroidery.

2. Traditional Clothing for Women

a. Key Garments

  1. Abaya:

    • A long, flowing black cloak worn over regular clothing.
    • Modern abayas often feature intricate embroidery, beadwork, or lace detailing.

  2. Shayla:

    • A long scarf used to cover the head and neck, often paired with the abaya.
    • Shaylas come in various fabrics, including chiffon, silk, and cotton.

  3. Jalabiya:

    • A colorful, loose-fitting dress worn at home or during special occasions like weddings or Ramadan gatherings.
    • Jalabiyas are often elaborately decorated with embroidery, sequins, or crystals.

  4. Burqa:

    • A traditional face covering made from metallic fabric, worn by older Emirati women. It is less common today but still seen during cultural events.

b. Cultural Significance

  • The abaya and shayla reflect modesty and respect for Islamic values.
  • The jalabiya is a symbol of femininity and is often worn to celebrate Emirati heritage during festive occasions.

c. Materials Used

  • Abayas are typically made from lightweight fabrics like crepe, chiffon, or silk.
  • Jalabiyas are crafted from cotton, silk, or satin, often adorned with embroidery or embellishments.

d. Where to Purchase or Tailor

  • Local Markets and Souks:
    • Ajman Central Market and other souks offer a wide range of abayas, shaylas, and jalabiyas.
  • Boutiques and Malls:
    • Stores like Al Motahajiba, Dar Al Kashkha, and Hanayen in City Centre Ajman specialize in high-quality abayas and jalabiyas.
  • Tailoring Shops:
    • Custom abayas and jalabiyas can be tailored at shops like Al Jameela Tailors or Al Aroosa Tailors.

e. Approximate Costs

  • Ready-made abaya: AED 150–500.
  • Custom-tailored abaya: AED 500–1,500, depending on fabric and design.
  • Jalabiya: AED 200–1,000, depending on the level of embellishment.
  • Shayla: AED 50–200.

3. Occasions and Customs for Wearing Traditional Clothing

  • Daily Wear:
    • Men and women often wear traditional clothing as part of their daily attire, especially in formal or professional settings.
  • Religious Events:
    • During Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha, traditional clothing is commonly worn to mosques and family gatherings.
  • Weddings:
    • Men wear the bisht, while women often wear elaborately designed jalabiyas or abayas.
  • National Day and Cultural Festivals:
    • Emiratis proudly wear traditional attire to celebrate their heritage.

4. Practical Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

  1. Respect Cultural Norms:

    • If you wish to wear traditional Emirati clothing, do so respectfully and ensure it is appropriate for the occasion.
    • Avoid overly casual or revealing attire, as modesty is highly valued in the UAE.

  2. Seek Guidance:

    • If you are unsure about how to wear a kandura, ghutra, or abaya, ask a local or shop assistant for advice. They are usually happy to help.

  3. Start with Accessories:

    • Visitors can start by incorporating elements like the ghutra or shayla into their wardrobe before fully adopting traditional attire.

  4. Tailoring for a Perfect Fit:

    • For a more authentic look, consider having your kandura or abaya custom-tailored. Tailors in Ajman are skilled and can guide you in selecting the right fabric and design.

  5. Cultural Sensitivity:

    • Traditional clothing is deeply tied to Emirati identity. Avoid wearing it in a way that could be perceived as disrespectful or as cultural appropriation.

  6. Climate Considerations:

    • Choose lightweight fabrics for comfort, especially during the summer months when temperatures can exceed 40°C.

5. Learning Opportunities

  • Cultural Centers:
    • Visit cultural centers in Ajman, such as the Ajman Museum, to learn more about Emirati traditions, including clothing.
  • Workshops:
    • Some cultural festivals and events in the UAE offer workshops on traditional Emirati attire and its significance.

By understanding and respecting the traditional clothing of Ajman, visitors and immigrants can gain a deeper appreciation for Emirati culture and heritage. Whether you’re looking to purchase a kandura, abaya, or jalabiya, or simply want to learn about their significance, Ajman offers plenty of opportunities to explore this rich aspect of its culture.