Ras Al Khaimah

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Traditional Clothing

Sections

Cultural Significance

Traditional clothing in Ras Al Khaimah reflects the UAE's deep-rooted cultural heritage, Islamic values, and the region's desert climate. The attire is designed to be modest, practical, and suitable for the hot weather while also symbolizing identity, pride, and respect for tradition. Emirati clothing is a source of national pride and is often worn to distinguish locals from expatriates in the multicultural society of the UAE.

Types of Traditional Clothing

For Men

  1. Kandura (Dishdasha/Thobe)

    • Description: The kandura is a long, ankle-length robe with long sleeves, typically white but sometimes available in light pastel shades during winter. It is loose-fitting to allow airflow and comfort in the hot climate.
    • Materials: Made from lightweight fabrics such as cotton, linen, or wool (for cooler months).
    • Occasions: Worn daily by Emirati men, especially for work, social gatherings, and religious events.
    • Cultural Note: The style and cut of the kandura can vary slightly between emirates, with subtle differences in collar design or stitching.

  2. Ghutra and Egal

    • Description: The ghutra is a square or rectangular headscarf, usually white or checkered red and white, worn on the head. It is secured with a black cord called the egal.
    • Materials: Cotton or a cotton-polyester blend.
    • Occasions: Worn daily, especially outdoors, to protect against the sun and sand.
    • Cultural Note: The way the ghutra is folded or styled can indicate personal preference or regional identity.

  3. Bisht

    • Description: A flowing black or brown cloak with gold embroidery, worn over the kandura.
    • Materials: Wool or camel hair, with gold or silver thread for embellishments.
    • Occasions: Reserved for formal occasions such as weddings, religious celebrations, or when meeting dignitaries.
    • Cultural Note: The bisht is a symbol of prestige and is often worn by elders or individuals in leadership roles.

For Women

  1. Abaya

    • Description: A long, flowing black cloak that covers the body from shoulders to feet. It is worn over regular clothing. Modern abayas often feature intricate embroidery or embellishments.
    • Materials: Lightweight fabrics such as crepe, chiffon, or silk.
    • Occasions: Worn daily in public as a sign of modesty, in line with Islamic principles.
    • Cultural Note: The abaya is both a cultural and religious garment, and its design can reflect the wearer’s personal style.

  2. Shayla

    • Description: A long, rectangular scarf used to cover the hair and neck. It is often paired with the abaya.
    • Materials: Cotton, chiffon, or silk.
    • Occasions: Worn daily in public.
    • Cultural Note: The way the shayla is styled can vary, with some women opting for simple draping and others choosing more elaborate wrapping techniques.

  3. Burqa (Burga)

    • Description: A traditional face covering made of metallic fabric, historically worn by older Emirati women. It covers the nose, brow, and upper lip.
    • Materials: Metallic fabric, often dyed in gold or bronze tones.
    • Occasions: Less common today but still worn by some older women, especially during cultural events or in rural areas.
    • Cultural Note: The burqa is a symbol of heritage and modesty.

  4. Jalabiya

    • Description: A colorful, embroidered dress worn at home or during festive occasions.
    • Materials: Cotton, silk, or satin, often with intricate embroidery or beadwork.
    • Occasions: Popular during Ramadan, Eid, and weddings.
    • Cultural Note: The jalabiya is a more relaxed garment compared to the abaya and is often worn in private or among women.

Occasions for Wearing Traditional Clothing

  • Daily Wear: Kanduras and abayas are worn daily by Emirati men and women, respectively.
  • Religious Events: During Ramadan, Eid, and Friday prayers, traditional attire is worn to mosques and family gatherings.
  • Weddings: Men may wear a bisht, while women often wear elaborately designed abayas or jalabiyas.
  • National Day and Cultural Festivals: Traditional clothing is worn to celebrate Emirati heritage.
  • Formal Events: Bishts and embellished abayas are common at formal gatherings.

Approximate Costs

  • Kandura: AED 100–500, depending on the fabric and tailoring.
  • Ghutra and Egal: AED 50–200 for the ghutra; AED 50–150 for the egal.
  • Bisht: AED 1,000–5,000 or more, depending on the quality and embroidery.
  • Abaya: AED 200–2,000, with designer abayas costing significantly more.
  • Shayla: AED 50–500, depending on the material and design.
  • Jalabiya: AED 150–1,000, depending on the level of embroidery and fabric.

Where to Buy or Experience Traditional Clothing in Ras Al Khaimah

  1. Local Markets (Souks)

    • Al Nakheel Souk: Offers affordable kanduras, abayas, and accessories.
    • Old RAK Souk: A great place to find traditional fabrics and ready-made garments.

  2. Shopping Malls

    • RAK Mall and Manar Mall: Feature stores selling modern and traditional abayas, kanduras, and accessories.
    • Brands: Look for stores like Al Motahajiba (for abayas) or local tailors for custom kanduras.

  3. Tailors

    • Custom tailoring is common for kanduras and abayas. Many tailors in Ras Al Khaimah specialize in creating garments that fit perfectly and reflect personal preferences.

  4. Cultural Festivals

    • Events like the Ras Al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival or National Day celebrations often showcase traditional clothing and provide opportunities to purchase or learn about them.

Customs and Etiquette

  1. Modesty: Traditional clothing is designed to be modest. If you choose to wear it, ensure it is worn respectfully and appropriately.
  2. Gender-Specific Attire: Men should not wear abayas, and women should not wear kanduras, as these garments are gender-specific.
  3. Head Covering: Women should cover their hair with a shayla when wearing an abaya in public, especially in conservative areas.
  4. Footwear: Traditional clothing is often paired with simple sandals or leather shoes. Avoid overly casual footwear like flip-flops.
  5. Photography: Always ask for permission before photographing someone in traditional attire, as it may be considered intrusive.
  6. Tailoring: If you are getting a kandura or abaya tailored, consult the tailor about local styles and preferences to ensure cultural appropriateness.

By understanding and respecting the traditional clothing of Ras Al Khaimah, you can gain deeper insight into Emirati culture and heritage while ensuring your interactions are culturally sensitive and meaningful.