Today's Edition
MUDHI ALOBTHANI (ALETIHAD)
As temperatures drop across the UAE, Emirati men and women mark the seasonal shift not by abandoning tradition, but by adapting it.
Winter brings subtle yet meaningful changes to traditional attire, reflecting a balance between heritage, practicality and evolving fashion sensibilities.
According to Emirati fashion enthusiast Shahad Al Hefeiti, the transition from summer to winter wear is influenced by fabric choice rather than style.
“As temperatures cool, Emirati men move from lightweight summer kanduras to thicker fabrics in darker winter tones,” she explains.
Materials such as cashmere, fleece, wool blends and plush fabrics offer warmth while preserving the classic kandura silhouette.
Women, meanwhile, opt for abayas crafted from winter-friendly fabrics including nida, crepe, plush velvet, teli and cashmere, ensuring comfort without compromising modesty or style.
Winter attire also carries cultural symbolism. For men, the bisht remains a defining garment, combining warmth with a sense of formality and heritage. “The bisht reflects cultural pride and status,” Al Hefeiti said.
For women, layered abayas paired with shailas made from chiffon, silk, or cashmere create a look that is both refined and functional.
Fashion observer Shamma Alobthani noted that while the seasonal shift may appear subtle to outsiders, it is significant within the Emirati community.
“As Arabs, we clearly see the change,” she said. “Men move toward darker shades and thicker kandura fabrics, often sourced from Kuwait, using cotton, cashmere and wool blends that provide warmth without heaviness.”
She added that winter also introduces tailored half-coats designed specifically to be worn over the kandura.
Women’s winter fashion, Alobthani explained, becomes more layered and structured.
“Many abayas take on a coat-style look, sometimes inspired by the Arabian desert coat or bisht-style designs,” she said, reflecting a fusion of heritage and contemporary overgarment trends.
This blend of tradition and modern expression is also evident during winter festivals and gatherings. Emirati fashion enthusiast Alia Al Marzooqi said that families often coordinate colours and textures, creating visual harmony while celebrating cultural identity.
Accessories also play a role, with women pairing traditional garments such as the mukhawar with modern elements like handcrafted khoos bags, achieving a look that feels both authentic and current.
Together, these seasonal adaptations demonstrate how Emirati winter wear continues to evolve while staying rooted in tradition.
Through thoughtful fabric choices, layered styling and subtle modern influences, Emiratis preserve their cultural identity – even as fashion responds to changing seasons.
