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Whether it’s attending a South Asian colleague’s wedding draped in a stunning chiffon saree or celebrating a suhoor gathering during Ramadan in an elegant Moroccan kaftan, there’s no doubt that living in the UAE brings along unique experiences when it comes to dressing up.
With more than 200 nationalities living and working here, as highlighted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the country stands as a vibrant melting pot of cultures. This rich tapestry is not only reflected in its cuisine and traditions but also expressed all across its diverse and dynamic fashion scene. Whether its getting influenced by a friend or coworker, or drawing inspiration from brands and markets selling clothing from practically every corner of the world, the fusion of traditional and contemporary styles creates a wardrobe that is both globally inspired and uniquely personal.
GRAZIA spoke to fashion-forward individuals in the country on how the UAE offers its residents the opportunity to embrace an array of cultural attires and how that has impacted their personal style.
Raya Khalid, a 29-year-old Iraqi expat who has called the UAE home all her life, attributes her eclectic wardrobe to the rich diversity surrounding her. “I have friends from all nationalities; my closet is a global journey in itself. From colourful sarees and lehengas to abayas, my wardrobe has it all,” she said.
For Raya, the UAE is a haven for fashion enthusiasts eager to step out of their comfort zones. “Dubai is a style and glamour hub; it inspires me to dress up. Plus, the safety here means I can flaunt my best outfits and jewellery without holding back. I might think twice about that if I was travelling for instance.”
The fintech professional also highlighted how special occasions and cultural events she gets a chance to attend in the country have shaped her style choices.
“During Ramadan, I wear abayas and kaftans from Emirati and Moroccan cultures. I wait all year to bring those out. And during my friends’ weddings I’ve worn sarees and South Asian clothing – I love it,” she said.
For 34-year-old Emirati fashion creator Jawaher Alsuwaidi, the UAE’s multicultural environment has profoundly shaped her fashion identity.
“I love my traditional abaya and sheila, but modern abayas now resemble chic coats, making them a stylish form of outerwear,” she said. Beneath her abaya, she often opts for a casual yet trendy jeans and t-shirt ensemble, perfectly balancing tradition and contemporary style.
It seems to be a theme in the UAE that residents get a chance to enjoy clothing pieces from all over the world, as just like Raya, Jawaher too has tried out different styles for special occasions.
“My favourite is Pakistani attire for events because I find it close to my own cultural clothing and it can be dressed up for events and worn everyday,” she said. “I’ve also tried wearing Indian sarees and Sudanese attire,” she added.
Jawaher has gotten so fond of Pakistani fashion that she has also started collaborating with designers from there.
She credits the UAE for these experiences due to its diverse cultural exposure, which mainly comes from her social circle, she says. “I see what my friends who I’ve known for a long time and also people I work with are wearing. It makes us more interested in trying out their fashion.”
The cultural exchange in the UAE is a two-way street, with international fashion houses also embracing Emirati styles. “Dolce & Gabbana’s Special Collection inspired by Arabia is a testament to this. It’s exciting to see our traditional attire gaining global recognition,” Jawaher said.
It’s clear that in the UAE, fashion is more than just clothing – it’s a bridge connecting its residents to a world of diverse styles, creating unique, globally influenced fashion identities.
