Threads of Identity: Emirati National Clothing and Its Impact on Social Interactions

Aisha Taha Al Fahim

New York University Abu Dhabi

Abstract
This qualitative research conducted at New York University Abu Dhabi explores the role of

Emirati national clothing in shaping social interactions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a

rapidly modernizing and culturally diverse country. Through in-depth interviews with 40 Emirati

students and alumni, the research reveals that traditional attire, particularly the abaya, is often

linked to perceptions of conservatism, while modern abaya styles, characterized by loose fits and

vibrant colors, are seen as signs of openness and approachability. Additionally, Emiratis

adopting casual clothing alongside their national attire blur the boundaries between themselves

and expatriates, resulting in more natural and easy-going social interactions. This study

showcases the intricate relationship between clothing choices and the evolving Emirati identity

in the context of a globalized UAE.

Keywords: Emirati national clothing, Abaya and Kandoora, Social interactions, Identity

markers, Privilege, and stereotypes, Traditional vs. modern attire, Western clothing, Cultural

perceptions, Emirati identity, Globalization and UAE society.

Table of Contents

Page
Introduction………………………………………………………………………………. 3
 - The UAE's Transformative Journey……………………………………………….. 3

- Imagined Communities and Invented Traditions………………………………….. 3

- The Role of National Clothing…………………………………………………….. 4

- Purpose and Scope of the Research………………………………………………... 5

Methodology……………………………………………………………………………….. 5

Discussion………………………………………………………………………………….. 6

- Standardization and Uniformity……………………………………………………. 6

- National clothing as identity markers………………………………………………. 7

- Perceptions and stereotypes….…………………………………………………...…..8

- Intimidation and approachability ………………………………………………….... 9

- Caution and respect ………………………………………………………………… 10

- Traditional Vs Modern ….………………………………………………………….. 11

- Colored Abaya……………………………………………………………….……….12

- Casual Clothing………………………………………………………………………13

Conclusion…………………………………………………………………………………… 13

References…………………………………………………………………………………… 15

Introduction
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a young country that has experienced remarkable growth

and transformation following the oil boom during the 1960s. This economic windfall ignited a

rapid modernization and development journey, reshaping the country and its people.

Consequently, the UAE swiftly evolved into a highly globalized, multi-ethnic urban hub,

attracting individuals from all over the globe. This influx of expatriates has profoundly

reconstructed the demographic landscape, surpassing Emirati national’s numbers, causing

Emiratis to be the minority in their homeland. In 2021, data from the UAE's government portal

reveals that the population has continued to rise, nearing the 10 million marks. Within this

growing nation, the number of Emirati citizens remain comparatively small, at approximately

one million individuals.

Amidst the rapid changes that occurred in the UAE, Emiratis sought an ideology to unite the

locals and established shared values and cultures that could help distinguish them from the

growing flow of expatriates which were entering the country. Emiratis needed a cohesive story

and shared set of beliefs to bring them together and yet, foster a sense of belonging to the UAE.

Notably, scholars like Dr. Sulayman Khalaf, Rana Al Mutawa, and Noor Al Qasimi have

extensively explored how Emiratis are functioning as an ‘imagined community’. This ‘imagined

community’ falls within Anderson's framework, which highlights, strategically employed

cultural discourses, practices, and attire in order to shape their identity and assert their

distinctiveness within their multicultural surrounding. The UAE's oil boom and the surge of

expatriates made it necessary to solidify the Emirati national identity in the face of external

influences, particularly from the West. To navigate this complex challenge, Emiratis turned to

‘invented traditions’ (Hobsbawm & Ranger, 1983). They adopted symbolic practices that

highlighted the sense of historical authenticity. One significant aspect of the invented traditions
seen within the Emirati community is national clothing. Clothing reflects a variety of ideologies,

social traditions, heritage, Islamic principles, and national political symbols. These fusions then

play the part in setting up the foundation of Emirati identity in the evolving landscape of the

UAE.

The ‘Abaya' for ladies and ‘Kandoora' for men are national apparel. Abayas are essential for

Emirati women. Abayas are loose and flowing. It is traditionally a black robe that hangs from

neck to feet and has sleeves to the wrists, producing a modest yet attractive silhouette. Shayla, a

haircovering headscarf, goes with the Abaya. In current Emirati fashion, the Abaya has several

hues besides black. Yet, Emirati women's public attire—the black abaya—makes them unique

and attractive. The Abaya has evolved from a traditional garment to a symbol of flair and self-

expression in Emirati society. Over time, Abaya has become a fashion statement of grace and

elegance.

Emirati men wear flowy Kandooras resembling abayas. Wrist-length sleeves nicely wrap the

neck to ankle. Its backdrop is generally white with beige or darker tones. Kandoora's 'Tarboosh'

tassel covers neck and abdomen. Emirati men finish their costume with the gotra, a white

headscarf kept in place by the "Aqal" black rope. Some younger people prefer the loosely

wrapped turban-style ‘Isama' head covering (Khalaf, 254-255).

National attire is an important part of Emirati identity, but it may also affect social relationships

and the community. This study examines how Emiratis feel while wearing their national clothes

and how their dress choices affect these interactions.

 Methodology

The research methodology employed for this study involved a qualitative approach. This

approach gathered perspectives of 40 Emiratis (20 men and 20 women) in the age range of 16-35

years. All participants were currently enrolled at New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) or

have held a bachelor's degree from NYUAD at the time of the interview. The data collection

process spanned two years, during which one-on-one interviews were conducted. Each interview

session lasted approximately one hour, allowing for an in-depth investigation of the research

topics.

The interviews were formatted in a semi-structured flow, which helped guide the discussions,

enabling flexibility and consistency in the data collection process. Participants were selected

using snowball sampling, which involved recruiting initial participants and relying on their

referrals to identify additional suitable participants. This approach aimed to ensure diversity

within the sample and access to individuals with relevant insights and experiences.

All interview sessions were audio-recorded to ensure the accuracy of the information. These

recordings were translated and transcribed, providing a rich dataset for qualitative analysis. The

research approach used within the study further allowed for a comprehensive exploration of the

role of national clothing in social interactions between Emiratis and expatriates.

Discussion
Standardization and uniformity

Abaya and Kandoora do not have a deeply rooted history in the UAE. In the pre-oil era, when the

UAE relied heavily on trade, people from Persia, India, and Bahrain gathered to engage in

business within the region. People coming from a range of different backgrounds having

different cultures highlighted their unique way of dressing. However, as the country began to

establish itself, the UAE started focusing on developing a shared identity to bring people

together. Standardizing national clothing in the UAE, particularly the Abaya and Kandoora, has

greatly contributed to a sense of collective identity and social cohesion among Emiratis. This

drive for uniformity in attire has been a deliberate effort by the country to create a homogeneous

society, masking the historical diversity that once characterized the region. As emphasized by

scholar Rana Al Mutawa, this drive for standardization aimed to portray a uniform and

homogeneous society, effectively concealing the historical diversity that once characterized the

region (Al Mutawa, 3). Scholar Rana Al Mutawa highlights the significance of standardized

clothing, emphasizing that it fosters a sense of unity and shared cultural identity among Emiratis

(Al Mutawa, 3). By representing a uniform and recognizable appearance, national clothing

effectively promotes a collective identity that transcends individual differences. In line with this

perspective, Gwen Bouvier expresses that "Clothing can regulate and control people in a much

more overt way. Uniforms suppress difference, create collective identities or foreground role

over person" (Bouvier, 191-192). Looking at how this change of physical appearance creates an

impact upon individuals in the present day, about the concept of standardization and it is echoed

in the interviews, where O.M underlines the Kandoora's unifying aspect, stating that " The

Kandora is the same across all, which is part of the beauty of it is that kind of collective culture

of clothing, and which I find very nice in terms of identifying people who are also Emirati and,
you know, kind of feeling like there's something that links us all''. A.M further illustrates the

challenge of differentiation while wearing traditional clothing expressing this as, "I mean, it's

hard to differentiate people when they all wear the same thing. All of us kind of go to the same

barbers and stuff like that. So, we had the same beard, same mustache, same haircuts. So I mean,

I kind of see that; I kind of see why they (international students) mix us up". In essence, the idea

of standardization in national clothing, effectively fostered unity among Emiratis. However,

simultaneously, the similarity in attire makes it difficult for outsiders to distinguish between

individuals.

The impact of standardized attire can be seen through interviews with Emiratis, revealing how it

creates a sense of belonging within the community. O.M, one of the interviewees, emphasizes

the unifying aspect of the Kandoora, mentioning that it serves as a symbol of collective culture

and helps in identifying fellow Emiratis. This shared clothing identity promotes solidarity and a

feeling of commonality among individuals (O.M, personal communication). However, the

standardization of clothing also poses challenges in distinguishing individuals, especially for

outsiders. A.M, another interviewee, highlights the difficulty in differentiating Emiratis due to

the similarities in their clothing and grooming choices. This can lead to potential misconceptions

and confusion among international visitors (A.M, personal communication).

In summary, the standardization and uniformity of Emirati national clothing, represented by the

Abaya and Kandoora, play a significant role in fostering a cohesive society. This deliberate effort

to create a shared cultural identity allows for a sense of unity among Emiratis. However, the

uniformity can simultaneously pose challenges in distinguishing individuals, making it important

to both recognize the benefits of standardized attire and address the potential limitations for

outsiders.
National Clothing as Identity Markers

Emirati national clothing stands out distinctly from conventional attire, rendering it a symbol for

identifying Emiratis. The unique garments serve as evident markers of national identity, instantly

signaling an individual about Emirati heritage and culture. Consequently, this leads to their

assimilation into a broader category of ‘Emiratis’. In the context of Emirati national clothing, the

theme of standardization and uniformity emerges as a crucial aspect influencing the role of attire

as an identity marker. The traditional garments, such as the Abaya and Shayla, not only signify

Emirati heritage but also contribute to a sense of unity and conformity within the community.

The meticulous adherence to specific styles, colors, and fabrics establishes a standardized visual

language that reinforces a collective identity. This adherence is evident in the consistent use of

traditional patterns and designs across diverse age groups and socioeconomic backgrounds. Idil

Akinci supports this perspective by commenting, "Dress and adornments are some of the most

important of symbolic markers in the expression of (national) identity" (Idil, 1778). Dr.

Sulayman Khalaf further highlights this by explaining, "Dress does not only transform the

human body into a cultural form but also transforms it into a walking script, a social language"

(Khalaf, 265). As observed by F.G., a participant in our study, "There's a shared understanding

that when we wear our national dress, we're part of something bigger. It's like a uniform that

unites us." Scholars like Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo emphasize the importance of standardization in

national clothing, noting that it "creates a visual harmony, reflecting a collective consciousness"

(Alkhamis-Kanoo, 1125). The interviewees corroborate this view through some perspectives,

such as M.M observation, "When sitting there with that Abaya and Shayla, it's an immediate

identifier that okay, this person is an Emirati." M.H echoes a similar sentiment, insinuating, "I do

think it definitely puts a marker on you, especially with girls. Okay, she's Emirati, you know?
Um, yeah, I definitely did feel that". This shows that traditional attire is an immediate indicator

of a person’s identity, which conveys a signal to others of their distinct morals and beliefs.

This visual harmony not only enhances the recognizability of Emirati identity but also fosters a

sense of belonging and community. The standardization of Emirati national clothing serves as a

powerful mechanism for promoting a shared cultural narrative, where individuals are not only

expressing their personal identity but also contributing to a broader, standardized representation

of the Emirati people.

Furthermore, the concept of standardization extends beyond the physical attributes of clothing to

encompass behavioral expectations associated with wearing traditional attire. The uniformity in

the donning of Emirati national clothing is often accompanied by a set of socially accepted

norms and etiquettes. This aligns with the assertion of sociologist Rania Kassar, who contends

that "the adoption of national dress is not merely a sartorial choice but a commitment to a set of

shared values and behaviors" (Kassar, 789). The standardization of both the visual elements and

associated behaviors reinforces the role of national clothing as a potent marker of Emirati

identity, influencing not only how individuals are perceived but also shaping their interactions

within the social fabric.

Perceptions and Stereotypes

National clothing serves as a potent symbol that often shapes perceptions and fosters stereotypes

about individuals and their societal roles. While the Kandora, the traditional Emirati male attire,

has deep cultural significance, it also becomes a focal point for preconceived notions perpetuated

by various media outlets. Media, including Hollywood movies and news coverage, plays a

pivotal role in shaping global perspectives on Emiratis. Research indicates that individuals from
other cultures tend to ascribe specific characteristics to Emiratis based solely on their attire,

reinforcing pervasive stereotypes. Pervasive preconceived notions and stereotypes about Emiratis

are influenced through the various media outlets such as Hollywood movies and the news

coverage. A.H states, "Like in the eyes of whatever international student is looking at you, they

ascribe to you, you know, different characteristics just by virtue of wearing the Kandora",

therefore this tells that, national clothing signifies certain characteristics about the wearer. A.H's

observation underscores the impact of national clothing on external perceptions, noting that

international students often attribute different characteristics to individuals wearing the Kandora.

This phenomenon suggests that the national dress serves as a visual cue that informs assumptions

about the wearer's identity. Such preconceived notions can lead to a range of stereotypes that

may not accurately represent the diverse and multifaceted nature of Emirati society. One

particularly widespread stereotype about the UAE or the Gulf region in general, is that their

citizens are seen as privileged individuals. This perception is tied to national clothing through

Rana Al Mutawa's assertion that "National dress signals to fellow citizens, as well as foreign

residents that the person wearing national dress has more privileges and may be regarded as

superior to the foreigners in that society" (Al Mutawa, 7). A.R affirms this through his statement,

"I think that people view me maybe as more privileged or more entitled, wearing the national

dress on campus" The notion that individuals wearing the national dress are automatically

deemed more privileged is echoed by A.R, who notes that people may view him as more entitled

on a university campus., E.F delves deeper into this dilemma, stating, “… It's like a status thing

like I can afford to wear a long black coat, or cloak, or Abaya because I don't need to run around

like you. I'm prestigious. I'm not going to walk as much as you because it's actually

uncomfortable. So, it actually puts you on a pedestal like I can afford to dress uncomfortably
because I'm not doing as much labor as you. Not just anyone can talk to me. And I'm

intimidating wearing all black”. It is imperative to recognize the complexities involved in the

formation of stereotypes and their connection to national clothing. As individuals express their

thoughts and experiences, it becomes evident that assumptions about privilege and entitlement

are deeply intertwined with the visual cues provided by Emirati traditional attire. This analysis

contributes to a nuanced understanding of how perceptions and stereotypes manifest in social

interactions, shaping the dynamics within the broader cultural context.

Intimidation and Approachability

When engaging with expatriates, Emiratis often conveyed the sense that their national clothing

unintentionally exuded an intimidating aura. This aligns with Dr. Sulayman Khalaf's perspective,

highlighting how attire transforms the body into a canvas of symbols and signs that communicate

with the social world. Khalaf's insights showcase how dress relays messages about identity,

social standing, and status, thereby influencing the reactions of others. The comments made by

the interviewees further validate this idea. A.Z revealed that by highlighting, "People were less

approachable, less probable, to approach me because of how I dress. And that's not an

assumption. That's something I heard. That's something I heard from them (international

students) because I asked them." H.A reflected on this issue, commenting, "I think it makes you

labeled as unapproachable. I don't know if unfriendly; I think that's a huge statement, but I feel

definitely unapproachable." The male interviewees shared a similar viewpoint, M.A, states, "I

would say wearing the national dress would attract a very minority of people who are genuinely

interested and like, you know, have questions and stuff and like we want to learn, but for the

most part would repel most ordinary people". National clothing has a profound impact on the
initial impressions people form even before engaging in verbal communication, often leading to

a sense of intimidation when identifying individuals as Emiratis, and then as a result fostering

caution about their actions and words.

Caution and Respect

The significance of Emirati national clothing extends beyond aesthetics, encompassing deeply

rooted cultural values and social norms. Researchers have emphasized the importance of

approaching discussions about Emirati national clothing with caution and respect to avoid

perpetuating stereotypes or misinterpretations. Al-Mansoori (2018) underscores the need for

researchers and individuals alike to navigate conversations about traditional attire with

sensitivity, recognizing the diverse meanings woven into each garment. Perceiving Emiratis as

privileged and labeling them as intimidating causes individuals to approach their interactions

with apprehension. Misunderstandings can arise when interpretations are oversimplified,

potentially leading to the misrepresentation of Emirati identity. As such, approaching this topic

with an open mind and a commitment to cultural understanding is imperative to foster respectful

dialogue (Al-Mansoori, 2018). A.K observed, “When foreign students encounter individuals in

national dress, they tend to exercise greater prudence in their words and approach toward

Emiratis.” A.A echoed this view, remarking, “I believe that when I mention my Emirati identity

or wear traditional clothing, I unmistakably receive heightened respect. People alter their tone

and demeanor towards me, expressing a deeper sense of regard and admiration”. In the realm of

social interactions, the attire worn by Emiratis often serves as a marker of identity and affiliation.

To engage meaningfully with individuals donned in traditional clothing, it is crucial to exercise

cultural competence. National clothing tends to elicit a higher degree of politeness and respect,
which in some occurrences, might be too excessive. Scholars like Ahmed and Khan (2019)

emphasize the importance of demonstrating respect for cultural practices and acknowledging the

role of national clothing in shaping interpersonal dynamics. By approaching individuals in

traditional attire with an awareness of the significance of their clothing, one can foster positive

social interactions and build cross-cultural bridges (Ahmed & Khan, 2019) S.K recalls an

incident, “I realized this when collaborating with male colleagues from diverse backgrounds on

projects. One of them accidentally touched my hand, and he profusely apologized. I reassured

him that it was not a significant issue, but it highlighted the unnecessary intimidation that can

occur.” This showcases how traditional attire prompts people to exercise caution and how they

should approach interactions with Emiratis, yet making the interactions more delicate when

compared to the encounters with their expatriate counterparts.Caution is warranted when

discussing Emirati national clothing in a global context. Mahmood (2020) discusses the potential

pitfalls of misappropriation and cultural insensitivity, highlighting instances where Emirati attire

has been commodified for fashion trends. Researchers must exercise caution in their work,

ensuring that discussions surrounding national clothing are approached with cultural humility

and respect for the lived experiences of the Emirati people. Striking a balance between curiosity

and cultural sensitivity is vital to prevent the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes or the

exploitation of cultural symbols for commercial gain (Mahmood, 2020).

Traditional Vs. Modern

As the years passed, the abaya has undergone a transformation, evolving from a simple,

unadorned cloak into a fashion-centric symbol that now incorporates embroidered details with
beadwork designs. The shift from some Emirati women adhering to traditional attire to opting for

a contemporary style sends a different message to others, which makes them perceive that these

Emiratis women as more approachable. Gwen Bouvier discusses this transformation by

highlighting as, "the shayla itself can be worn more as a delicate scarf than as a covering"

(Bouvier, 196). M.Q touches on the significance of the Shayla in the perception of individuals

through her statement, "Wearing an abaya but not a shayla... there wouldn't be such prejudice as

I mentioned before". S.E emphasized the role of head covering, saying, "It depends on whether

they cover their hair or not; if they cover their hair, they're less approachable", Bouvier also

states that, "many abayas now have buttons down the middle, allowing the wearer to reveal the

clothing they have on beneath to a more or lesser extent, as they choose" (Bouvier, 202).

Expanding on this statement, S.K points out "you can’t help but associate if she wears her sheila

and abayas she must be more conservative, she must care for these boundaries. If I don’t wear

my shayla and keep my abaya open, then she’s more open minded". Choosing to wear the

national clothing in a more relaxed manner, such as forgoing the Shayla or embracing a more

modern style with the abaya, contributed to smoother interactions with expatriates.

Colored Abaya

The traditional black abaya has long been a symbol of modesty and cultural identity in the

United Arab Emirates (UAE). However, recent years have witnessed a notable shift as more

Emirati women embrace colored abayas, introducing a dynamic element to the traditional attire.

This shift sparks a fascinating intersection between tradition and modernity, prompting a closer

examination of the sociocultural implications surrounding the adoption of colored abayas. The
modern Abaya have not only incorporated new embroidery and beadwork styles but have also

expanded to include a wide range of colors beyond the traditional black color. Gwen Bouvier’s

observations shed light on the historical tendency for traditional Abayas, stating this as, "More

traditional abayas tend to have very limited color palettes, using just black. Black is spoken of in

terms of moderation and not attracting attention to oneself " (Bouvier, 203). In a study conducted

by Al-Hosani et al. (2019), the researchers explore the motivations and perceptions behind the

choice of colored abayas among Emirati women. The findings suggest that the shift towards

colored abayas is not merely a fashion statement but serves as a form of self-expression and

individuality. Participants in the study expressed a desire to break away from the monochromatic

norm and use their attire as a means of asserting personal style while still adhering to cultural

norms. The choice of color in national clothing plays a pivotal role to the characteristics assigned

to the Emirati. Opting for the traditional black attire may appear less inviting, whereas Emirati

women embracing a wider range of colors are perceived as contemporary and open-minded. The

adoption of colored abayas also intersects with the evolving role of women in Emirati society.

Al-Mansoori (2020) argues that the shift towards colored abayas reflects a broader societal

change, where women are increasingly finding ways to balance tradition with modernity.

Colored abayas become a canvas for women to showcase their identity and embrace cultural

diversity without compromising their commitment to tradition. However, this trend has not been

without controversy. Some critics argue that the introduction of colored abayas challenges the

essence of traditional attire and risks diluting cultural heritage. Al-Kaabi (2018) explores these

concerns in her research, highlighting the ongoing debate within Emirati society regarding the

acceptability of colored abayas. E.F mentions "So, I think a foreigner would look at someone in a

black abaya and a colored abaya and probably walk towards the person and be more friendly and
feel more like they can approach the person wearing the colored abaya. Because in their mind, it

means not as conservative", H.S agrees with this perspective, stating, "If I were to put myself in

an expat's shoes, and I see somebody who's wearing a colored abaya and shayla, I'd be much

more open to talking to that person. I do think the black puts people off." M.M explains that the

choice of colors in attire can either enable or hinder interactions, through her statement "wearing

a just black abaya is like giving yourself a boundary, but with colors, it opens that boundary."

This transformation from the traditional black abaya to colorful variations allowed Emirati

women to express their individuality, setting them out of the crowd helping ease social

interactions. This discourse underscores the intricate dynamics at play, as individuals negotiate

between preserving tradition and expressing their evolving identity.

Casual Clothing

Casual clothing in the context of Emirati national identity presents a fascinating dimension of

cultural expression and social dynamics. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where traditional

attire holds great significance, casual clothing serves as a subtle yet powerful channel through

which individuals negotiate their identity within a rapidly evolving social landscape. According

to a study by Al-Hassan and Al-Saadi (2018), casual clothing choices are integral to the everyday

lives of Emiratis, reflecting their adaptation to modernity while preserving cultural

distinctiveness. Amidst the intricate fabric of Emirati identity, the realm of casual clothing

unveils a captivating tapestry of cultural dynamics and evolving sociocultural norms. Influenced

by globalization and the cultural diversity within the UAE, some Emiratis have embraced casual

attire, which means frequently switching between national clothing and more relaxed clothing
styles. In exploring the interplay between tradition and modernity, it becomes evident that

Emiratis, predominantly men, engage in a subtle dance between traditional garments and

contemporary casual wear. The adoption of casual clothing is not merely a departure from

traditional garments but rather a nuanced blend of heritage and global influences. As Al-

Mansoori and Al-Khoori (2019) assert in their research, the Emirati youth's preference for casual

attire reflects a desire to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, embodying a sense of

cosmopolitanism. This sartorial choice becomes a means through which individuals navigate the

multifaceted layers of their identity, embracing both local values and global trends. Interestingly,

casual clothing is not solely a personal choice but can also influence social interactions. Al-

Awadhi and Al-Hosani (2020) note in their study that casual attire can serve as a subtle indicator

of one's social affiliations and aspirations. Whether it be through the selection of specific brands

or styles, individuals convey socio-economic status and cultural alignment. This suggests that

casual clothing acts as a dynamic tool for social signaling, contributing to the intricate tapestry of

Emirati identity within contemporary society. Casual clothing allows individuals to express their

personal style, thus influencing impressions of the individuals towards them. S.F mentions, "I

feel like, in general, if you were wearing jeans and a T-shirt or a crop top or whatever, you were

more likely to be approached." A.Z expressed a similar sentiment, "I know other Emiratis who

were wearing different clothing, western clothing to be specific, and who didn't have difficulty in

interacting with other people... because there wasn't this border between the two of them or an

imaginary border." A.H reinforces this perspective, commenting, "I think unfortunately, this

shouldn't be the case or needn't be the case. But it just makes them more approachable. I don't

know if they see me wearing a white T, and a pair of Levi's. And they're like, 'Oh, my God, he's

relatable.' You know? He's just a teen like me or something like that. That shouldn't be the case.
But I guess that's the thinking for so many people". Furthermore, E.F adds on to this

conversation through her personal experience stating, "I actually went from not wearing the

abaya to wearing the abaya to wearing transition abayas hybrid model to taking this off

completely. I was able to like mix more with like the foreigners which I was so happy about

because I did feel better about that". Donning in casual clothing blurs the boundaries between

Emiratis and expatriates fostering a sense of familiarity and easing the approachability. Casual

clothing plays a pivotal role in shaping Emirati identity by blending tradition with modernity. It

serves as a vehicle through which individuals negotiate their cultural heritage while participating

in the globalized world. This insight, drawn from various research studies, underscores the

significance of casual clothing in the intricate threads of Emirati national identity.

Conclusion

This research provides insights into the intricate relationship between national clothing and the

dynamics of social interactions through the perspective of Emiratis. The study reveals various

factors that shed light on how clothing shapes an Emirati’s identity and how it influences

interactions with expatriates.

The historical context provided in the research establishes the initial purpose of the Abaya and

Kandoora, which plays role in fostering unity among Emiratis residing in a diverse population.

While this standardization achieved the goal of creating a collective identity, it also made it

challenging for outsiders to distinguish between individuals, which highlighted the complexity of

balancing unity and individuality.

The traditional attire serves as a symbol of identity, instantly signaling to the ‘Emirati heritage’.

This marker reinforces the Emirati identity and emphasizes the importance of dress as a symbol

of national identity. There are various characteristics ascribed to Emiratis by the virtue of

wearing their traditional attire. One key stereotype center around Emiratis being privileged. This

preconceived notion creates a sense of superiority complex that obstructs authentic interactions

among individuals. As a result, Emiratis are seen as intimidating, which causes individuals to

approach interactions with caution as well as showing a heightened level of respect.

The transformation of the Abaya, in contrast to the Kandoora, have witnessed more significant

changes driven by globalization and fashion trends. The shift of the Abaya from its traditional, to

more of a fashionable statement profoundly impacted the nature of social interactions. Moving

away from the traditional black color alone initiates noticeable shifts in social dynamics. Emirati

women who opt for a broader range of colors are often seen as more contemporary and open-

minded. Furthermore, the way Abaya and Shayla are worn, whether more loosely or in a relaxed

fashion, also plays a role in shaping these perceptions.

Emiratis donning casual attire become more approachable to expatriates due to the perceived

sense of similarity it creates. This shift in clothing choices can effectively dismantle the barriers

that often exist between Emiratis and expatriates, creating a sense of commonality between the

two groups. Emirati men tend to transition between national clothing and casual attire more

frequently, as it is culturally more acceptable than Emirati women doing so. The choice in

clothing emphasizes Emiratis as distinct individuals, distinguishing them from the collective

visibility associated with traditional attire.

In conclusion, this research highlights multiple ways in which national dress can play a pivotal

role in influencing social interactions and perspectives in the UAE. The Abaya and Kandoora,

being symbols of unity and identity, also carry the weight of stereotypes and preconceptions.

Understanding these dynamics is essential for developing genuine and natural interactions in this

multicultural society. Additional research can delve into the expatriate perspectives when

interacting with Emiratis in order to provide a comprehensive overview of this topic from both

sides.

References