The abaya is a long, loose-fitting robe that covers the whole body from the neck to the wrists and then down to the feet. The dominant usage of the abaya leaves many assuming that it is a religiously prescribed attire; however, it is indeed a culturally-rooted traditional attire from the Gulf.
The abaya is adopted by many women due to the ease and comfort it provides and also due to its close alignment with Islamic dress code guidelines. It is typically sold with a headscarf (also known as shayla) that compliments the abaya.
If you’re new to Doha and wondering where to make your abaya purchase or just looking for options; the ILoveQatar.net (ILQ) team is here with a list of places (in alphabetical order) where you can find affordable abayas to suit various preferences.
Note: Prices are subject to design, fabric, and vendor bargain.
Note 1: Before we proceed, it's important to point out here that it's not compulsory to wear the abaya, shayla or hijab in Qatar.
Note 2: Though abayas are mostly used by Muslim women to cover their bodies in Qatar, this does not mean that they can't be worn by expats and non-Muslim women. In fact, you'll see many expats and non-Muslim women choosing to wear abayas in Doha.
You'll also find abayas that are in the traditional black colour and some colourful ones too.
Watch the video below to know more!
The bustling street of Al Aziziyah will leave you spoilt for choice. While you stroll by, many of the vendors await you outside the shops attracting your attention to their best abayas.
Unknown to many, within Dragonmart Qatar lies multiple outlets that sell abayas stitched using the latest fabrics and designs. Get them ready-made or even tailor-made to suit your size and design preferences.
Find out more about what Dragonmart Qatar has to offer here!
Check out the little kiosks at Dar Al Salam Mall and Gulf Mall for some unique, trendy and beautiful abayas.
A stretch of multiple stores releasing abayas of new designs and new styles can be found at Muntazah. You can get your hands on many abayas on sale all year round!
One of the oldest standing souqs in Doha located opposite the iconic Fanar Mosque houses numerous stores that offer abayas of all price ranges, keeping up with evolving trends and fresh fabrics in the market.
You can find abayas of all colours, fabrics, designs, and embellishments to suit your preferences at Souq Waqif. Do note that purchases of more than one piece will give you a better shot at bargaining with the vendor.
One of the oldest market areas in Doha housing multiple tailoring shops that put together some of the most unique abayas is the Thursday Friday Market also known as 'Khamis And Jumaa Souq'. A spot that is hidden in the crowd, but once found will be your go-to place.
Unlike what the exterior suggests, this little market holds together multiple vendors that sell Arabic dresses, jewellery, perfumes, and much more. Amongst the many items sold are abayas of the latest style and trend that are budget-friendly too.
Cover image credit: Shutterstock
Did you know about these abaya markets before? Which spot would you be heading to? Do let us know in the comments below. Do share this article - it keeps us going!
Follow us on our social media channels:
@ILQlive
@ILQlive
@ILoveQtr
ILoveQatar
You have successfully registered your account!
Please confirm your e-mail address by clicking on the URL sent to you.The e-mail usually arrives in 5-10 minutes.
How ajeeb was that!? Thanks for contributing to our community! Your post will appear after we take a quick look!
