How to Choose the Perfect Abaya Fabric for UAE Weather

Let’s be honest. There are days in the UAE when you step outside and feel it instantly—the sun is generous, to say the least. On days like these, what you’re wearing isn't just about style; it’s about survival.

And your abaya? It’s your shield, your comfort, your second skin.

However, not all fabrics are created equal, especially when exposed to the Arabian sun.

At Qumasha wa naqsha, we spend our days surrounded by rolls of beautiful textiles. We feel their weight, test their drape, and dream of the designs they could become. We named our brand "fabric and design" for a reason, because the soul of a truly great abaya begins long before the first stitch, with the choice of the qumasha.

So, how do you choose? Let's set aside the complicated jargon and talk about what it truly feels like to wear these fabrics.

1. The Breeze-Catcher: Chiffon

Imagine the lightest, most airy fabric you can. That’s chiffon. When you wear a chiffon abaya, it’s like having your own personal breeze. It floats around you, never sticking or feeling heavy.

The Vibe: Elegant, dreamy, and perfect for when you want to feel a little ethereal.
Perfect For: Evening events, a special dinner, or simply for feeling incredibly feminine on a hot day. It’s our go-to for intricate naqsha (embroidery) because the delicate patterns look like they’re floating in the air.
A Little Secret: High-quality chiffon is key. We use layers that give you coverage without ever sacrificing that feeling of weightlessness.

2. The Everyday Hero: Crepe

If abayas had a best friend, it would be crepe. This is the fabric you reach for when you have a busy day and need an abaya that works as hard as you do. It has a slight, graceful texture that hides a multitude of sins (like that quick dash from the car park!). It doesn’t wrinkle easily and has a beautiful, fluid drape that makes you look polished without even trying.

The Vibe: Sophisticated, put-together, and effortlessly chic.
Perfect For: Absolutely everything. From your work meetings to coffee with friends, a crepe abaya is your reliable style partner.
Our Touch: We love crepe because it’s a dream canvas. It holds our designs beautifully, from subtle details to more dramatic statements.

3. The Comfort Embrace: Jersey

Some days, you just want to feel like you’re wearing a hug. That’s a jersey. This soft, stretchy fabric moves with you. It’s the one you pack for travel, wear on long shopping trips, or choose on those days when comfort is your top priority.

Don’t mistake it for being casual, though. A well-cut jersey abaya in a rich colour can look incredibly elegant.

The Vibe: Easy-going, soft, and wonderfully practical.
Perfect For: Your busiest, most on-the-go days. It’s for the woman who values ease and movement.
Our Promise: We source jersey that has a beautiful, weighty drape. No one wants a flimsy jersey! Ours feel luxurious and hold their shape, so you look as good as you feel.

4. The Natural Cool: Linen & Blends

There’s a reason people have loved linen for centuries in warm climates. It’s a natural genius at keeping you cool. It breathes like nothing else.

Yes, it creases, but that’s part of its charm, it’s a fabric with character. We often use linen blended with a little cotton or viscose to soften it and make it more forgiving.

The Vibe: Relaxed, organic, and effortlessly stylish. It has a beautiful, textured look.
Perfect For: A daytime garden party, a resort look, or if you’re a lover of natural, earthy aesthetics.
Our Love for It: We adore how our naqsha looks on linen. The designs take on a more organic, artisanal feel, perfect for a unique statement.

So, Which One is For You?

Think about your life.

Is it a day of dashing between appointments? Reach for Crepe.
A special evening under the stars? You’re a Chiffon woman.
A long, busy day where comfort is king? Jersey will never let you down.
Craving a natural, textured look for a daytime event? Linen is your soulmate.

Walking through our studio, running a hand over a new roll of fabric, and imagining the woman who will wear it, this is our greatest joy.

We believe your abaya should make you feel as amazing as you look, from the first cool hour of the morning to the last warm breeze of the evening.

Tell us, which fabric speaks to your life? Share your favourite in the comments below!