Abaya and jilbab are both important garments in Islamic culture. Women wear them to cover their bodies modestly. But even though they may look similar, there are real differences between them. The difference is not just about color or fabric—it's about style, purpose, and how each one is worn.
Today, many girls love to explore modern jilbab styles and new abaya styles. That's why it's essential to understand what makes abaya and jilbab different. If you've ever been confused about which one to wear or when to wear it, this guide is for you.
We'll explain everything in simple words. Let's break it down and learn the clear difference between abaya and jilbab.
Definition of Abaya
An Abaya is a long, loose-fitting dress that covers the whole body except the face, hands, and feet. It is usually black and worn by Muslim women to stay modest. Most Abaya designs are simple, but many modern ones include patterns, colors, or embroidery.
Some Abaya girls prefer open-front styles that are easy to wear, while others love pull-over types for extra comfort. In fashion hubs like Dubai, you can find stylish Abaya Dubai collections with a perfect mix of tradition and trend.
You can easily shop for these dresses by looking for Abaya online from trusted places like Waliqsa, where you'll find both everyday and fancy designs made from soft, flowing fabrics.
Definition of Jilbab
A Jilbab is a long outer garment that many Muslim women wear when they go outside. It looks like a long coat or a full-length dress and is often worn over regular clothes. The Jilbab style is usually loose and flowing, which helps cover the body adequately.
Unlike the abaya, which often slips over the head, a Jilbab may have buttons or a zip in the front. Some Jilbab girls like this style because it's easy to wear and looks smart. In fashion-forward places like the UAE, the Dubai Jilbab and UAE Jilbab are designed with both modesty and modern looks in mind.
The Jilbab has cultural meaning, too. It's worn to show respect for Islamic values while still letting a woman dress beautifully. People also call it a jilbab abaya when styles overlap, but it still has its unique features.
Today, girls and women choose the Jilbab style for comfort, faith, and fashion, especially when heading to school, work, or the mosque.
Key Differences Between Abaya and Jilbab
Even though Abaya and Jilbab both cover the body and support modesty, they are not the same. Let's explore their key differences so you can understand which one better suits your needs.
Style and Design Variations
An abaya is usually a loose, open-front, or closed gown. Most abaya designs are simple but elegant, often seen in black with light embroidery. You'll frequently spot an abaya girl wearing it over regular clothes, especially in Dubai abaya fashion.
A Jilbab, on the other hand, comes in a more coat-like shape and often includes a built-in hood or attached scarf. The Jilbab style usually covers the whole body more like a long dress with sleeves and is more common in places like the UAE jilbab fashion.
Whether you prefer jilbab abaya styles or more classic abaya designs, each gives a unique look.
Fabric and Material Differences
Abayas are often made from flowy, light fabrics like chiffon or crepe. This makes them perfect for warm climates, such as in UAE abaya collections. Abaya Dubai styles are primarily known for using breathable material that is both stylish and comfy.
Jilbabs are usually made from slightly thicker material to hold their shape. Dubai jilbab pieces might come with added lining for modest layering. That's why many jilbab girls choose them for winter or prayer time when extra coverage is needed.
Usage in Different Contexts (Daily Wear, Prayer, etc.)
Abayas are often worn for daily wear, shopping, going out, or even formal events. Because they're easy to slip on, many women buy abayas online for everyday use. The abaya and jilbab online market is popular.
Jilbabs, meanwhile, are often used for prayer or specific outings where full coverage is required. A jilbab girl might wear it while going to the mosque or traveling. You can also shop for them easily by searching "jilbab shop near me."
If you're looking to buy modest wear online, we recommend checking out Waliqsa. They offer abayas and jilbabs at a reasonable price with high-quality fabric—perfect for everyday wear and special occasions.
A Guide to Wearing Jilbab and Abaya in UAE
If you want to wear a Jilbab or Abaya in the UAE, it's not just about clothes. These garments show respect for our culture and traditions. This guide will help you wear them comfortably and adequately.
Important Tips for Choosing the Right Fit and Style
When buying an abaya or jilbab, make sure the size fits well. It should cover your body adequately but not be too tight or too loose. In the UAE, most people like simple black abaya designs with light embroidery or small decorations that look nice but are not too flashy.
The jilbab style should be easy to wear, often with a hood or scarf attached. For hot weather, choose light fabric, and for cooler weather, thicker fabric works better. If you buy online, pick trusted stores like Waliqsa that sell good quality fabric at fair prices.
Cultural Considerations and Etiquette
Wearing an abaya or jilbab in the UAE is part of Islamic and local culture. It is essential to wear them in public places like malls, mosques, or government offices. No matter what style you choose, your clothes should be modest and respectful.
Avoid flashy or very tight clothes, as they are not considered appropriate. Simple and plain clothes are best for formal or religious places. Many abaya girls also use different hijab styles and hijab pins to complete their look nicely.
Seasonal Considerations for Wearing These Garments
The UAE is mostly hot, so in summer, wear light and breathable fabrics like chiffon or crepe. These fabrics keep you cool while still covering you properly.
In winter, wear thicker and warmer clothes. Some abaya girls wear layers underneath to stay warm. By choosing the right fabric, a good abaya or jilbab can be worn comfortably in every season.
If you want to know how to wear a hijab stylishly while living in Dubai, click here.
FAQ’s
Is abaya and jilbab the same?
No, the abaya and jilbab are not precisely the same, although they are both modest garments worn by Muslim women. An abaya is usually a long, loose dress that covers the whole body except the face, hands, and feet. It is commonly worn in countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
A jilbab, on the other hand, can be like a long coat or a loose-fitting overgarment. In Islamic texts, jilbab refers to a covering torn over regular clothes when going out to hide one's body shape.
What is the jilbab in Islam?
In Islam, the jilbab is a type of outer garment that Muslim women wear when they go outside. It is meant to cover the body loosely so that the shape is not visible. The word jilbab comes from the Qur'an (Surah Al-Ahzab 33:59), where Allah commands believing women to draw their cloaks (jilbabs) around themselves for modesty.
Is abaya haram in Islam?
No, the abaya is not haram in Islam. In fact, it is widely accepted and even encouraged in many Muslim cultures because it helps women follow Islamic rules of modesty. The abaya is a long, loose dress that adequately covers the body, which is one of the main goals of Islamic clothing.
However, the abaya mustn't be tight, see-through, or too flashy. As long as it covers the body modestly and doesn't attract unnecessary attention, the abaya is perfectly halal (allowed) in Islam.
Why do Muslims wear jilbab?
Muslim women wear the jilbab to obey Allah's command and to practice modesty when they are in public. The jilbab helps respectfully cover the body so that others can focus on a woman's character and not her appearance.
It is also a way for Muslim women to feel safe, respected, and spiritually connected. Wearing the jilbab is a sign of faith, identity, and honor in Islamic culture.
What do Muslims wear under abaya?
Under the abaya, Muslim women can wear regular clothes like dresses, jeans, shirts, or even traditional outfits. The purpose of the abaya is to cover these clothes when a woman is in public.
At home or among other women, they may remove the abaya. So, the clothes underneath can be casual or formal—depending on where she's going. Some women also wear light, breathable layers underneath to stay comfortable in hot weather, especially in places like the UAE or Saudi Arabia.
Conclusion
Abaya and jilbab are both modest garments worn by Muslim women, but they serve different purposes. The abaya is more like a dress, while the jilbab functions as an outer coat. Abayas are often lighter and used for daily wear, while jilbabs provide fuller coverage, which is ideal for prayer or public outings.
Choosing between them depends on style, comfort, and context. In places like the UAE, modest fashion blends tradition with trend. Whether you prefer abaya or jilbab, both reflect faith and identity. Always choose breathable fabrics, proper fit, and trusted stores like Waliqsa for quality Islamic wear that respects your values.
