ʿabaʾ

clothing

Also known as: ′abāyah, aba, abaya

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Last updated

July 22, 2026

Quick Summary

The term "aba" refers to a traditional garment worn in the Middle East. It can describe a loose, sleeveless outer garment traditionally worn by men. This garment has ancient origins and is mentioned in the Bible as attire for Hebrew prophets. Historically, it was made of heavy cream-colored wool, often decorated with colorful stripes or embroidery.12

"Abaya" is a related term, referring to a loose-fitting, full-length robe worn by some Muslim women. Both garments are examples of traditional Middle Eastern clothing, which is often loose-fitting and suited to the climate, providing protection from heat and sun. These garments, along with others like the caftan and jellaba, reflect a long history of dress in the region, influenced by various cultures and adapted to local materials and needs.32

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religious dress
Islam
…worn in association with an ʿabāʾ (a long, full garment), traditionally of camel hair and brown or black. This is sometimes secured by a ḥijām, or cummerbund. In this second regional variant, the ʿimāmah becomes a full turban replacing the cap, or fez. A green turban usually denotes a sharīf,…
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…worn in association with an ʿabāʾ (a long, full garment), traditionally of camel hair and brown or black. This is sometimes secured by a ḥijām, or cummerbund. In this second regional variant, the ʿimāmah becomes a full turban replacing the cap, or fez. A green turban usually denotes a sharīf,…
Read More

dress
The Middle East from the 6th century
The aba (ʿabāʾ or abaya) was of ancient origin and is mentioned in the Bible as the attire of Hebrew prophets. It was traditionally made of heavy cream-coloured wool decorated with brightly coloured stripes or embroidery. A voluminous outer gown still worn throughout the Middle East…
Read More
The aba (ʿabāʾ or abaya) was of ancient origin and is mentioned in the Bible as the attire of Hebrew prophets. It was traditionally made of heavy cream-coloured wool decorated with brightly coloured stripes or embroidery. A voluminous outer gown still worn throughout the Middle East…
Read More

Saudi Arabia
Daily life and social customs
…black cloak known as an ʿabāyah is worn. A veil called a hijab covers the head, and another known as a niqāb covers the face. Among Bedouin, women’s clothing is often quite ornate and has traditionally consisted of a beautiful panoply of handcrafted silver jewelry.
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…black cloak known as an ʿabāyah is worn. A veil called a hijab covers the head, and another known as a niqāb covers the face. Among Bedouin, women’s clothing is often quite ornate and has traditionally consisted of a beautiful panoply of handcrafted silver jewelry.
Read More