How Much Does an Abaya Dress Cost?

When I first began shopping for an abaya, I was amazed at the wide variety of prices. It seemed like the options were endless, ranging from budget-friendly everyday wear to luxurious designer pieces. The experience made me realize that understanding the cost of an abaya isn’t just about the price tag—it’s about knowing what you’re paying for. Whether you're purchasing your first abaya or looking to expand your collection, it’s important to understand the factors that influence the price.

The abaya is much more than a simple garment. For many women across the world, it’s a symbol of modesty, religious devotion, and cultural identity. Traditionally, the abaya is associated with the Gulf region, but over time, it has become a staple of modest fashion globally. As fashion evolves, so do abaya designs, moving from the classic black to stunning pieces that feature embroidery, beadwork, and luxurious fabrics. These changes in style, material, and craftsmanship all contribute to the varying costs of abayas today.

In this guide, we’ll take a detailed look at the price range of abayas and what influences those costs. We’ll cover everything from budget-friendly styles to more luxurious designs, along with where to find them. Whether you’re working within a budget or seeking a more high-end piece, this price guide will help you make informed decisions about your next abaya purchase.

Understanding the Abaya: A Simple Guide

The abaya is a long, loose dress worn by many Muslim women. It covers the whole body, except for the face, hands, and feet. The abaya is usually black and is often worn with a headscarf (hijab) or face veil (niqab). It is a symbol of modesty in Islamic culture.

What is an Abaya?

An abaya is a robe-like dress. It is designed to cover a woman’s body in public. The purpose is to help women dress modestly, as taught in Islam. Abayas are often simple, but they can also have beautiful designs.

History of the Abaya

The abaya has been worn for centuries. It became popular as Islam spread in the Middle East. For many women, the abaya is a sign of modesty, respect, and privacy. It shows their devotion to their faith and culture.

Why Women Wear Abayas

Many women wear the abaya by choice. It is a way to respect their religion and culture. In some places, wearing an abaya is common for everyone. In other places, it is more of a personal choice. Women wear it to follow their beliefs and stay connected to their roots.

Modern Abaya Styles

Today, abayas come in many styles. The traditional black abaya is still popular, but new designs are also common. Some abayas are colorful and have embroidery, lace, or sequins. Women can choose abayas that suit different occasions, from everyday wear to special events. Fashion designers are now creating more stylish abayas, blending tradition with modern fashion.

How to Choose an Abaya

When picking an abaya, there are a few things to consider:

• Fabric: Lightweight materials like chiffon or cotton are great for warm weather. For colder climates, heavier fabrics are better.
• Fit: The abaya should be loose but comfortable. It should allow easy movement while staying modest.
• Occasion: Simple abayas work for daily wear. More detailed abayas are often worn for celebrations or formal events.

The Abaya Around the World

As Islam has spread, the abaya has become popular in many countries. Muslim women living in non-Muslim areas often wear abayas as a sign of their faith. The abaya is now worn by women in many different cultures. It is no longer just a regional garment but a global one.

The abaya is also becoming a part of the fashion world. Designers are creating abayas that mix tradition with modern trends. This makes the abaya both a religious garment and a fashion statement.

Understanding the Factors That Influence Abaya Dress Prices

The price of an abaya can vary greatly depending on several factors. Whether you're looking for a simple, everyday abaya or a luxury piece for special occasions, it's helpful to know what influences the cost. In this post, we'll explore the key factors that affect abaya prices, such as fabric quality, design complexity, brand, and more.

Fabric Quality

The fabric used in an abaya plays a big role in its price. Some fabrics are more affordable, while others are costly due to their quality and feel.

• Polyester: This is one of the most common materials. It's affordable, durable, and easy to care for, making it a popular choice for everyday abayas. However, it’s not as luxurious as other options.
• Silk: Silk abayas are on the higher end of the price range. Silk is soft, shiny, and very comfortable, but it’s also more expensive due to its delicate nature.
• Chiffon: This lightweight fabric is often used for fancier abayas. It adds elegance and is often layered for a flowing effect. The price is mid-range, depending on the quality of the chiffon.
• Cotton: Cotton is breathable and great for casual wear, especially in hot climates. It’s not as expensive as silk but still more costly than polyester due to its natural feel and comfort.

Design Complexity

Another key factor is the design complexity. Some abayas are simple, while others are intricately designed.

• Handmade vs. Machine-made: Handmade abayas take more time and effort to create, which makes them more expensive. Machine-made abayas are faster to produce and generally cheaper.
• Embellishments: Extra details like embroidery, beading, or lacework can increase the price significantly. These embellishments require skilled craftsmanship and time, adding to the overall cost. The more intricate the work, the higher the price.

Brand and Designer Labels

Like most fashion items, brand and designer labels influence abaya prices.

• High-end Designer Abayas: Abayas from luxury brands or well-known designers can be very expensive. These abayas often feature unique designs, high-quality fabrics, and exclusive embellishments.
• Mass-Produced Options: Abayas that are mass-produced by factories are generally more affordable. They lack the exclusivity of designer pieces but can still be stylish and well-made.

Geographic Location

The price of abayas can also change based on where you buy them. Geographic location plays a big role in how much you will pay.

• Middle East: In countries like Saudi Arabia or the UAE, where abayas are worn daily, you’ll find a wide range of prices. There are affordable options for daily wear and high-end abayas for special occasions.
• Western Countries: Abayas sold in Western countries are often more expensive. This is partly due to import costs and a smaller market. However, some Western designers also create unique abayas, which can drive up the price.

Customization

Customization is another factor that influences price. Some women prefer tailor-made abayas, while others buy off-the-rack.

• Tailor-Made Abayas: If you want a custom abaya that fits your exact measurements or has a specific design, it will cost more. Tailoring takes time, and personalized designs often use higher-quality materials.
• Off-the-Rack Abayas: These are pre-made and sold in stores. While they are more affordable, they may not have the perfect fit or personal touch of a custom-made abaya.

Materials and Accessories

Finally, materials and accessories can also affect the overall price.

• Belts, Headscarves, and Matching Accessories: Some abayas come with matching belts or headscarves, which can increase the price. High-quality or custom-made accessories often add to the overall cost of the outfit.
• Additional Fabrics or Layers: Abayas that feature extra layers of fabric or unique materials like velvet or satin will cost more due to the increased production cost.

Abaya Dress Price Ranges: What to Expect

The price of an abaya can vary greatly depending on the quality, design, and brand. Whether you're looking for a simple everyday piece or a luxurious designer abaya, it’s helpful to know the general price ranges and what you can expect at each level. In this post, we’ll break down abaya prices into three categories: budget-friendly, mid-range, and luxury.

Budget-Friendly Abayas (Under $50)

If you're on a tight budget, there are plenty of affordable abaya options available for under $50. These abayas are usually made from cheaper fabrics like polyester or cotton blends. While they may not have the intricate designs or high-end materials of more expensive abayas, they are perfect for everyday wear or casual occasions.

• Design: Simple designs with minimal or no embellishments. Most are machine-made to keep production costs low.
• Fabrics: Typically made from lightweight, durable materials like polyester or rayon. These fabrics are easy to care for but not as luxurious as more expensive options.
• Where to Buy: You can find budget-friendly abayas at local markets, discount stores, and online shops. Websites like Ayesha’s Collection offer a wide selection of cheap abayas.

Mid-Range Abayas ($50 - $150)

In the mid-range price category, you’ll find abayas that offer a balance between quality and affordability. These abayas are perfect for those who want something stylish and durable without spending too much.

• Design: More intricate designs with some embellishments like embroidery or simple lacework. The craftsmanship is better than budget options, and some may even be handmade.
• Fabrics: Expect to see higher-quality fabrics like chiffon, cotton, or silk blends. These materials offer better comfort and durability.
• Occasions: Mid-range abayas are ideal for those looking for something special without breaking the bank. They are great for work, casual gatherings, or even semi-formal events.
• Where to Buy: You can find mid-range abayas at specialty abaya stores, fashion boutiques, or online retailers. Websites like  Ayesha’s Collection  or local stores in Middle Eastern countries offer a variety of mid-range options.

Luxury and Designer Abayas

For those who want the best of the best, luxury abayas can go much higher. These abayas are often crafted by top-tier designers, offering exceptional quality, unique designs, and exclusivity.

• Design: Luxury abayas often feature intricate hand-stitched embroidery, detailed beading, and exclusive embellishments. Many are one-of-a-kind or part of limited collections, making them highly sought after.
• Fabrics: These abayas are made from premium materials like pure silk, high-grade chiffon, or velvet. The fabrics feel luxurious, soft, and comfortable, providing an elegant look.
• Craftsmanship: The attention to detail is unmatched. Many luxury abayas are handmade by skilled artisans, ensuring high-quality stitching and flawless finishing.
• Where to Buy: Designer abayas are available at high-end fashion boutiques, exclusive online retailers or directly from the designer. Brands like Ayesha's Collection are known for their high-end abaya collections.

Where to Buy Abaya Dresses at Different Price Points

Abaya dresses are available at a wide range of prices, and where you buy them can greatly influence the cost and quality. In this post, we’ll explore different options for buying abayas, from local markets to designer stores, and what you can expect at each price point.

Local Markets and Boutiques

Local markets and small boutiques are great places to find affordable abayas, especially in areas where abayas are commonly worn. Shopping in person offers a few key benefits.

• Benefits of Buying In-Person: When you shop at a local market or boutique, you can see and feel the fabric before purchasing. This helps you judge the quality of the abaya more accurately. You also have the chance to try it on to ensure the perfect fit. Additionally, shopping in person allows you to interact with the sellers, which can be helpful if you’re looking for specific styles or customizations.
• Negotiating Prices: In many local markets, especially in Middle Eastern countries, haggling is common. You can often negotiate a lower price, especially if you're buying more than one abaya. Bargaining can help you get a good deal, but remember to be respectful and polite when doing so.

Online Retailers

The convenience of online shopping has made it easier than ever to buy abayas from all over the world. There are plenty of online retailers offering a wide variety of abayas at different price points, from budget-friendly to luxury options.

• Popular Websites: For affordable and mid-range options, you can check out online website like Ayesha’s Collection offer a wide range of abayas in different styles.
• Pros of Online Shopping: The biggest advantage of online shopping is convenience. You can browse hundreds of styles from the comfort of your home, and many websites offer free shipping or returns. Online platforms also offer customer reviews, which can help you make an informed choice.
• Cons of Online Shopping: The downside to buying online is that you can’t touch the fabric or try the abaya on before purchasing. There’s also a risk that the actual product might not match the photos. Be sure to check the return policies and customer reviews before buying to avoid disappointment.

Custom and Designer Stores

If you’re looking for something unique or high-end, custom orders and designer stores are your best bet. These options offer high-quality fabrics, intricate designs, and personalized service, but they also come at a higher price.

• How to Approach Custom Orders: When ordering a custom abaya, it’s important to be clear about your needs and preferences. Visit the store or designer with a clear idea of what you want, including fabric, color, and design elements. Custom abayas can take time to create, so be prepared for a waiting period. Tailors and designers may also charge more for specialized work, but the result is a unique abaya made just for you.
• Where to Find Designer Abayas: For luxury abayas, high-end fashion boutiques and exclusive designers offer premium options. You can find designer abayas both in stores and through their official websites or high-end online retailers.

Price Comparison by Region: Where to Buy Abayas Around the World

The price of an abaya can vary depending on where you are in the world. Factors like local demand, import costs, and cultural preferences all affect pricing. In this post, we’ll compare abaya prices in different regions, including the Middle East, Western countries, and Asia, to help you understand what to expect when shopping for an abaya.

Middle East (Saudi Arabia, UAE, etc.)

The Middle East, especially countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, is known for having a wide range of abaya options. Abayas are worn daily by many women, so you’ll find plenty of choices from budget-friendly to high-end luxury options.

• Average Prices: In Saudi Arabia, you can find basic abayas for as low as $30 to $50 in local markets or smaller boutiques. Mid-range abayas typically cost around $100 to $200, while designer abayas from high-end stores can go up to $500 or more.
• Popular Places to Shop: Some of the most popular places to buy abayas in the Middle East include large shopping malls, local markets, and specialty boutiques. In cities like Dubai, you can also find international designer abayas in luxury malls such as The Dubai Mall or Mall of the Emirates.

Western Countries (USA, UK, Europe)

In Western countries like the USA, UK, and parts of Europe, abayas are less common, which affects the price. Import costs, local demand, and fashion preferences contribute to higher prices for abayas in these regions.

• Price Differences: In Western countries, abayas are usually more expensive due to import fees and the smaller market. Basic abayas may start around $60 to $100, while mid-range options can cost between $150 to $300. High-end or designer abayas can go beyond $500, especially if they are imported or custom-made.
• Style Preferences: Western buyers often prefer abayas with modern designs that blend tradition with fashion. This can drive up prices, especially for designer brands that cater to this market.
• Where to Shop: You can find abayas at specialty Islamic clothing stores, online retailers, and some department stores that cater to Muslim communities. Popular online platforms like Ayesha’s Collection also offer a wide range of abayas in different price ranges.

Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia, etc.)

In countries like Malaysia and Indonesia, where the Muslim population is large, abayas are widely available and usually more affordable. The demand is high, and local production helps keep costs down.

• Affordable Options: In Southeast Asia, you can find abayas for as low as $20 to $40 in local markets or online. Mid-range abayas typically cost around $50 to $100, depending on the fabric and design. Luxury abayas are less common, but custom-made or imported ones can cost upwards of $200.
• Popular Places to Shop: Shopping malls and markets in cities like Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta are great places to find affordable abayas. 

Conclusion

The cost of an abaya depends on factors like fabric, design, and where you buy it. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly option or a luxury designer piece, there’s an abaya for every price range. When shopping, consider your needs, budget, and personal style preferences to find the perfect abaya. For more tips on finding the best abaya deals or to explore trusted retailers, sign up for our newsletter and get exclusive updates on where to shop.

FAQ

How much is the most expensive abaya?
The most expensive abayas can reach up to several thousand dollars, especially if they are from luxury designers or feature intricate hand-embroidered details, crystals, or precious materials. Some high-end designer abayas can cost upwards of $10,000 or more.

How do I choose an abaya?
When choosing an abaya, consider the occasion, your comfort, and your personal style. Look for quality fabrics like silk or chiffon for formal wear, or lightweight materials like cotton or polyester for everyday use. Also, consider the fit—opt for an abaya that suits your body type and provides the right amount of coverage while allowing ease of movement.

What is the difference between abaya and burqa?
The abaya is a long, loose-fitting garment that covers the body, typically worn with a headscarf, but it leaves the face uncovered. The burqa, on the other hand, is a full-body covering that includes a veil for the face, with only a mesh screen for the eyes.

Which country is famous for abaya?
Saudi Arabia is most famous for the abaya, as it is a traditional garment widely worn by women there. Abayas are also common in other Gulf countries, such as the UAE, Kuwait, and Qatar, where they are considered a symbol of modesty and cultural identity.

Why are abayas so expensive?
Abayas can be expensive due to several factors, including the quality of the fabric, the complexity of the design, and whether they are handmade or mass-produced. Designer abayas, which feature luxury materials, detailed craftsmanship, and brand prestige, also command higher prices.

Is abaya only for Muslims?
While the abaya is traditionally worn by Muslim women as a symbol of modesty, it is not exclusively for Muslims. Some women from other cultures wear abayas as a fashionable and modest clothing choice, especially in regions where the abaya is common.

What size is a 52 abaya?
A size 52 abaya typically refers to the length of the abaya in inches, measured from the shoulder to the hem. A size 52 would be ideal for someone whose height (measured from shoulder to ankle) is approximately 5'2" to 5'4". Always check size charts, as sizing can vary by brand.

At what age do girls start wearing abaya?
In many cultures, girls begin wearing the abaya when they reach puberty, as part of practicing modesty in accordance with Islamic guidelines. However, this varies depending on family, cultural practices, and personal preference.

Is abaya mentioned in Quran?
The abaya itself is not specifically mentioned in the Quran. However, the Quran instructs women to dress modestly, and the abaya has become a cultural and traditional interpretation of this guideline in many Muslim societies.

Is it Haram to not wear a burqa?
Wearing a burqa is not obligatory (fard) in Islam. Modesty is emphasized, and the specific garments women choose vary by cultural practices. Many Muslim scholars agree that wearing a headscarf or hijab fulfills the modesty requirement, though some communities may have stricter interpretations.

What is abaya called in English?
In English, the abaya is often referred to simply as a "cloak" or "robe." However, it is generally known by its original name, "abaya," as there is no exact translation that captures its cultural and religious significance.