A made-to-measure jalabiya or kaftan from Naima Couture is cut to your measurements in silk, chiffon or crepe and embroidered by hand at the neckline, cuffs and front. Women wear them for henna nights, wedding gatherings, Eid, Ramadan and family visits. Most take six to ten weeks, depending on the embroidery.
How booking works
- 1Message us on WhatsApp Your date, emirate and the looks you need.
- 2Private consultation At our Dubai atelier or by video call.
- 3Design and quotation Sketches, fabrics and a written quote.
- 4Fittings and delivery Two to four fittings, finished by hand.
What is the difference between a jalabiya and a kaftan?
Both are long, loose robes. In the Gulf, “jalabiya” (جلابية) usually means a richly embroidered robe worn for occasions such as henna nights and Eid, while “kaftan” covers a wider range of styles, from simple house-wear to formal Moroccan-style pieces with a fitted waist. We make both, and the names often overlap. For Eid and Ramadan timing, see our Eid and Ramadan kaftans guide.
Which styles do we make?
Emirati and Gulf jalabiya: straight or slightly flared, with dense embroidery on the chest panel and cuffs. Green and gold for the henna night is the best-known version; the green custom became widespread in the UAE only from the late 1980s [source].
Farasha (butterfly) kaftan: a wide, flowing cut with sleeves that open like wings. Light and cool, ideal for long evenings.
Moroccan-style kaftan: a more structured cut with a defined waist, often with a belt and fine braid trim along the front.
Thobe-style overlay: a sheer, embroidered outer layer worn over a simple slip dress, for a dramatic henna-night look.
embroidering women's clothes using brightly coloured threads
How is a bespoke jalabiya embroidered?
By hand, and placed where it will be seen: the neckline, the front opening, the cuffs and the hem. Metallic thread, crystals, pearls and sequins are the most common materials. We also take inspiration from Al Talli, the Emirati braided embroidery that UNESCO inscribed on its List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding in 2022 [source]. Read what Al Talli is to see how it traditionally edges sleeves and collars.
Which fabrics keep a jalabiya cool?
Silk chiffon, georgette and light crepe over a breathable silk lining. Henna nights and summer gatherings are warm: the National Center of Meteorology recorded 51.8°C in Al Ain on 1 August 2025 [source]. For winter evenings, heavier crepe or velvet works well. Keep sleeves practical if henna is being applied, so the embroidery stays clear of wet paste.
When do women wear a made-to-measure jalabiya?
| Occasion | Typical choice |
|---|---|
| Henna night | Green or gold, dense embroidery, wide sleeves |
| Wedding guest at a women's celebration | Jewel tones, crystal work, matching shayla |
| Ramadan iftar and suhoor | Soft colours, lighter embroidery, comfortable cut |
| Eid | New piece, richer embroidery, often coordinated with family |
| Family visits after a wedding | Pastel or ivory, fine embroidery |
Modest dressing is a large and growing market: the State of the Global Islamic Economy report estimates Muslim consumer spending on modest fashion at about $347 billion in 2024 [source].
How far ahead should I order?
Six to ten weeks for one piece, longer for heavy embroidery or matching pieces for a family. Before Ramadan and Eid, ateliers across the region fill up, so order earlier. For a henna night, plan it three to four months ahead together with the bridal gown; our henna night guide explains why.
From the atelier
Recent commissions. Tap any photo to enlarge.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a made-to-measure jalabiya take?
Usually six to ten weeks, depending on how much hand embroidery it has.
Can you make matching jalabiyas for my family?
Yes. We design coordinated pieces for mothers, daughters and sisters, often from one palette with different embroidery.
Can I bring my own fabric?
Yes. Bring it to the consultation and we will tell you honestly what it suits.
Do you make jalabiyas for henna nights only?
No. We make them for weddings, Eid, Ramadan, family visits and any occasion where a long, elegant robe suits.
Can a jalabiya be made modest enough for a mixed gathering?
Yes. We line sheer fabrics fully, keep the neckline high and design a matching shayla.
Sources
- The Zay Initiative, UAE dress collection: embellished paneled overgarment with train (object record)Primary source
- UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee decision 17.COM 7.B.32: Al Talli, traditional embroidery skills in the United Arab Emirates (2022)Primary source
- National Center of Meteorology reading (1 Aug 2025), as reported by Gulf NewsReport of official data
- State of the Global Islamic Economy 2025/26 Report: modest fashion, as reported by Salaam GatewayReport of official data