UAE National Day Abaya Collection, A Tribute from the Heart
Every year, as the UAE prepares for its National Day celebrations, I find myself returning to a place of deep emotion and pride. December 2nd is not just a date, it is a moment that reminds me of my heritage and the gratitude I feel toward this country. This season always brings me the same familiar excitement, the creation of thowby’s UAE National Day Abaya Collection. What begins as a simple sketch grows into something meaningful, a personal tribute to the spirit of the Emirates expressed through modest fashion. Every year I present my unique collections proudly and this year, it has been extra special for me. I’m extremely proud of all the designs that came out so perfectly. They are so versatile that you can wear them all year round.
I completely gave it my all by bringing together the colors and symbols that define the UAE. I spent time working on the balance between heritage and the simple, classic lines that represent thowby. I explored different patterns and embroidery styles until each abaya carried its own story. Moving between black crepe, off-white shades, leafy vines, floral motifs and clean tailoring, the collection took form in a natural way that felt true to the national identity and also my creative representation as a fashion entrepreneur.
This year, my heart was completely drawn to the vine and leaf motifs that define the Al Emarat Collection. There is something quietly powerful about the way these patterns flow across the fabric, almost like they’re carrying the story of the nation within every stitch. The off-white Alya Abaya became one of my personal joys to create, with its soft crepe base and graceful leafy embroidery in the UAE colors placed along the front and cuffs. It feels bright, grounded and effortless to wear, especially for women who prefer a refined look that still celebrates the moment.
On the deeper side of the palette, the black Nouf Abaya brings the same embroidery to life in a more striking way. The vines stand out beautifully against the dark fabric, giving the UAE National Day abaya a presence that is subtle but confident. It is the kind of piece that doesn’t need anything extra; the craftsmanship speaks for itself. And for those who remember last year’s Al Emarat Abaya Set and Emarat Abaya, you may see hints of that evolution here. Those pieces were stepping stones, and this year, the embroidery itself became the heart of the story.
But the collection extends far beyond just the colours. I used the UAE flag colors in a gentle way so the design feels natural rather than bold. For clients who prefer a lighter and more delicate look, the Shojoun Abaya and Mira Abaya bring in floral clusters that create a soft patriotic mood.
To complete the Al Emarat Collection, I included pieces that reflect thowby’s commitment to simple elegance. The tailored Joori Abaya, the effortless Mimi Abaya, the loved Eida Abaya, the polished Jawaher Abaya and the refined Al Anoud Abaya each offer a style that complements National Day without feeling overwhelming. These designs represent what I believe in, quality, modesty and quiet confidence. They work beautifully for National Day but will remain meaningful pieces long after the celebration.
What sets this collection apart for me is the intention behind every stitch. I chose premium crepe and nada fabrics for their graceful drape and light feel. Each embroidery choice highlights the national colors in a way that stays modest and true to thowby’s style. Whether through stripes, vines, florals or simple tailoring, every detail reflects my admiration for the UAE and my respect for the women who will wear these abayas.
The thowby woman carries herself with ease and confidence. When she wears a UAE National Day abaya from the Al Emarat Collection, the piece becomes her statement. I always encourage pairing it with simple accessories and neutral tones to let the embroidery and the national colors speak for themselves. True elegance does not need to be loud. It only needs to be sincere.
As the UAE celebrates its unity and progress, I am grateful to offer a collection created with love, respect and appreciation. The UAE National Day Abayas stand not only as National Day pieces but as symbols of pride. They honor the past, celebrate the present and inspire the future. In every vine, crystal and floral motif, there is a quiet connection to the Emirates, one I hope every woman feels as she wears these designs.
Explore the full Al Emarat Collection here and celebrate this National Day with elegance,
See Full Collection
- Houda, Founder @ thowby
