The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a dazzling blend of modernity and tradition. From its glittering skyscrapers to its multicultural communities, the UAE is home to people from across the globe — and among them, the Indian community has brought a rich legacy of culture, cuisine, and clothing.
Indian traditional and ethnic wear has found a strong foothold in the UAE, especially in cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, where the Indian diaspora thrives. Whether it’s a wedding celebration, Diwali, Eid, or a festive event, the demand for Indian ethnic wear — sarees, lehengas, salwar suits, sherwanis, and Indo-Western outfits — continues to soar.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore the Top 5 spots for Indian traditional and ethnic wear in the UAE, along with insights into what makes each store stand out.
Table of Contents
1. Meena Bazaar (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah)
The Legacy of Indian Fashion in UAE
When it comes to Indian fashion in the UAE, Meena Bazaar is an undisputed pioneer. Founded in 1973, Meena Bazaar began as a small retail outlet catering to Indian expatriates and has now evolved into one of the most recognized ethnic fashion brands in the Middle East.
Why Meena Bazaar Tops the List
Wide Range of Apparel: From sarees and salwar suits to bridal lehengas and Indo-Western gowns, Meena Bazaar caters to every age and occasion.
Bridal Couture: Their bridal collection is a must-see, featuring heavily embroidered lehengas, zari sarees, and anarkalis inspired by Indian royalty.
Designer Touch: Meena Bazaar collaborates with Indian designers and artisans, ensuring each outfit is crafted with traditional detailing and modern aesthetics.
Accessibility: With outlets in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, it’s convenient for customers across the UAE.
Top Picks
Banarasi silk sarees
Kanjivaram sarees
Bridal lehengas with intricate zardozi work
Georgette salwar suits
Locations
Bur Dubai – Meena Bazaar Street
Sharjah Rolla Square
Abu Dhabi Hamdan Street
Website: www.meenabazaar.com
2. Studio Moya (Dubai)
Where Art, Craft, and Culture Converge
Studio Moya is a boutique fashion house that celebrates Indian craftsmanship with contemporary flair. The brand focuses on sustainable, handcrafted fashion, making it a favorite among eco-conscious shoppers who value artistry and heritage.
Why Choose Studio Moya
Handcrafted Excellence: Each piece is created by artisans from various Indian states — hand-block prints from Rajasthan, Chikankari embroidery from Lucknow, and ikat weaves from Odisha.
Unique Aesthetic: Their collections blend earthy tones, organic fabrics, and minimalistic designs perfect for both casual and semi-formal wear.
Ethical and Sustainable: They prioritize natural dyes, handloom materials, and fair trade practices.
Top Picks
Linen sarees with hand-embroidered borders
Ajrakh print kurtas
Handwoven dupattas
Minimalistic Indo-Western dresses
Location
Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Dubai
Website: www.studiomoya.com
3. Ritu Kumar (Dubai Mall & Mall of the Emirates)
India’s Leading Designer Label in UAE
When it comes to luxury Indian ethnic wear, Ritu Kumar stands as a symbol of sophistication and tradition. With decades of experience, her brand has become synonymous with heritage craftsmanship, combining India’s rich textile traditions with global design sensibilities.
Why Ritu Kumar is a Must-Visit
Designer Luxury: The label is known for its exquisite bridal couture, regal sarees, and sophisticated evening gowns.
Cultural Fusion: Ritu Kumar beautifully merges traditional embroidery styles with contemporary silhouettes.
Celebrity Favorite: Bollywood stars and brides across the world choose Ritu Kumar for weddings and red-carpet events.
Top Picks
Brocade silk lehengas
Embroidered anarkalis
Hand-painted sarees
Regal sherwanis for men
Locations
The Dubai Mall
Mall of the Emirates
Website: www.ritukumar.com
4. The Saree Shop (Sharjah & Dubai)
Traditional Drapes for Every Occasion
For those who adore the timeless grace of the saree, The Saree Shop in the UAE is a paradise. Specializing in both traditional and designer sarees, the store brings an authentic Indian shopping experience to the Emirates.
Why The Saree Shop Stands Out
Vast Collection: From Kanchipuram silk and Patola to chiffon and georgette sarees, the variety is unmatched.
Affordable Luxury: While they stock high-end bridal sarees, they also cater to daily wear and mid-range buyers.
Personalized Assistance: Knowledgeable staff help customers choose sarees based on complexion, occasion, and draping style.
Top Picks
Bridal Kanjivaram sarees
Designer net sarees
Festive saree collections
Custom blouse stitching service
Locations
Rolla Street, Sharjah
Karama, Dubai
Website: www.thesareeshopuae.com
5. Regal Fabrics and Tailoring (Dubai)
Custom Ethnic Creations at Their Finest
If you prefer customized ethnic wear tailored to your personality, Regal Fabrics and Tailoring is your destination. Established in 1952, this store is one of the UAE’s oldest and most respected textile and tailoring establishments.
Why Regal Fabrics is Special
Premium Fabric Collection: Regal offers a vast selection of Indian textiles — silks, brocades, georgettes, and cottons sourced directly from India.
Bespoke Tailoring: You can design your outfit from scratch — select the fabric, embroidery, and silhouette, and have it crafted to perfection.
For Men and Women: They specialize in both ladies’ ethnic outfits and men’s sherwanis, kurta sets, and Indo-Western suits.
Top Picks
Custom lehengas and anarkalis
Men’s sherwanis and Nehru jackets
Banarasi fabric sarees
Handcrafted dupattas
Location
Al Fahidi Street, Bur Dubai
Website: www.regalfabrics.ae
The Rise of Indian Ethnic Fashion in the UAE
Indian fashion has seamlessly integrated into the UAE’s multicultural landscape. Festivals like Diwali, Eid, Navratri, and Onam are celebrated with enthusiasm, creating a demand for colorful and traditional outfits.
Moreover, Dubai’s fashion-forward residents have embraced Indian attire for events and weddings, making ethnic wear a cross-cultural trend.
Key Factors Behind the Popularity:
Vibrant Indian Diaspora: With millions of Indians living in the UAE, traditional clothing is always in demand.
Cultural Events: From Bollywood nights to Indian weddings, ethnic wear is a part of UAE’s vibrant social calendar.
Luxury Fashion Influence: Indian designer wear now competes with international luxury brands in the UAE’s high-end retail market.
Social Media & Influencers: Fashion influencers in Dubai frequently showcase Indian ensembles on Instagram, adding to their appeal.
Types of Indian Ethnic Wear Popular in UAE
1. Sarees
From silk to chiffon, sarees are a symbol of elegance. Kanchipuram, Banarasi, and designer sarees remain in high demand.
2. Lehengas
Brides and bridesmaids love lehengas for weddings and festive occasions. Stores like Ritu Kumar and Meena Bazaar offer exquisite designs.
3. Salwar Kameez
Comfortable yet classy, salwar suits are a go-to outfit for daily wear and functions.
4. Sherwanis and Kurta Sets
Men’s ethnic fashion has evolved with designer sherwanis, kurtas, and Indo-Western styles dominating wedding wardrobes.
5. Indo-Western Fusion Wear
Mixing traditional elements with modern cuts, Indo-Western outfits appeal to younger generations.
Shopping Tips for Indian Ethnic Wear in the UAE
Know Your Fabric: Choose fabrics suited to UAE’s warm climate—cotton, chiffon, and georgette are perfect for daily wear.
Custom Tailoring: Take advantage of stores offering tailoring services to get the perfect fit.
Festive Discounts: Plan your shopping around festivals like Diwali or Eid for the best deals.
Check Authenticity: Ensure that the store sources its fabrics and embroidery work from reputed Indian craftsmen.
Accessorize Right: Complete your outfit with traditional jewelry, juttis, and clutches available in local Indian markets.
Conclusion: Where Tradition Finds a Global Stage
The UAE is more than just a shopping paradise—it’s a cultural melting pot. Indian ethnic wear thrives here because it resonates with both tradition and modern style. Whether you’re dressing up for a wedding, a festive celebration, or simply embracing your roots, the UAE offers a rich selection of Indian fashion destinations to explore.
From the luxurious halls of Ritu Kumar to the handcrafted charm of Studio Moya, and the timeless elegance of Meena Bazaar, each of these stores tells a story of artistry, heritage, and elegance.
So, the next time you’re in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, step into one of these boutiques and experience the vibrant world of Indian fashion—right in the heart of the Emirates.
FAQs
Q1: Where can I buy authentic Indian bridal wear in Dubai?
You can find premium bridal collections at Ritu Kumar, Meena Bazaar, and Regal Fabrics. They offer both ready-to-wear and custom options for brides.
Q2: Are there affordable options for Indian ethnic wear in the UAE?
Yes, stores like The Saree Shop and Meena Bazaar provide a wide price range catering to both luxury and budget shoppers.
Q3: Can I get custom stitching services in Dubai for Indian outfits?
Absolutely. Regal Fabrics and Tailoring is renowned for bespoke designs and personalized fittings.
Q4: Do these stores sell men’s ethnic wear too?
Yes, most major stores like Meena Bazaar and Regal Fabrics offer sherwanis, kurtas, and Indo-Western wear for men.
Q5: Are these ethnic stores available online?
Yes, almost all mentioned stores have online platforms where you can browse collections and place orders for delivery within the UAE.
