HOW TO TIE ARABIC EMIRATI HEADGEAR – Dubai & Abu Dhabi Style!

Welcome back, everyone! Eid Mubarak to all those celebrating today! In this quick tutorial, I’m going to show you how to style Emirati headgear—specifically the way it’s worn in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

I've received tons of questions about how to wear this iconic look, especially around Eid, so I’m here to walk you through an updated and easy method. I’ve learned this style firsthand while living here in the UAE, and it’s perfect for the summer months when you want something light and breathable.

Step 1: Choose a Lightweight Shemagh

For the summer heat, it’s important to choose a light, breathable fabric. These are longer shemaghs, and while I don’t have exact measurements, you want something that gives you plenty of material to work with but isn’t too heavy.

Step 2: Fold Into a Triangle

Start by turning your shemagh into a triangle. Once you have the triangle, fold the top edge slightly to create a small band. This fold is crucial because Emirati style usually doesn’t involve wearing a skull cap underneath. The fold will help protect your head from sweat, especially if your hair is thicker or styled.

Step 3: Position It on Your Head

Now, place the shemagh on your head, pulling it down so the edge sits just above your eyebrows. The goal here is to create a loose, comfortable fit—especially during the hot months. You don’t want it too tight, so give it a slight twist and adjust it to your liking.

Step 4: Wrap the Sides

Once the shemagh is in place, wrap one side around your head and tuck it loosely into the fold on the opposite side. Repeat this with the other side, making sure the folds aren’t too tight. This style is meant to look a little looser than other Gulf styles, so don’t worry if it’s not perfect—it should feel relaxed!

Step 5: Spread and Adjust

After you’ve tucked in both sides, spread out the fabric at the back for airflow. This is especially helpful when it’s hot outside, as it allows your head to breathe. Make any final adjustments by smoothing out the fabric or tucking in any stray bits for a neat finish.

Final Look

That’s it! You’ve just styled your shemagh Emirati style, with a laid-back, comfortable look perfect for both Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This method is great for anyone wanting to nail the traditional style with a modern, easy-to-achieve twist. It might take a few tries to get right, but once you do, you’ll be looking sharp in no time.

Final Thoughts

This headgear style is perfect for Eid, or any time you want to channel the classic Emirati vibe. Practice a couple of times, and soon you’ll be able to throw it on with ease. As always, have fun with it, enjoy the process, and look your best for every occasion!