The Evolution of Emirati Sandals: From Bedouin Necessity to Modern Fashion

Emirati sandals, known in Arabic as naal and in their modern variant naal bu sbaa, represent the most common footwear worn by both Emirati men and women throughout the United Arab Emirates. These distinctive open-toe sandals feature no slingback or strap behind the heel, embodying a design that has remained fundamentally unchanged for centuries while adapting to contemporary fashion demands. This footwear tradition illustrates the broader evolution of Emirati clothing, which maintains aspects of Bedouin life in the Arabian Peninsula while embracing modern luxury and style.

The journey of Emirati sandals from practical desert necessity to contemporary fashion statement reflects the UAE’s own transformation from nomadic Bedouin society to cosmopolitan nation, demonstrating how traditional cultural elements can preserve their essential character while adapting to changing times.

Emirati Footwear in Bedouin Life

The origins of Emirati sandals trace back to the practical needs of Bedouin desert life. Most people did not wear shoes because of the sandy environment, finding barefoot travel more practical across the shifting desert terrain. However, harsh conditions required adaptive solutions for foot protection.

During winter months, Bedouins used to wear heavy socks called ‘zarbool’ made of goat or camel hair to keep their feet warm. These thick, protective foot coverings, also known as zarabil, served multiple purposes beyond warmth. Bedouins used to wear these, thick socks made from goats hair, in the Empty Quarter desert to protect their feet from thorns, snakes and scorpions. Archaeological evidence from museums, including specimens at the National Museum of Oman and the British Museum, confirms the widespread use of these traditional foot coverings across the Arabian Peninsula.

The zarbool represented an ingenious adaptation to desert life, utilizing readily available materials from camels and goats that were central to Bedouin survival. As trade expanded and contact with other cultures increased, the rigid necessity for such heavy protection gave way to more sophisticated footwear solutions.

Practical Design and Function

The distinctive design of Emirati sandals emerged from practical requirements that remain relevant today. Shoes had to be taken off during prayer times, which is five times a day, hence they had to be easy to slip on and slip off. This fundamental Islamic requirement shaped the sandal’s backless design, allowing for quick removal during the five daily prayers.

Climate considerations were equally important in determining the sandal’s form. Arab sandals were made open-toed because wearing socks and enclosed shoes is not comfortable in hot, humid climates. The open design allows airflow around the foot, preventing excessive sweating and discomfort during long periods of wear in desert heat. It’s good to let your feet breathe, especially when there is a lot of walking to do on a regular basis.

The flat sole construction proved ideal for walking on sand, providing stability without the bulk that would collect desert particles. The strapless design prevents sand accumulation that could cause irritation, while the durable leather construction withstands the abrasive desert environment. These practical considerations created a footwear design perfectly adapted to both the physical and spiritual demands of life in the Arabian Peninsula.

Trade and Cultural Influences

The development of the modern naal resulted from cultural exchange along ancient Arabian trade routes. Trade routes played a huge role in how we do things, facilitating the movement of not only goods but also ideas and technologies across the region. The original open-toe design was inspired by the Indian travelers, and the Arab craftsmen then altered it to fit the environment and needs of the Arabs.

The design for open-toe sandals came from India. However, when they broke down due to wear and tear, they were taken for repairs to local craftsmen, who would use little metal rings to stitch them back in place, which lent it that signature look. This repair process inadvertently created distinctive aesthetic elements that became hallmarks of Arabian sandal design.

The Arabian Peninsula’s position as a crucial link between Asian and African trade networks exposed local craftsmen to diverse footwear traditions. Persian, East African, and Mediterranean influences merged with Indian designs and local practical requirements. This cross-cultural fertilization occurred over centuries, as merchants, pilgrims, and traders brought their own footwear traditions while adopting local adaptations.

This gave way to “Naal” – what Al Mheiri describes as all-season footwear that is the most popular style with Emiratis today. The evolution continued with the ‘naal bu sbaa’, where the big toe is separated from other toes with a piece of leather over it, with the rest of the foot covered with a wing-shaped piece of leather.

Symbolism and Social Significance

Emirati sandals transcended mere functionality to become symbols of cultural identity and social connection. The sandals formed an integral part of traditional Emirati male attire when worn with the Emirati kandura, creating a complete cultural ensemble that announced the wearer’s heritage and values. This pairing represented more than fashion choice; it embodied a connection to ancestral traditions and Islamic principles.

Buying or gifting a brand-new pair of sandals on the occasion of Eid has been a tradition for generations and this is something we look forward to. This Eid tradition reinforced family bonds and cultural continuity, with new sandals marking religious celebrations and life transitions. The practice connected footwear to spiritual observance and community belonging.

The sandals also symbolized Islamic values of humility and modesty. Mens Arabic sandals are not flashy or expensive, preventing you from feeling better than others. This philosophical approach to footwear reflected broader Islamic teachings about simplicity and equality before God. Muslims idealize their prophet, and they do not miss any opportunity to follow his lead in every matter of their personal and communal lives. The prophet of Islam was seen wearing sandals on more than one occasion.

Modern Evolution: From Necessity to Style

The late 20th and early 21st centuries witnessed the transformation of Emirati sandals from utilitarian necessity to luxury fashion statement. They were seen as an item of necessity in the past, but today they are a statement of style. This evolution coincided with the UAE’s rapid economic development and growing cultural confidence.

Local luxury brands emerged to elevate traditional designs. Albatar, founded by Salem Al Remeithi, exemplifies this trend. Founded in Abu Dhabi, ALBATAR draws inspiration from the rich traditions of the U.A.E., fusing Emirati heritage with the pulse of global fashion. Each sandal is meticulously designed by award-winning creatives in London and New York, blending contemporary artistry with timeless style.

Tamashee, co-founded by Mohammed Kazim and Muneera Al Tamimi in 2013, pursued similar goals of cultural preservation through modern design. Other prominent local brands include Almandoos, which has operated since 1986, and various boutique manufacturers who maintain traditional craftsmanship while incorporating contemporary materials and aesthetic refinements.

International luxury fashion houses recognized the growing market for Arabic sandals. In 2013, a famous Italian shoe designer, Cesare Paciotti, introduced a special class of Arabic sandals for the UAE market. Another major player who appeared on the scenes was Berluti, who released limited-edition Ramadan sandals back in 2017 that attracted huge attention. Other brands like Tod’s, Givenchy, and Loro Piana have also launched their own versions of the classic Arabic sandals.

The Sandal Today

Contemporary Emirati sandals maintain their traditional core characteristics while incorporating modern improvements in materials, construction techniques, and aesthetic refinement. Premium Italian leather is now selected specifically “suited for our weather conditions and uniquely relevant to our diverse culture and heritage within the region”, while traditional hand-crafting methods continue with signature details like braided cotton waxed threading that signifies authentic production.

The UAE’s luxury footwear market, valued at US$181.70 million and projected to grow by 4.17% through 2028, reflects increasing demand for premium sandals. Local brands including Almandoos, Tamashee, and Albatar have emerged as leaders in combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design innovations. Fashion publications are calling 2025 “the year of the strappy sandal”, with major international fashion houses like Hermès and Prada incorporating Arabic-inspired sandal designs in their collections.

The sandals remain versatile across social contexts, complementing both traditional kanduras and contemporary business attire. This adaptability ensures continued relevance in the UAE’s multicultural, modern society, while brands like Tamashee create vibrant colors and unique patterns that appeal to both locals and tourists.

The sandals also serve important educational and tourism functions, introducing visitors to Emirati cultural heritage through heritage village demonstrations and museum exhibits. The UAE’s extensive cultural infrastructure, including heritage sites and cultural centers, features traditional sandal displays that explain their historical significance and demonstrate craftsmanship techniques to preserve these traditions for future generations.