It’s officially the sandal season in the UAE and if one of your goals is to elevate your abaya look with footwear that is not only stylish but heatproof and comfortable, then this article is for you.

In this article, we’d be considering top shoe picks you should consider to take your abaya outfit from basic to premium without any discomfort.

Strappy Flat Sandals : Chic plus Comfort

Strappy sandals

These strappy flat sandals are designed to frame your look in a way that your abaya still takes the center stage.

You’d want to consider shades that are timeless like tan, cream or metallic gold. These sandals don’t only add a touch of elegance to your abaya, they also add a touch of softness and femininity to your entire look.

They are perfect for brunches, date nights or light shopping.

Why you should consider them:

• The slim straps keep things airy so your feet don’t overheat.
• They complement both relaxed linen abayas and evening-ready silk styles so whatever you decide to go with, you’re covered.
• You can easily dress up or down. Add strappy sandals to elevate a plain black abaya or keep it casual with earth-toned pieces.

Pro tip: To take it up a notch, add a soft anklet or minimalist toe ring. It adds a layer of personality without stealing the show.

 Mule Slides: Perfect Regardless of Location

Mule slides

If you want the sandal that provides both comfort and a runway kind of energy, mule slides are your go-to. They are cushioned, very easy to put on and enhance your everyday look from random shopping to full-blown dinner dates.

Why you should consider them:

• The cushioned sole keeps you walking in comfort all day especially if you need to quickly visit the mall or as you commute to and from work.
• Choosing embroidered or studded versions form a subtle contrast with minimalist abayas.
• They look effortlessly chic when your abaya peeks at ankle level just right.

Pro tip: Pair them with a lightweight printed abaya or embroidered sleeves for a flawless indoor-outdoor balance.

Wedge Espadrilles: Height That Doesn’t Hurt

Wedge Espadrilles

If you are that girl that wants added height for a look but doesn’t want the pain of stilettos, then wedge Espadrilles are your savior.

They add length to your look, over more support and are extremely comfortable making them ideal for elevating your abaya for special occasions.

Why you should consider them:

• The supportive wedge keeps you stable in Dubai’s summer heat.
• Natural jute sole adds a Mediterranean summer vibe.
• They go perfectly well under lace-trimmed abayas or kimono-style overlays.

Pro tip: A neutral wedge pairs amazingly with flowing abayas in warm hues like olive, beige, or cream.

Chunky Sandals: Edgy, Modest, and Totally in Vogue

Chunky sandals

These sandals are for the girlies who want a rugged vibe and cool girl edge. With thick soles, bold straps and an unapologetic aura, these are for the tech-savvy girls who just want to look cool.

Why you should consider them:

• Chunky sandals add height and comfort without feeling too feminine.
• They pair beautifully with sporty abayas, kimono silhouettes, or bomber-style layers.
• These sandals are a perfect balance of both street style and modest fashion. Edgy but respectful of the aesthetic in the summer heat.

Pro tip: Pair with a structured crossbody bag and minimal gold jewelry for balance.

 Pointed-Toe Flats: Sharpen Up Your Work or Event Look

Pointed-Toe flats

For days when you want to look more formal or for work, pointed-toe flats give off that sleek, corporate look. They elongate your foot and enhance your look so it feels more refined and luxurious.

Why you should consider them:

• Sharp toes upscale any outfit, from crisp to darker abayas and monochrome sets.
• Neutral pastels or blush tones soften strong lines without losing professionalism.
• Protective toe shape means less chance of stubbing your toes in open architecture.

Pro tip: A pointed flat works wonders with tailored abayas like cinched waists and minimalist accessories.

Jelly Sandals: Blend of Nostalgic + Modern

Jelly sandals

When you think of jelly Sandals, what should come to mind is a combination of the 90s retro and metallic buzz-worthy textures.

They are a comeback that balance the past and present perfectly, are super playful but still refined to elevate your abaya.

Why you should consider them:

• They are playful and nostalgic, yet elevated in neutral or hooped metallic tones.
• They are very easy to clean and water-ready just in case you need to hit the beach.
• They offer a fun twist to simple abayas, especially transparent or nude styles.

Pro tip: Use them to add a bright pop in an otherwise soft-toned outfit or keep it monochrome with clear strappy jelly pairs.

Flip-Flops & Heeled Variants: Summer Luxury Done Right

Flip-flops

Flip-flops are no longer casual. Jelly flip-flops or the heeled versions take your abaya looking from a zero to a hundred while keeping your feet completely cool. Talk about a win-win situation.

Why you should consider them:

• Slight heel gives a polished silhouette while keeping things breezy.
• It could pass for both a day and night outfit.
• Perfect with long-line abayas, you get elevation without discomfort.

Pro tip: Pair with a tailored abaya silhouette and minimal jewelry for that effortlessly refined look.

 Espadrille Mary Janes: Trendy, Supportive, Elegant

Espadrilles Mary Janes

Mary Jane espadrilles combines a closed-toe with an ankle strap and a jute-lined sole. The perfect combination of classic charm with understated elegance.

Why you should consider them:

• They are supportive yet breathable and are great for longer wear.
• Perfect with pencil-cut abayas, skirted ones, or abaya dresses with texture details.
• The strap gives just enough femininity to balance the modest look.

Pro tip: Choose neutral tones to match any abaya in your closet.

Final Tips to Step Up

• Prioritise breath through fabrics: Leather, cotton, mesh, or jute. Choose airy materials for hot days.
• Balance the contrast: Dark abayas pop with glitter sandals; light abayas glow with nude or pastel tones.
• Give your toes some TLC: Summer sandal season means sandal-ready feet so make sure to keep the polish fresh!

Conclusion

This summer, your abaya is your statement and your shoes? They’re the finishing touch that can either make or break your look.

So whether you’ve got flats, mules, wedges, chunky soles, or playful jellies, each pair gives your look a personality boost. Step into summer with confidence, comfort, and all the style because your feet (and your abaya) deserve it.

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