Best Abaya for Prayer (Salah): What to Look For

For many of us, the abaya is the garment we reach for most when it is time to pray. It covers us fully, it is easy to slip on, and it lets us stand in front of Allah with focus rather than worrying about what is shifting or slipping.

But not every abaya is equally suited to salah. In this guide we will look at what to look for in a prayer abaya, so that you can pray comfortably and with a settled heart, In sha'Allah.

What is required for prayer clothing?

In general, a woman's prayer clothing should cover her body fully, apart from the face and hands, and should be clean and not see-through. Scholars differ on some details, such as whether the feet must be covered, so follow the guidance of your school of thought or ask a trusted scholar if you are unsure. A well-chosen abaya makes meeting these requirements simple.

What to look for in an abaya for prayer

1. Full, opaque coverage

Choose a fabric that is fully opaque, even in bright light, and a length that covers your feet and ankles comfortably. A quality fabric such as nidha holds its shape and drapes well, which helps the abaya stay in place through the different positions of prayer.

2. Sleeves that stay put

This is the detail most women notice straight away. Wide sleeves can slide up your forearms during sujood or get in the way during wudu, and constantly adjusting them can pull you out of your prayer. Our Khatijah abayas have a bell sleeve with hidden clasps, so the sleeves stay in place and do not roll down when you make wudu. That means no separate sleeve covers are needed.

3. A relaxed fit

You need to move freely through ruku and sujood, so avoid anything fitted through the hips, knees or shoulders. A relaxed cut lets you bow, prostrate and rise without the fabric pulling tight. If you are unsure about sizing, our abaya size guide will help.

4. A length that does not trip you up

An abaya that is too long can catch under your knees or feet when you rise from sujood. Aim for a hem that just skims the floor, and take extra care with length if you pray in socks.

5. Breathable fabric

Prayer should feel calm, not stifling. A breathable, lightweight fabric keeps you comfortable whether you are praying at home, at work or in a warm masjid. In summer, see our guide to the best abayas for summer in Australia.

6. Easy care

Clothing for prayer needs to be clean, so an abaya that is simple to wash and quick to dry makes life easier. See our abaya care guide for tips.

7. Pockets and a belt, if you like them

Some women love a pocket for a tasbih or a set of keys, while others prefer a clean, simple line. Our Essential abayas include styles with pockets and a belt for everyday practicality, and our Khatijah abayas come with a free belt.

Open vs closed abaya for prayer

A closed abaya is worn like a dress, so it stays in place naturally through every position in prayer. An open abaya is worn like a coat and can swing open when you bow or prostrate, so you will want to wear it over a modest outfit and keep it closed or fastened. Read more in our open vs closed abaya guide, or browse our closed abayas to find one that suits you.

Pairing your abaya with a prayer hijab

Your hijab needs to stay put as well. Choose a soft, breathable fabric that drapes well and does not slide, and consider a hijab cap or under scarf for extra grip. Explore our hijab collection to find a match.

A quick prayer abaya checklist

• Fully opaque fabric
• Sleeves that stay in place during wudu and sujood
• A relaxed fit through the body
• A hem that does not trip you up
• Breathable, easy-care fabric
• Room to move comfortably

Find your prayer abaya

Our best-selling Khatijah Abaya is made from premium nidha and is ideal for prayer, everyday wear and Umrah. Planning a trip? See our guide to the perfect abayas for Umrah, or browse our full range of abayas.

Prayer abaya FAQs

Do I need a special abaya for prayer?

No special garment is required. Any abaya that covers you fully, is clean, is not see-through and lets you move comfortably can be used for salah.

Should my sleeves cover my wrists when I pray?

Generally, yes. A woman's forearms are covered in prayer, with only the face and hands exempt. Choose sleeves that stay in place when you raise your hands and prostrate.

Can I pray in an open abaya?

Yes, as long as your outfit underneath is modest and the open abaya stays in place. Many women prefer a closed abaya because it needs no adjusting.

Is a black abaya required for prayer?

No. There is no required colour for prayer. Choose a colour that is modest and comfortable. See our abaya colour guide for ideas.