If you’re looking for an authentic shopping experience in Riyadh that blends tradition, energy, and unbeatable prices, Dirah Abaya Market should be high on your list.
Tucked beside the historic Souk Al Zal, this market offers choice, colour, and the joy of the hunt.
A Market Full of Life (and Abayas)
Step into Dirah and you’re immediately surrounded by racks upon racks of abayas in every cut and colour imaginable. The styles range from simple, traditional black robes to more contemporary versions with embroidery, coloured linings, and lightweight summer-friendly fabrics. Some shops are wall-to-wall with options, while others are tucked into tight corners with hidden gems for those willing to dig.
Prices are where Dirah truly shines. You’ll find abayas starting as low as SAR 30 (around USD 8), with many hovering around the SAR 50 to SAR 100 range. This is the place to stock up on affordable everyday wear or pick up a cultural keepsake without spending a fortune.
The shopkeepers are generally welcoming and accustomed to both local and tourist foot traffic. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or negotiate. Many of the smaller shops prefer cash, but most accept credit cards as well, so there’s no need to worry if you’re not carrying cash. And if you don’t see your size on display, it’s worth asking as many sellers keep additional stock stored nearby or in adjacent stalls.
Wandering the Larger Market Scene
Dirah’s appeal extends beyond clothing. Just a short stroll away is Souk Al Zal, an expansive market known for trinkets, carpets, traditional incense, and handmade souvenirs. The energy continues here, where each alley feels like a snapshot of the city’s past and present.
Close by, the Qasr Al Hokm metro station adds another unexpected highlight. With its lush indoor gardens and a large reflective sculpture reminiscent of Chicago’s Bean, it brings a modern design element to the day’s outing.
But even if you do not wander beyond, Dirah Abaya Market is filled with movement, noise, texture, and tradition. Spend SAR 100 and walk away with three abayas and a good story. Whether you’re browsing for modest fashion, discovering local culture, or simply looking to explore, Dirah delivers an experience rooted in the everyday rhythm of Riyadh.
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