DUBAI: Tailors in Dubai are working overtime to meet the demand ahead of Eid Al Fitr.
Tailoring shops, both big and small, around the city, reported a surge in business, saying Eid orders began coming in well before the start of Ramadan.
Emirati entrepreneur Rashid Al Madeen, owner of Al Madani Group, one of the largest tailoring chains in the UAE, said: “Our hands are full this Ramadan. We have two shifts of nearly 150 tailors each, working round the clock to ensure our customers get their clothes on time.”
Rashid, who has received over 10,000 kandoura orders at his 10 stores around UAE since the beginning of the holy month, says this is their busiest Ramadan in recent years. “Usually we get about 6,000 orders, but this year are flooded with orders not just from the UAE but other GCC countries,” he said.
Sunil Bhagtani, owner of Shehzaadi Tailors in Bur Dubai, which specialises in Indian and Pakistani suits, said: “The number of orders has increased over the last two weeks. Some women have brought 8-10 suits, and they want them ready by Eid.”
Bhagtani said he’s hiring freelance tailors to meet the deadline.
Tailoring shop owners denied reports suggesting they are charging extra for last minute orders. Some residents who have not been able to get their Eid outfits stitched yet said they are considering readywear options.
“The Eid collection makes its way to stores after the first week of Ramadan It’s way too late to get the dresses stitched,” said Huda Saqer, 29, a Pakistani expat, who ordered designer suits from Pakistan. “I will pick up some readymade outfits, and wear the suits I ordered from Pakistan in Eid Al Adha,” she added.
Muslim men and women wear new clothes to mark Eid Al Fitr celebrations as part of a cherished tradition.
