Qatar's hot runway is nothing shy of steamy sunglasses and sauna red days this summer. Just step out into the blazing 48 degrees sun, and watch your sunglasses steam up in seconds while you melt away in its sauna weather. No pun intended at all, with the temperature warnings of it going higher next week, the steamy humid days are here and I'm left wondering if it will cool down before Ramadaan starts.
On the upside, you learn how to cope with day hibernations, mini fire extinguishers in the car, air conditioning which is a given, night outings and the best one being the thobe and abaya. The thobe or kandoura (long dress) is worn by male nationals in white - it keeps them cool while protecting them from the suns harmful rays. The abaya is black and even though it makes you perspire much more (as black absorbs heat), it protects you from the heat provided you choose UV protected fabric options. Both also provide excellent ventilation. The Shayla (head covering) for ladies and the Ghutra for males is the genious as it protects the neck and head from the heat. . So thankful for my abaya!
By the way, I was once asked why I wear the abaya because it is worn by arabic women only - not true! Maybe it originated in gulf countries but it is worn in many countries around the world, differing in colour and style. South Africa is no exception with black being the popular color if it is adorned as it is not compulsory - it is also very simply designed and some even wear niqab or choose colored ones
FInal happy thankful note: The traffic is calming down as people fly off on vacation.
