These words are often used as if they mean the same thing, but each describes a distinct garment. Here is a plain guide to the difference between a hijab, niqab, burka, shayla, khimar and abaya, so you know exactly what you are looking at, or shopping for.
Hijab
The hijab is the most common term: a headscarf that covers the hair, ears and neck while leaving the face fully visible. It comes as a long rectangle or a square and is worn in countless styles. When people say “hijab,” they usually mean this everyday headscarf.
Shayla (Sheila)
A shayla, spelled sheila in the Gulf, is a specific kind of hijab: a long rectangular scarf draped over the head and around the shoulders, then lightly pinned. It is the everyday style across the UAE and the wider Gulf. Practically, a sheila is a hijab; the word just names its shape and regional style. Browse our sheila and rectangle hijabs to see the drape.
Khimar
A khimar is longer than a standard hijab: a cape-like veil that falls over the shoulders and down the chest, usually to around waist length, with the face left visible. It is a one-piece, pull-on style favoured for prayer and modest everyday wear.
Niqab
A niqab is a face veil worn together with a headscarf. It covers the face but leaves the eyes visible. The niqab is an additional layer worn over a hijab, not a replacement for it.
Burka
A burka (or burqa) is the most concealing: a full-body covering that also veils the face, sometimes with a mesh screen over the eyes. It is associated with particular regions and cultures rather than being universal.
Abaya
An abaya is not headwear at all, which is where a lot of the confusion comes from. It is a loose, full-length outer robe worn over clothing, most often black and common across the Gulf. An abaya covers the body; a hijab or sheila covers the head. The two are usually worn together.
Quick comparison
- Covers hair, face visible: hijab, shayla/sheila, khimar.
- Covers face, eyes visible: niqab (worn with a hijab).
- Covers face and body fully: burka.
- Covers the body, not the head: abaya.
Why the difference matters when shopping
If you want an everyday headscarf, you are looking for a hijab or sheila in a comfortable fabric. If you want coverage for prayer, a khimar or prayer set is easiest. Knowing the right word gets you to the right product faster, and avoids ordering something more, or less, covering than you intended.