Diamond-encrusted abaya worth AED65million on display in Dubai

The world's most expensive abaya - the traditional outer garment worn by Gulf Arab women - valued at a whopping AED65million, has made its way to Dubai.

Created by British designer Debbie Wingham, the dazzling design boasts 2,000 stones including a rare and expensive red diamond as its centrepiece.

Her famed black diamond dress made headlines last year for being the most expensive in the world. It was adorned with 50 two carat black diamonds, and weighed 13kg.

INSPIRATION

Wingham got her inspiration for the long flowing garment during a trip to Dubai in October 2012.

"Dubai has an air of something fabulous and graceful and I found the abaya worn by Arab ladies to be very beautiful," she told Yahoo! Maktoob.

"I was inspired by the texture and flowing movement of the garment and decided I wanted to work on an abaya range."

The design's showpiece is a priceless red diamond - believed to be one of the rarest in the world - which comes from a client's personal collection, the designer said.

"One of my client's has a family collection of rare diamonds and stones and suggested I use it in my creations," she said.

In addition to the priceless gem, the garment is encrusted with 2,000 stones, including white and black diamonds and rubies, giving the dress a "spring effect that brings the stones to life," Wingham explained.

The garment has over 200,000 intricate stitches handmade with 14 carat white gold thread, connecting layering and beading detail giving a unique 3D effect.

Wingham's designs are custom-made with embellishments created in Paris. "All of my pieces are one-off, making each one unique from the other," she said.

CULTURE

The self-taught designer, who has dressed the likes of Kate Winslet and Hilary Swank, last visited the emirate in October to show off her black diamond dress.

At the time, she only featured a western collection but decided she wanted to create something to honour the city she fell in love with.

"I wanted to create something that was honourable and respectful of the culture," she said, adding that she is hoping for a lively client base.

"My ultimate plan is to make Dubai my home."

The red diamond abaya will be showcased at Raffles Hotel in Dubai from March 21-25.