Ladies' alterations are the questions we answer most on WhatsApp: what does it cost to shorten an abaya, take in a dress, or re-fit an occasion gown in Dubai? Here are the real 2026 numbers, plus a few tailor's tips that save money.
Abaya alteration prices
| Alteration | Price from |
|---|---|
| Shorten length | AED 30 |
| Take in width | AED 40 |
| Sleeve adjustment | AED 35 |
| Zipper replacement | AED 30 |
| Embellished / layered abaya work | AED 60+ |
Abayas reward precision — the clean line shows everything — so measure worn with your usual footwear. A female tailor can visit your home for fittings in complete privacy; just mention it when booking.
Dress alteration prices
| Alteration | Price from |
|---|---|
| Simple hemming | AED 50 |
| Take in / let out | AED 60 |
| Straps / sleeves | AED 40 |
| Zipper replacement | AED 35 |
| Evening / wedding dress re-fit | AED 100–250 |
Occasion wear costs more for good reasons: linings, layers, boning and beadwork all take slower, more careful handling, and these pieces get our most senior tailors plus a fitting before final delivery.
What decides the final price
Three factors: fabric (chiffon and satin need slower handling than cotton), construction (a lined dress is two garments in one), and embellishment (beads near a seam must be removed and re-sewn). This is why a photo quote is the honest way to price alterations — at Khayat you send a WhatsApp photo and get a fixed price before pickup, so there are never surprises at delivery.
Five ways to spend less on alterations
Batch your pieces. One free pickup with five garments beats five separate jobs. Alter after weight changes settle, not during. Fix zippers early — a failing zipper caught at AED 30 prevents fabric damage that costs more. Buy slightly large, never small when shopping online: letting out has limits, taking in barely does. Keep your measurements on file with one tailor — repeat work gets faster and more accurate.
How it works at your door
Everything happens without a shop trip: send a photo, get a fixed quote, free pickup from anywhere in Dubai (we operate 24/7), and delivery back pressed and ready — with a free re-adjustment guarantee if anything needs a touch more. Start with a photo on WhatsApp.