What does a smart phone, a charger, and an abaya all have in common? According to Dubai-based contemporary abaya designer Manaal Al Hammadi: solar-powered technology. Al Hammadi is known for creating the first solar-powered abaya that can charge a portable electronic device on the go. Having merged sustainable energy, technology, and fashion, Al Hammadi is showcasing her solar-powered abaya prototype at the Solar Expo during the World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi, which starts today and runs until January 21st as part of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2016.
How does it work? The overlay is integrated with flexible organic photo-voltaic (OPV) panels—a thin, flexible sheet the converts solar energy into electricity—that is integrated onto the sleeves in order to receive maximum exposure from the sun or light source. The panels are traced with embellishments, giving the illusion of embroidered decals as opposed to noticeable solar cells. As for the charging ports, they are discretely hidden in the front pocket of the abaya, which makes it easy to plug in and charge up anywhere at anytime.
The World Future Energy Summit is held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from January 18th until January 21st.
