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The thobe tells a story that goes far beyond fabric and stitching. It represents history, faith and identity, shaped by geography and time. Across deserts, coastlines and cities, this simple yet meaningful garment has taken on unique forms while keeping its essence intact. Every country adds its own detail, cut and craftsmanship, creating subtle variations that reflect both local tradition and individual pride.
Early Origins
The roots of the thobe can be traced to the Arabian Peninsula, where men needed clothing suited to intense heat and shifting sand. Earlythobes were made from cotton or wool and cut in loose shapes that allowed air to flow easily. The design offered both comfort and protection, while also reflecting Islamic values of modesty and simplicity.
As Islam spread across continents, so did the thobe. It reached North Africa, Central Asia and parts of Europe, adapting to each region’s climate and culture. Tailors began using local fabrics and dyes, adding small touches such as embroidery or varied necklines. Over time, these adaptations created the diverse range of thobes seen across the Muslim world today.
Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, the thobe is a staple of daily life. It is usually tailored from lightweight cotton for the heat, with heavier materials used in cooler months. White is the most common colour as it reflects sunlight and symbolises cleanliness. The Saudi thobe is typically structured with a firm collar, buttoned cuffs and straight lines. It is often worn with a traditional headscarf such as the ghutra or shemagh, secured by a black agal.
In formal settings, the thobe reflects discipline and refinement. The clean cut and sharp tailoring give it a professional appearance, making it a preferred choice for business meetings, social gatherings and prayers.
United Arab Emirates
In the United Arab Emirates, the thobe is known as the kandura. It stands out for its collarless design and the decorative tassel known as the tarboosh that hangs from the neckline. The tassel is often perfumed before gatherings or prayer, adding a small but meaningful detail to the outfit.
Unlike the Saudi version, the kandura has no visible buttons, giving it a smooth and flowing appearance. The fabric is slightly heavier, chosen to balance comfort with structure. Even the shade of white varies by season, with bright tones in summer and softer shades in winter.
Oman
The Omani thobe, called the dishdasha, is easily recognised by its rounded neckline and decorative embroidery near the chest. A small tassel called a furakha often hangs from the collar, sometimes lightly scented with perfume before special events or Friday prayers.
Omani thobes come in a wider range of colours than many other regional styles. White remains popular, but shades of cream, brown, and pale blue are also common. The embroidery is usually handmade and represents the country’s strong tradition of craftsmanship. Each pattern carries a personal or regional touch, making every thobe slightly different.
Qatar and Kuwait
In Qatar, the thobe is defined by its pointed collar, neat tailoring and decorative stitching along the chest. High quality fabrics are often used, giving the garment a polished look. The Qatari thobe has a distinct silhouette that combines tradition with a sense of modern refinement.
Kuwaiti thobes share some similarities but are usually made from softer fabrics and have a looser fit. The side vents and lightweight materials make them ideal for the country’s warm climate. Both styles favour understated luxury, focusing on clean lines and comfort.
Morocco and North Africa
In North Africa, the thobe has evolved into garments such as the djellaba and the gandoura. The djellaba usually includes a pointed hood and long sleeves, offering warmth and protection against the wind. The gandoura is simpler and sleeveless, commonly worn for everyday comfort.
Moroccan versions often include beautiful embroidery along the neckline, cuffs and seams. They can be made from cotton, wool or silk, depending on the season. This region is known for its strong textile traditions, with craftsmanship passed down through generations of artisans.
South Asia
In South Asia, similar garments such as the jubba or kurta have become part of daily and religious dress. They are usually shorter than Middle Eastern thobes and are worn over loose trousers called shalwar or pyjama. The materials range from light cotton for summer to silk or linen for formal occasions.
South Asian jubbas often feature detailed embroidery around the collar and chest, showing the region’s appreciation for colour and design. These garments are worn for prayers, religious festivals and weddings, combining comfort with tradition.
Modern Adaptations
The modern thobe continues to change while keeping its original purpose. Designers now experiment with new fabrics, different cuts and practical details such as side pockets or concealed zips. Many men own several thobes to suit different moments in life, choosing crisp white styles for prayer, darker shades for winter and relaxed short sleeve versions for daily wear.
A Garment That Connects Generations
Across the Muslim world, the thobe is more than clothing. It represents belonging and continuity. It is worn by students and scholars, workers and leaders, fathers and sons. Each region may tailor it differently, but the message is the same: respect, simplicity and pride in one’s roots. The thobe continues to evolve, yet its place in Muslim life remains as meaningful as ever.
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