What’s the Difference Between a Thobe, Jubba, Dishdasha, and Kandura?

If you’ve ever shopped for Islamic clothing or spoken to friends in different countries, you’ve probably noticed that the same style of garment is called different things. You might hear someone say thobe, while another person says jubba, dishdasha, or kandura. These terms all refer to long robes worn by men in Muslim communities, but they are not always exactly the same.

In this blog post, we break down the most common names, what they mean, and where they’re used. We also explain some of the key features that set them apart.

Thobe

Thobe (sometimes spelled “thawb”) is the most widely used term across many Arabic-speaking and Muslim-majority countries. In the UK, it has become a common name for the long, robe-like garment worn by men, especially for Friday prayers, Eid, weddings and formal events.

Men’s thobes are typically ankle-length with long sleeves and a loose fit. They can come in plain cotton for everyday wear or in more luxurious fabrics for special occasions. You’ll find many styles, including Saudi, Qatari, Yemeni and Moroccan influences. The word “thobe” is more general and can refer to a wide range of cuts and designs depending on the region.

Jubba

The term jubba is often used in South Asian and East African communities, including in Pakistan, India, Somalia and parts of Kenya. It usually refers to a robe that is worn over a shalwar kameez or kurta. A jubba is sometimes slightly longer and may feature embroidery along the collar, chest or cuffs.

In the UK, many people use the word “jubba” when talking about Islamic clothing worn for prayer or religious gatherings, especially during Ramadan or Eid. You’ll often see more decorative jubbas for imams or elders during events at the mosque.

Jubbas are also worn in colder climates as outerwear, often layered on top of other garments. Some have button-down fronts and resemble a long overcoat in style.

Dishdasha

Dishdasha is the word most commonly used in Kuwait, Iraq, and parts of Oman. It refers to the same style of garment as a thobe, but with regional details. In Kuwait, dishdashas are often made from high-quality fabric and tailored for a more fitted appearance, especially around the shoulders and sleeves.

Colour plays a role too. In Gulf countries, white is the standard choice in summer due to the heat, while darker colours like grey or brown are more common during winter. The dishdasha often comes with a chest pocket and may be worn with a loose overcoat called a bisht during formal occasions.

Kandura

Kandura is the word used in the United Arab Emirates and parts of Oman. While it shares many features with the thobe and dishdasha, the kandura has its own unique touches. The most noticeable is the absence of a collar and the use of a decorative cord (called a tarboosh or igal) that hangs from the neckline.

Kanduras tend to be made from very light material to suit the UAE’s hot climate. The fit is slightly looser, and the garment is usually plain without embroidery or heavy stitching. The simplicity is part of the style.

In the UK, you’ll find many Emirati men still wearing kanduras for religious events or when visiting home.

Other Regional Variations

Galabeya (or Jellabiya)

This is commonly worn in Egypt and parts of Sudan. Galabeyas are usually more casual, made in loose cotton with wide sleeves. They are often worn around the house or for daily errands. You may also see more colourful versions used for celebrations or traditional dances.

Moroccan Thobe (Djellaba)

In Morocco, the traditional garment is called a djellaba. This is often made with heavier fabric and features a pointed hood. While it’s not as common in the UK, Moroccan men might wear a djellaba for Eid or other religious gatherings.

Which One Should You Use?

In the UK, the word thobe tends to be the most widely understood, especially in Islamic shops and online stores. However, knowing the different names and regional styles helps when you’re shopping for a specific fit or fabric. It also helps to understand what people mean when they use different terms in conversation.

Some men have a mix in their wardrobe. A classic white thobe for Friday prayers, an embroidered jubba for special events, and a lightweight kandura for summer weddings. The right choice depends on the occasion, the climate, and your personal style.

If you’re looking to explore these styles, Thobez offers a wide range of thobes, jubbas and other traditional garments inspired by designs across the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. Our collection includes light summer thobes, detailed embroidery, regional fits and more, all available with free UK delivery on orders over £50.

Let us know what you’re looking for, and we’ll help you find something that fits well, feels right and reflects your background or style.