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For many Muslim men the thobe is not only clothing but a part of daily life. It is worn for Jumu’ah, Eid, family gatherings, and for comfort at home. In Britain thobes are familiar in mosques, schools, and community events, reflecting styles that originated in Saudi Arabia, Oman, the Emirates, Morocco, and other regions. The history of the thobe is long and shaped by faith, culture, and environment.
Early Beginnings in the Arabian Peninsula
The thobe has its roots in the Arabian deserts. Before the modern tailored designs, men wore long robes made from cotton, wool, or linen. These robes were loose to allow air circulation in the heat while still covering the body. At night they offered protection against the cooler desert climate.
The Arabic word thawb simply means cloth or garment. In its earliest form it was not ceremonial or decorative but an item of daily use. Its practical design meant it was worn widely and became a recognised part of Arab dress.
The Influence of Islam
When Islam spread in the seventh century the thobe naturally became part of Muslim identity. The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, encouraged modest dress and the thobe reflected this guidance. For men it covered the body to the ankles and avoided excess decoration.
This combination of modesty and practicality helped the thobe endure. It was more than a cultural garment. It aligned with Islamic values and so travelled with the spread of Islam, adapting to different climates and materials as communities grew.
Regional Styles and Variations
The thobe has many forms across the Muslim world. Names and details vary by country but the foundation remains the same.
- Saudi thobe: Usually white, with a tailored cut and button front, often worn with a ghutra or shemagh.
- Emirati thobe (kandura): Straight cut with long sleeves, often made from very light fabrics for the heat.
- Omani thobe: Known for its rounded neckline and decorative tassel.
- Moroccan thobe (djellaba or jubba): Looser and sometimes designed with a hood, reflecting North African traditions.
Each style shows how the thobe has evolved while keeping its modest purpose. In Britain men often choose a style linked to their family’s heritage, but many also enjoy wearing different designs for different settings.
Everyday Wear and Special Occasions
For many men the thobe is not limited to the mosque. It is a comfortable garment for daily use. Some keep their finer thobes for Jumu’ah or Eid while others wear them at home or for casual outings. In the UK popular colours include black, navy, grey, cream, and camel alongside traditional white.
Occasion also guides choice. A simple cotton thobe may be worn for prayer or study, while embroidered or luxury designs are chosen for weddings and gatherings. The variety of cuts and fabrics gives the thobe flexibility that few other garments can match.
The Thobe in Modern British Muslim Life
At Thobez we understand that the thobe is more than fashion. Our collections include Omani, Emirati, and Saudi styles alongside casual options such as zipped thobes, half sleeve thobes, and everyday jubbas. This range allows British Muslims to find garments that respect tradition and suit modern life.
Why the Thobe Endures
The history of the thobe shows why it has never faded.
- Modesty: It fulfils Islamic guidance on covering the body.
- Practicality: It is lightweight, comfortable, and suited to many climates.
- Identity: It provides a clear link to culture and community.
Men typically wear thobes with sandals, trainers, or formal shoes. Some prefer tailored versions for a sharper look, while soft cotton designs remain popular for prayer and casual use.
