Arab men traditionally wear a garment known as a thobe, also called a dishdasha or kandura depending on the region. This long, loose-fitting robe is typically white and extends to the ankles, providing comfort in hot climates.
What is a Thobe?
The thobe is a staple of traditional Middle Eastern attire, particularly in the Arabian Peninsula. It is a long robe that is usually made from cotton or a cotton-polyester blend, which helps keep the wearer cool in the intense heat. While white is the most common color for thobes, especially in the summer, darker colors are sometimes worn in the winter or for formal occasions.
Features of a Thobe
- Material: Typically cotton or polyester blends for breathability
- Color: Predominantly white, with variations in darker shades for winter
- Design: Simple, with a collar and button-down front
- Length: Extends to the ankles
Regional Variations in Traditional Arab Attire
Though the thobe is common across many Arab countries, there are regional variations in style and name:
- Saudi Arabia: Known as a thobe, often with a collar and cufflinks.
- United Arab Emirates: Referred to as a kandura, usually without a collar.
- Kuwait: Called a dishdasha, often with a more tailored fit.
- Oman: Features a tassel called a furakha attached to the collar.
Why Do Arab Men Wear Thobes?
The thobe serves several practical and cultural purposes:
- Climate Adaptation: Its loose fit and light fabric make it ideal for hot, arid climates.
- Cultural Identity: Wearing a thobe is a way to express cultural heritage and identity.
- Modesty: The garment aligns with Islamic principles of modesty.
Accessories Worn with Thobes
Arab men often pair the thobe with traditional accessories:
- Ghutra or Shemagh: A square headscarf, usually white or red-and-white checkered, secured with an agal (a black rope).
- Bisht: A cloak worn over the thobe for formal occasions, often made of wool or camel hair.
- Sandals: Open-toed footwear that complements the thobe’s simplicity.
How is the Thobe Worn?
Wearing a thobe involves attention to detail:
- Undergarments: A light undershirt and shorts or long trousers.
- Buttoning: The thobe is buttoned up the front, similar to a shirt.
- Ghutra Placement: The headscarf is draped over the head and secured with an agal.
Practical Tips for Wearing a Thobe
- Ensure the thobe is well-pressed to maintain a neat appearance.
- Choose a fabric weight appropriate for the season.
- Pair with complementary accessories for formal events.
People Also Ask
What is the difference between a thobe and a kandura?
The thobe and kandura are essentially the same garment, with differences primarily in regional terminology and slight variations in style, such as the presence or absence of a collar.
Why are thobes usually white?
White is the preferred color for thobes because it reflects sunlight, helping to keep the wearer cool in hot climates. It also symbolizes purity and simplicity.
Can non-Arabs wear a thobe?
While there is no strict rule against non-Arabs wearing a thobe, it is important to do so respectfully and with an understanding of its cultural significance. It is often worn by non-Arabs in the Middle East for comfort and cultural integration.
How do you clean a thobe?
Thobes are generally machine washable. It is recommended to use a gentle cycle with cold water to maintain the fabric’s quality. They should be air-dried to prevent shrinkage.
Where can you buy a thobe?
Thobes can be purchased in Middle Eastern clothing stores, online marketplaces, or specialty shops that focus on traditional attire. They come in a range of prices depending on the fabric and craftsmanship.
Conclusion
The thobe is more than just a piece of clothing; it is a symbol of cultural identity and practicality in the Arab world. Understanding its significance and how it is worn can enhance cultural appreciation and respect. Whether worn for tradition or comfort, the thobe remains an enduring element of Arab men’s fashion.
For those interested in exploring more about Middle Eastern culture, consider reading about the history of the ghutra or the significance of the bisht in formal settings.
