Thawb

A thawb (also called a long shirt) is a long robe with a single sleeve that men typically wear. It is worn as a pull-over garment or fastened at the front, with long sleeves and a length that reaches the ankles. In Arabic it is called a thawb (ثوب); regional variations include the names dishdasha and kandura.

It is commonly worn in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Iraq, and much of the Middle East. It is also worn in Sudan, Somalia, Djibouti, and other East African countries, particularly during prayers, religious holidays, and formal social occasions.

Construction and materials

Most are made from lightweight cotton or a cotton-synthetic blend. In hot climates, light-colored fabrics are preferred because pale colors reflect sunlight. In cooler seasons, some are made from wool or heavier materials in dark shades such as black, dark blue, and brown.

Regional variations

Styles vary by region. The Saudi Arabian style typically has a collar and fronts with cuffs. The Omani and Emirati version (kandura) often has no collar; sometimes a tassel is attached to the neckline and hangs down the front. The Kuwaiti and Bahraini versions feature small differences in the sleeves and length.

Accompanying garments

The thawb is usually worn with a small cap (taaqiyah), a head wrap (ghutrah, shumaag, or keffiyeh), and sometimes a black cord worn around the head (cigaal). For formal occasions, a long open robe (bisht or mishlah) is worn over it, sometimes made of wool with gold trim.

Social significance

The thawb is both everyday and formal wear. Government offices, schools, and Gulf state assemblies recognize it as formal dress for work and official events. It is also associated with national identity; many Gulf states regard the thawb as a marker of citizenship and national belonging.