Feeling curious about traditional Middle Eastern clothing? Maybe you’ve admired the grace of a thobe while traveling or on social media, and you’re wondering: Can I, as a foreigner, wear one too?
The answer is a resounding yes! And it’s not just about looking good, it’s about experiencing comfort, style, and cultural appreciation all in one. This blog will guide you on how to wear a thobe with confidence and respect.
What Exactly Is a Thobe?
A thobe is a long robe worn by many men in Arab countries. It is the most iconic item of men’s Arabic wear. The design can change slightly depending on the country.
In Saudi Arabia, the thobe is usually crisp and plain white, perfect for both daily life and special occasions. The Saudi thobe is widely worn as part of Saudi traditional clothes.
In the UAE, the thobe is often called a kandura. An Emirati thobe is made from a lighter fabric suited to hot weather and includes a small tassel at the front. UAE thobes are common in both casual and formal settings.
The term jubba is often used in the UK and South Asia to refer to thobes.
Are Thobes Suitable for Foreigners?
Absolutely! There’s no law or rule preventing foreigners from wearing a thobe. In fact, locals often appreciate it when visitors show interest in their traditional clothing.
Foreigners wear thobes for many reasons, including comfort in a hot climate, blending in during travel, cultural appreciation, religious purposes, fashion, and for personal preference.
💡 Pro Tip: Wearing a thobe respectfully is really important.
Is It Respectful for a Foreigner to Wear a Thobe?
In most cases, yes. Locals often feel pleased when foreigners show interest in their culture. But, like any traditional Arabic clothing, it’s important to be mindful.
Here are a few tips to stay respectful:
- Wear it properly: A thobe shouldn't be worn like a costume. It’s everyday clothing for millions of men.
- Choose modest styling: Avoid overly flashy designs if you want a classic look. A white thobe or a simple black thobe is always a good choice.
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Understand where you're going: At formal gatherings, in mosques, or at cultural events, wearing a mens thobe is appropriate. For nightclubs or beach parties, it would feel out of place.
Do Foreigners Wear Thobes in the UAE and Saudi Arabia?
Yes, many foreigners living in the Middle East regularly wear thobes.
In the UAE:
Foreigners often wear a UAE thobe (kandura) because it's comfortable in the heat. It also suits formal and casual settings. In the UAE, it’s common to see non-Arab men wearing a kandura at work events, Ramadan Iftars, or National Day celebrations.
In Saudi Arabia:
Foreigners wear Saudi wear during religious festivities, traditional events, and formal gatherings. The simplicity of the Saudi style makes it a popular choice.
Do You Need to Be Muslim to Wear a Thobe?
No. A thobe is cultural clothing, not just religious clothing. Anyone who appreciates the style can wear it. While you may see it commonly in Muslim communities, wearing a thobe does not mean you must be a Muslim.
People of all religions wear men’s thobes in UK.
What About the Ghutra Scarf?
The ghutra scarf (headscarf worn by men) is also something foreigners can wear. But it’s more traditional than the thobe, so keep these points in mind:
- Wearing a ghutra every day might make you feel like you're trying too hard to fit in with locals.
- Wearing it on special cultural days or events is completely fine.
- Make sure to fold it properly; locals usually help if you ask kindly.
If you’re unsure, wearing just the thobe without the headscarf is a safe and respectful choice.
Why Do Foreigners Love Wearing Thobes?
- Thobes keep you cool in hot weather and feel loose and airy.
- A white thobe for men looks fresh, clean, and stylish. A black mens thobe looks modern and classy for evenings.
- Many men say thobes are easier to wear than Western clothing. No belt, no matching outfits, just one clean piece.
- Wearing traditional Arabic clothing shows respect for local customs.
How To Choose The Right Thobe As a Foreigner?
- Pick the right size: Thobes should not be too short or too long. They usually fall just above the ankle.
- Choose a color: White jubba for men is best for hot weather, while black thobes are great for cooler days and evening wear. However, colored thobes are stylish and modern, depending on your taste.
- Understand styles: Saudi and Emirati thobes differ slightly. Choose the one you like best; there’s no rule that says a foreigner must wear a certain style.
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Quality matters: Look for comfortable fabrics, good stitching, and breathable material.
What Alif Thobes Promises?
At Alif Thobes, we promise authentic designs made from high-quality, breathable fabrics that offer comfort, style, and modesty for everyone. We offer a wide selection of Saudi thobes, Emirati thobes, collar thobes, wedding thobes, and embroidered thobes, all tailored for a perfect fit and easy everyday wear.
Especially across the UK, we make owning a premium thobe simple, accessible, and respectful to the culture.
To Sum Up
Foreigners are completely welcome to wear a thobe.
Just wear it respectfully, understand the basics of the tradition, and choose a style you truly like. Fashion has no borders, and cultural appreciation is always valued.
Curious to try a thobe? Explore Alif Thobes and find your perfect style today.
