One Garment, Many Stories
Let's start with a simple scene.
It's Jummah (Friday), and you're heading to the mosque in London. As you walk in, you spot someone in a clean white thobe. You nod in appreciation—it's stylish, modest, and elegant. But then, you see another man in a darker, more embroidered version. Someone else walks in wearing a hooded thobe that resembles a Moroccan one. And that's when you realize: the thobe isn't just one style. It's a world of thobe styles—each with its own story and roots.
So, let's take a trip around the world and explore the different types of thobes worn across the globe. You might even spot one that feels just right for you.
Why Do Men Wear Thobes?
Before we jump into the styles, let’s take a quick moment to talk about why thobes are worn in the first place.
The thobe isn’t just a piece of fabric—it’s a symbol of modesty, faith, and cultural pride. For many Muslim men, wearing a thobe is part of their daily or religious life. It’s a part of Islamic clothing for men that carries both spiritual and cultural significance. It’s incredibly comfortable, light, airy, and stylish—perfect for prayers, Eid, or casual hangouts with friends.
The Different Types Of Thobes
So, grab a cup of tea and let’s dive into the world of thobes, shall we?
1. The Saudi Thobe
Let's begin with Saudi Arabia, the place many people associate with thobes first. The Saudi thawb is one of the most popular styles you'll see globally. It's usually made from light cotton or polyester combinations, perfect for hot desert climates. It's crisp, features a stiff collar like a dress shirt, and is often available in white, making it ideal for daily wear. For winter, people often opt for darker shades, such as grey, brown, or navy.
Looking for a Saudi thobe in UK? You’ll find a wide variety of options that combine traditional Saudi aesthetics and current fashion trends.
2. The Emirati Kandura
Next stop, the UAE. The thobe here is called a Kandora.
What makes it different? For one, it's collarless, with a smooth neckline and no buttons. It often has a long tassel (called a tarboosh) that hangs from the front. Emirati kanduras are usually a bit looser than Saudi thobes and often made from very breathable fabric.
If you're shopping for a men's Emirati thobe in UK, you’re in luck—there’s a growing trend of UK-based stores offering authentic Emirati designs that are both stylish and rooted in tradition.
3. The Omani Dishdasha
Now, let's visit Oman, where the thobe is known as the Dishdasha.
At first glance, it may resemble the Emirati version, but there's one noteworthy difference: the colorful embroidery around the neckline and cuffs. The Omani dishdasha also features a tassel (called furakha) that is often scented with perfume or oud—a beautiful tradition.
Want to embrace this unique look? Try a mens Omani thobe in UK to enjoy both its cultural richness and standout style.
4. The Moroccan Thobe
If you’ve ever seen a hooded thobe, chances are it was Moroccan.
Known locally as the Jellaba, the Moroccan version of the thobe is usually made from heavier fabric, especially in colder regions. It’s long, loose, and features a pointed hood. You’ll often find beautiful embroidery along the chest and sleeves. The men's Moroccan thobe is especially popular during Ramadan, Eid, or weddings.
5. The Kuwaiti Thobe
The Kuwaiti thobe has its own personality, too. It’s usually a bit more fitted than the Saudi version, with soft, rounded collars and hidden buttons for a sleek appearance. It’s also often made of shiny fabric, giving it a slightly more formal or festive look. If you see someone looking refined at a wedding or celebration in Kuwait, chances are they’re rocking this Arabic thobe.
Now, let’s bring it home to the UK.
What’s remarkable here is the diversity. Walk into a mosque or Islamic event in the UK, and you’ll likely see all of these thobe types—Saudi, Moroccan, Emirati, Omani, Kuwaiti—you name it.
British Muslims are embracing the Arabic thobe not just for religious reasons, but as a symbol of faith, modesty, identity, and yes, fashion.
Where to Find the Best Thobes in the UK
Now you might be wondering, "Where can I actually find a high-quality thobe that fits my style?" That's where Alif Thobes comes in. From Omani casual thobes to simple Emirati kanduras and classic Saudi designs, Alif Thobes brings it all under one roof.
We offer a wide variety of colors, sizes, and designs—so there's something for everyone. Want something with a unique touch? Check out our embroidered thobes. Shopping for a special occasion? You'll love our wedding thobes. Prefer a smart look? Try our collar thobes. At Alif Thobes, we're passionate about offering more than just clothing—we provide pieces that help you express your faith, identity, and confidence with pride.
Browse our full collection of luxury thobes for men in UK today and find the thobe that feels like it was made just for you.
At the End of the Day
So, what have we learned on this little journey?
The thobe isn't just a robe; it's a global garment that adapts to every culture it encounters.
And here's the beautiful part: you don't have to be from a certain country or background to wear one. If it makes you feel connected to your roots, your faith, or your sense of style, then it's for you.
So next time you slip on a thobe—whether for Jummah, Eid, a wedding, or just a peaceful evening at home—remember: you're wearing more than fabric. You're wearing history.
