What is the Difference Between Kandura and Thobe?

When looking at traditional Middle Eastern men's clothing, it is important to know what is the difference between kandura and thobe (thawb or tobe).

Both are traditional robes. They are full body length robes used in Arab and Muslim civilisations. However, they have different styles and meanings in different parts of the world. Besides kandura vs. thawb, you will also learn about why do Islamic men wear thobes.

A General Glance at the Thawb

Thobe is a general term for a conventional Arabian men’s robe. Depending on the location and temperature, it is usually made of different fabrics like:

• Cotton

• Polyester

• Wool

Thawb has additional features, like:

• Long sleeves

• Loose fit

• Ankle-length

A thawb is both useful and modest. It is becoming more and more popular in worldwide modest fashion trends.

A thawb looks better with a Yemeni shemagh.

Kandura: A Special Type of Thawb

The kandura is a kind of thawb that men wear in Gulf regions, specially in:

• Oman

• United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The shape of kandura resembles a thawb. However, its design is relatively simpler. Some basic features of a kandura are:

• Collarless design

• Stitched of light, breathable fabric

• Lacks decorative elements

Read the differences between keffiyeh and shemagh scarves.

What is the Difference Between Kandura and Thobe?

Tobes come in a wider range of styles. For example:

• Saudi Arabian thawbs have:

• Shaped collars

• Cuffs

• Tailored fits

• Available in a range of colours

• The Emirati kandura is:

• Usually of white colour

• Collarless

• Relatively loose fit

Such minute differences show simplicity and national history. Some regional fashions, like Omani or Tanzanian ones, may also include tassels, which are called tarboosh or Sharakh. These offer a little local twist.

Also, check out special features of a  Moroccan thobe with hood.

Cultural Importance and Use

Both clothes stand for comfort, modesty, and tradition. Tobe is a common and culturally diversified piece of clothing worn in all Arab-speaking countries.

Kandura has significant cultural and national meaning in the UAE and Gulf countries. The kandura is simple and elegant, so you may wear it to work or to a formal event.

Read: What is the difference between a thobe and dishdasha?

Summary: What is the Difference Between Kandura and Thobe?

The Bottom Line

You can see how regional norms and climate affect traditional wear by knowing what is the difference between kandura and thobe. People select a tobe for its adaptability or a kandura for its elegance and cultural significance. Both are timeless ways to show modesty and tradition in men's clothing. Shop thawbs along with shemagh scarf now!