In Saudi Arabia, the thawb (tobe or thobe) is more than a piece of clothing. It is a symbol of culture and identity. When visitors ask, ‘Why do men wear thobes in Saudi Arabia?’ their intent is to comprehend the blend of Islamic, cultural, climatic, and historical reasons behind this deeply-rooted custom. Al-Haq Thobes helps you explore the major reasons behind why do men wear thobes in Saudi Arabia.
Arabic Traditional Dress Male
Men have worn long, loose robes with Yemeni shemagh for centuries across the Arabian Peninsula. These robes are known as thawb. This ankle-length garment is common in
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Saudi Arabia
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The Gulf
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Parts of North Africa
The design of a tobe includes:
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Long sleeves
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Simple collar
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A simple cut for air circulation
The classic colour of a thawb is white. However, men also prefer other colours based on
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Climate
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Fashion choices
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Ongoing trends
Why Do Saudis Wear Thobes?
Thawbs serve multiple functions in Saudi life. Thawbs:
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Are practical to wear with keffiyeh and shemagh. White or light fabrics reflect sunlight. They keep you cooler in the intense desert heat. Loose-fitting garments adapt to shifting winds and reduce discomfort.
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Express cultural identity. It serves as a daily reminder of heritage and belonging.
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Is the expected dress in many settings like:
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Government offices
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Religious institutions
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Formal events
A thawb is not a legally mandatory attire for men. But, many Saudis choose it as their preferred public mode of dress.
Also, read why do Islamic men wear thobes?
Are Thobes Islamic or Arab?
The tobe is essentially cultural dress that is rooted in Arab tradition. But, it aligns neatly with Islamic values of modesty and dignity. In Islam, men are encouraged to dress modestly. They must cover their bodies appropriately without extravagance. It is a principle that the tobe fulfills.
Thawb is not a religious requirement. Its widespread acceptance among Muslims arises from this compatibility between religious ethics and cultural attire.
Read: What is the difference between a thobe and dishdasha.
Why Do Men Wear Thobes in Saudi Arabia?
When you ask why men wear thobes in Saudi Arabia, the answer is multi-layered.
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Religious and social expectations direct towards modesty and tradition.
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Climatic necessity encourages men to choose breathable garments.
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Cultural continuity certifies that the tobe remains an evident sign of heritage.
So, over time, the garment has evolved in many aspects like:
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Collars
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Cuffs
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Embroidery
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Cut
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Hood
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Tassels
However, the core purpose remains the same.
The Bottom Line
Men in Saudi Arabia wear tobes with shemagh scarf for practical, cultural, and religiously consonant reasons. This outfit suits the harsh desert climate. It affirms national identity. It aligns with Islamic principles of modest dress for men. Shop the best, authentic thawbs for men of all ages now!