Men, especially tourists, are often interested in Emirati cultural clothing. They also ask, ‘What do Emiratis call thobe?’ The word ‘kandura’ is authentically spelled as ‘kandūrah’. It is the native term for thawb in the UAE. This unique name is known to many other nations and is well-known today.
The Importance of Kandura
The Emirati kandura is more than just clothes for men. It stands for national pride, style, and practicality. Its design focuses on modesty, simplicity, and comfort in the UAE's desert heat. It has no collar but may have a tassel at the neckline. Emiratis also pair their thawbs with a Yemeni shemagh.
In the UAE, the word ‘kandura’ is the best, native way to say it. In many other Middle Eastern countries, people use other terms, which are summarized below:
|
Gulf and Other Countries |
Common Names of Thawb |
|
Bahrain |
Dishdasha |
|
Kuwait |
Dishdasha |
|
Oman |
Dishdasha and Kandura |
|
Qatar |
Thobe and Dishdasha |
|
Saudi Arabia |
Thawb (thobe or tobe) and Qamis |
|
United Arab Emirates (UAE) |
Kandura |
|
North Africa (Morocco) |
Djellaba |
|
South Asia |
Jubba, Kurta, and Qamis |
Read the difference between keffiyeh and shemagh.
Cultural and Practical Benefits of Wearing Kandura
People really like kandura because they can easily wear it in acceptable situations like prayer time or simply in the UAE. It is comfortable to wear in hot climate when made from light materials like:
-
Cotton
-
Linen
-
Refined synthetics
The simple silhouette and neutral colors make it more versatile. Therefore, you can wear it every day, to formal events, and to religious activities.
Read the differences between a thobe and dishdasha.
Contemporary Insights from Al-Haq Thobes
Based on highly demanded articles sold at Al-Haq Thobes, our variety of kanduras, along with butterfly abaya collection, shows off the pride of Emirati clothing, as well as traditional and modern tailoring.
Our collection captures the essence of this traditional garment, whether you need a breathable kandura for everyday comfort or a fancy one for special occasions. You can also buy a Moroccan thobe with hood.
The Bottom Line
So, what do Emiratis call thobe? They call it ‘kandura’!
Kandura is a robe that represents cultural identity and elegance. It displays the ability to live in the Gulf. The kandura is a proud icon of UAE heritage because of its useful design, simple meaning, and connection to the region.
Buy shemagh scarves now!