Thobe and Dishdasha: What's the Key Difference?

Modest fashion is full of beautiful clothing. Some are well-known, like the hijab or abaya. Others may cause a bit of confusion. The thobe and dishdasha are two such items. You may have heard people use both names for what looks like the same outfit.

But are they the same? Or is there a real difference?

In this blog, we will explore both. We will explain what a thobe is, what a dishdasha is, and how they differ. By the end, you’ll know exactly which one is which, and which might be right for you.

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What is a Thobe?

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A thobe (also spelt thawb or tob) is a long robe worn by Muslim men. It usually has long sleeves and reaches down to the ankles. Thobes are worn for both daily wear and special occasions.

The word "thobe" comes from Arabic. It means "garment" or "dress". Over time, the term came to refer to this specific style of clothing.

Thobes are usually made from cotton, polyester, or a blend of both. Some may be made from thicker materials for colder weather. Others are light and breathable, perfect for hot climates.

They are often white, especially in Gulf countries, but can also be found in black, grey, cream, and other colours.

Thobes are popular in many parts of the Muslim world. You’ll see them in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Sudan, North Africa, and even among the muslim communities in the UK and Europe.

Each country may have its own twist on the design. But the basic shape is usually the same, a loose, long robe for modesty and comfort.

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Finding the perfect thobe shouldn’t be difficult. At Riwaya, we offer a carefully selected range of high-quality thobes and dishdashas from trusted brands. Whether you prefer a classic white thobe for daily wear or a more tailored design for special occasions, you’ll find the right fit and style. Explore our collection today and dress with confidence.

What is a Dishdasha?

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A dishdasha is very similar to a thobe. In fact, some people use the terms in the same way. But the word "dishdasha" is more commonly used in certain regions.

Dishdasha is the preferred name in Kuwait, Oman and some parts of Iraq and Bahrain.

It refers to the same type of long robe worn by men. But there are small design details that set it apart from the thobe.

Dishdashas tend to have a slightly different cut. For example:

a. Omani dishdashas often have no collar and feature a small colourful tassel at the chest called a furakha

b. Kuwaiti dishdashas may have a stiffer collar and often include cufflinks

c. The overall shape may be more fitted around the shoulders

The term "dishdasha" has Persian roots and travelled through Arabic over time. Today, it is deeply linked with the culture of the Gulf region.

Thobe vs Dishdasha: Main Differences

Let’s break it down in a simple way. While both are long robes worn by Muslim men, the key differences lie in the name, region, and small design touches.

Here’s a quick comparison:

As you can see, both garments serve the same purpose. However, small cultural preferences have created unique versions.

Do They Mean the Same Thing?

Yes and no.

In many cases, people will call both garments a thobe. This is especially common outside the Middle East, like in the UK or Europe. In everyday language, saying "thobe" is widely accepted.

However, if you go to Kuwait or Oman, you’ll hear the word dishdasha much more often. Locals take pride in their own version of the robe. They may even feel the dishdasha is part of their national identity.

So while the clothing is nearly the same, the names and feelings around them can differ by location.

It’s a bit like how the words "trainers" and "sneakers" mean the same thing, but one is used in the UK and the other in the US.

How to Choose the Right One

If you’re shopping for one of these robes, here are a few things to think about:

1. Where are you wearing it?

If you’re going to a wedding in Oman, you may want to wear a traditional Omani dishdasha. If you live in the UK, a classic thobe is a great choice for Jummah, Eid, or daily wear.

2. What’s your style?

Some men prefer a more tailored look. Others like the loose, flowing style. Check the cut and fit before you buy. Kuwaiti dishdashas tend to look sharper, while Saudi thobes are often simpler.

3. What fabric do you need?

For summer, go for a light cotton thobe. For winter, try a thicker material or layer it with a cloak. The climate matters.

4. Colour and detail

White is the most common colour, especially in the Gulf. But black, navy, and beige are also popular. Embroidery or chest tassels can add a cultural touch.

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Conclusion

Thobe or dishdasha, whichever name you use, both garments reflect Islamic values of modesty and dignity. They are elegant, comfortable, and rooted in culture.

While the differences between them are small, they are still worth knowing. Understanding the history, the names, and the regional designs helps us appreciate the beauty of Islamic fashion even more.

Whether you wear one for prayer, a special event, or everyday life, choose what feels right for you. Let your clothing reflect your identity and values.

Selling with Riwaya

At Riwaya, we believe in empowering Muslim-owned businesses. Our marketplace is built on Islamic values, offering sellers a trusted space to share their products with a growing community that truly appreciates faith-inspired living.

Whether you sell modest fashion, halal beauty, Islamic art, home décor, or meaningful gifts, Riwaya helps you reach the right audience, muslim customers looking for exactly what you offer.

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