Thobe vs Jubbah: Are We it by the Wrong Name?

Did you know that what many people casually call a “thobe” might actually be the wrong word depending on where you are in the Islamic world?

From Morocco to the Arabian Peninsula, these flowing garments have been worn for centuries — yet they go by many different names, each rooted in regional history, climate, and craftsmanship. Calling everything a “thobe” may be convenient, but it oversimplifies a rich and diverse Islamic dress tradition.

Understanding these distinctions isn’t just about vocabulary. It’s about respecting Islamic heritage and recognising how culture shapes what we wear.

Why Calling Everything a “Thobe” Is an Oversimplification

Across the Islamic world, men’s traditional garments evolved along ancient trade routes, scholarly centres, and diverse climates. As a result, terms such as JUBBAH, KANDURA, DJELLABA, GALABIYA, and GANDOURA are not interchangeable — even if they appear similar to the untrained eye.

Each name reflects:

• Regional identity

• Climate adaptation

• Historical influence

• Local tailoring traditions

Using one term for all Islamic garments erases these distinctions.

Thobe vs Jubbah: So Which One Is Actually Correct?

Here’s the truth: both are correct — and neither is universal.

• Thobe (also spelled thawb or thoub) is a broad, modern term most closely associated with the Arabian Peninsula. In Arabic, it simply means “garment.”

• Jubbah is an older term with deep roots in classical Islamic dress, historically worn by scholars and respected figures across multiple regions.

In North Africa, for example, the garments worn for centuries were never traditionally called thobes. The modern habit of using “thobe” as a global label is largely a product of globalisation and e-commerce — not historical accuracy.

Names of Traditional Islamic Garments Across the Islamic World

THOBE – The Modern Catch-All

Most commonly associated with Saudi Arabia and the Gulf, the thobe is a long, ankle-length robe that has become a global reference point for Islamic menswear.

KANDURA – The UAE’s Signature Garment

Worn in the United Arab Emirates, the kandura is typically collarless and features a distinctive tarboosh (tassel). It is usually white and tailored for extreme heat.

DISHDASHA – Kuwait & Iraq

The dishdasha closely resembles the thobe but often includes subtle regional tailoring differences, particularly in collar style and fit.

GALABIYA / JALABIYA – Egypt’s Everyday Wear

In Egypt, the galabiya is a looser, often shorter garment designed for comfort in hot climates. It is widely worn both at home and outdoors.

DJELLABA – Morocco’s Hooded Icon

The Moroccan djellaba is instantly recognisable by its pointed hood (qob) and flowing silhouette. Traditionally made in wool for winter and lighter fabrics for summer, it reflects Morocco’s varied climate.

GANDOURA – Morocco’s Summer Essential

The gandoura is a lightweight, short-sleeved or three-quarter-sleeved garment, perfect for warm weather. Elegant yet practical, it is a cornerstone of Moroccan Islamic dress.

QAMIS – The Scholar’s Garment

The qamis is often associated with scholars and religious figures. Typically more fitted and understated, it is commonly seen in white or neutral tones.

JUBBAH – The Historical Foundation

The jubbah holds special historical significance in Islamic civilisation. Its influence even reached Europe — the English word “jumper” traces linguistic roots back to the Arabic jubbah via Old French.

Why These Names Matter More Than Ever

As modest fashion continues to grow globally, authenticity has become increasingly important. Consumers are no longer just buying garments — they are buying heritage, craftsmanship, and meaning.

Understanding whether a garment is a Moroccan gandoura, a djellaba, or a Gulf thobe shows cultural awareness and respect for Islamic tradition.

What This Means for Modern Wearers

Each garment name represents:

• Climate-specific design

• Cultural identity and pride

• Generational craftsmanship

• Modern adaptability without losing tradition

Celebrating Diversity Within Islamic Unity

While these garments may look similar, their names tell stories shaped by geography, history, and faith. Whether you wear a thobe, jubbah, djellaba, or gandoura, you are participating in a tradition that spans continents and centuries across the Islamic world.

At Jubbah.uk, we honour this diversity by offering authentic Moroccan gandouras and djellabas, crafted in the styles they have been known by for generations — not renamed for convenience.

Because understanding the difference between a gandoura and a galabiya isn’t just about terminology.
It’s about respect.

Ready to explore authentic Islamic traditional wear? Discover our collection of premium Moroccan garments, designed for modern life while staying true to tradition.