Understanding the Garments
The attire worn by Muslim men, often perceived as “dresses” in a Western context, are traditional garments with specific names and designs. One prevalent garment is the thobe, also known by regional names such as dishdasha in Kuwait or kandura in the UAE. This long, loose-fitting robe typically extends to the ankles and often features long sleeves. While commonly white, symbolizing purity, thobes can also be found in various colors.
Another common garment is the jubbah, a long outer garment resembling an open coat with long sleeves, historically worn by public officials and professionals in Muslim countries. The jubbah is often thicker and more intricately crafted than a standard thobe, sometimes featuring embroidery around the collar and cuffs. The kurta, a loose collarless shirt or tunic, is widely worn in South Asia, often paired with loose trousers called shalwar or churidars, forming a kurta-pajama set. These traditional garments are designed to be loose-fitting.
Religious and Cultural Foundations
Traditional garments worn by Muslim men are rooted in both religious principles and cultural heritage. A primary religious motivation is the concept of modesty, known as ‘awrah’ in Islam. For men, the ‘awrah’ is generally considered to be the area from the navel to the knees, which must be covered in front of others. Loose-fitting clothing ensures this area is adequately concealed.
Islamic teachings also encourage simplicity and humility in dress, reflecting a focus on character rather than physical appearance. The attire is often seen as an emulation of the Prophet Muhammad’s (Sunnah) example. Furthermore, these garments are deeply embedded in the cultural traditions of various regions, such as the Arabian Peninsula and North Africa. Their design provides practical benefits like protection from the sun and sand in hot desert climates.
Diverse Styles and Regional Variations
There is no single “Muslim dress,” as the attire varies significantly across different countries and regions. In the Gulf countries, the white thobe is a common daily garment. Variations exist, with the kandura in the UAE typically being collarless and often white, sometimes featuring a tassel called a “tarboosh” at the neckline. In contrast, the dishdasha in Kuwait might have a more tailored fit and appear in muted tones during cooler seasons.
South Asia features the popular kurta-pajama, a combination of a loose tunic (kurta) and trousers (pajama or shalwar), which can range from simple cotton for daily wear to ornate versions for formal events. In West Africa, men might wear a dashiki, a colorful pullover robe, while North Africa is home to garments like the djellaba, which often includes a hood. Many Muslim men, especially in Western countries or modern urban environments, also wear contemporary Western clothing. The choice of attire often signifies cultural identity and personal preference.
Symbolism and Identity
Beyond their practical and religious functions, traditional garments worn by Muslim men carry deeper symbolism, expressing aspects of identity and community. These garments can serve as a visible manifestation of religious adherence and a connection to Islamic heritage. Wearing such attire fosters a sense of belonging to the global Muslim community, or Ummah, creating a shared visual identity among believers.
The clothing often symbolizes humility and equality, particularly when worn in religious contexts like daily prayers or during the pilgrimage (Hajj). The white color of many thobes, for instance, represents purity and simplicity. For some, wearing traditional attire is a deliberate expression of their faith and a way to distinguish themselves and embody pride in their cultural and religious identity.