It’s early morning in London, Ahmed stands in front of his mirror with two thobes in his hands.
On one side, a crisp white Saudi jubba with a smart collar and polished buttons. On the other, a smooth light grey Emirati thobe with its signature tassel and relaxed neckline. He smiles, trying to decide which to wear for his cousin’s wedding.
His friend Bilal, sipping tea nearby, chuckles. “Bro, aren’t they the same thing?”
Ahmed shakes his head. “That’s what everyone thinks—but they’re not.”
And he’s right.
Though Saudi and Emirati thobes share the same modest roots, they carry distinct details that tell stories of heritage, craftsmanship, and regional identity. Over the years, men across the UK—especially those of Middle Eastern and South Asian heritage—have embraced both styles for faith, culture, and fashion.
So today, we’re clearing the confusion: Are Saudi thobes and Emirati thobes the same? Or do their details make all the difference?
Let’s uncover the myth and the truth—thread by thread.
What Makes a Saudi Thobe Unique?
A Saudi thobe (also called a Saudi jubba) is known for its sharp tailoring and formal appearance. This style reflects Saudi Arabia’s long-standing love for precision, neatness, and elegance.
Defining Features of the Saudi Thobe
- Collared Neckline: Saudi thobes often come with a stiff shirt-style collar—sometimes called a Saudi collar thobe—adding a structured and dignified touch.
- Cuffs with Buttons: The cuffs resemble those on a dress shirt, making them ideal for both prayers and formal gatherings.
- Premium Fabrics: Lightweight cotton and polyester blends give it a smooth, crisp finish suitable for all-day wear.
- Minimal Embroidery: Saudi designs often favor simplicity, focusing on clean lines and subtle stitching over elaborate patterns.
These features give Saudi thobes a professional and composed look, making them popular for office settings, Jummah prayers, and weddings across the UK.
What Defines an Emirati Thobe?
The Emirati thobe, also known as the kandura, represents a relaxed yet refined elegance. It is collarless and often paired with a decorative tassel (tarboosh) hanging from the neckline.
Key Details That Make It Stand Out
- No Collar Design: The Emirati thobe skips the traditional collar entirely, offering a soft neckline that flows naturally.
- Tassel or Tarboosh: This symbolic cord adds charm and authenticity, reflecting the region’s Bedouin traditions.
- Loose and Airy Fit: Designed for desert climates, it allows easy movement and ventilation.
- Subtle Embroidery: Fine detailing may appear around the neckline or cuffs for understated luxury.
In the UK, men choose Emirati thobes for Eid gatherings, Nikkah ceremonies, or even relaxed weekends—it’s a garment that blends comfort and cultural pride.
Myth vs. Fact: Are Saudi and Emirati Thobes the Same?
Myth: “All thobes look the same—just different colors.”
This couldn’t be further from the truth.
Fact: Every thobe style tells its own story.
| Feature | Saudi Thobe | Emirati Thobe |
| Neckline | Collared, structured | Round neckline, no collar |
| Tassel (Tarboosh) | Not included | Always attached |
| Fit | Tailored and formal | Relaxed and flowing |
| Embroidery | Minimal and neat | Visible near neck or sleeves |
| Occasions | Work, Jummah, weddings | Eid, Nikkah, casual wear |
| Design Inspiration | Western-influenced formal cut | Traditional Arabic simplicity |
💡 Both share modesty—but express it differently.
“Fashion is the armor to survive the reality of everyday life.” — Bill Cunningham
Why Do People in the UK Wear Saudi and Emirati Thobes Alike?
Walk into a Friday prayer in Manchester or an Eid gathering in Birmingham, and you’ll see men in both Saudi and Emirati thobes side by side.
But why are both styles so popular in the UK?
- Cultural Connection: For many British Muslims, wearing a thobe is about identity—a connection to faith and tradition while living in a diverse society.
- Everyday Comfort: The UK’s mixed weather makes lightweight thobes practical. Saudi thobes offer a polished look for colder months, while Emirati thobes keep summer days breathable.
- Growing Fashion Movement: Younger generations now see thobes as symbols of cultural pride and elegance—not just religious attire.
💡 In fact, a study by Mintel UK revealed that over 60% of British Muslim men prefer wearing modest fashion at social events and weddings.
How Are Saudi Thobes Styled Differently from Emirati Thobes?
Choosing between the two often depends on the occasion and personal style.
Styling a Saudi Thobe
A white Saudi jubba with a smart collar looks elegant with:
- Polished sandals or loafers
- A red or white ghutra (headscarf) with black agal
- A minimalist watch or cufflinks
Perfect for formal dinners, Friday prayers, or Eid celebrations in the UK.
Styling an Emirati Thobe
The Emirati kandura’s beauty lies in its simplicity. Pair it with:
- Neutral sandals
- A clean white ghutra or checked headscarf
- A light spray of oud
Best suited for casual gatherings, family events, or relaxed Fridays.
DID YOU KNOW?
According to The National UAE, Emirati men own an average of 50+ kanduras, often tailored for different occasions—from daily wear to Eid celebrations.
This highlights how deeply the thobe culture is rooted in everyday life, beyond just special events.
Why the Myth Exists: “A Thobe Is Just a Thobe”
The confusion often comes from globalization. In many Western countries, all long robes for men are casually called “thobes” or “jubbas.”
But just as a suit from Milan differs from one in London, regional thobe designs vary in fabric, fit, and finish.
So next time someone says “They’re the same,” you’ll know—it’s not just a garment, it’s a reflection of culture and craftsmanship.
Which Thobe Is Better for You—Saudi or Emirati?
Choosing the right thobe depends on your purpose, comfort, and preference.
For Formal Occasions
If you often attend office gatherings or formal dinners in the UK, a men’s Saudi thobe is ideal. The collared neckline and structured design give it a polished, modern edge.
For Casual and Cultural Events
For Eid, Nikkah, or family get-togethers, the Emirati thobe wins with its breathable comfort and elegant flow. It adds authenticity to traditional events while keeping you at ease all day.
💡 Did you hear about this? During last year’s Eid in London, men mixed both styles—professionals wore white Saudi jubbas with sleek collars, while others chose soft grey Emirati thobes for relaxed sophistication. The diversity showed how both designs complement the UK’s multicultural fashion scene beautifully.
How Are Saudi and Emirati Thobes Made?
Both styles share exceptional craftsmanship—but differ in tailoring techniques.
Saudi Thobe Tailoring
Saudi thobes follow a Western-inspired pattern with:
- Sharp cuts and body-fitting seams
- Buttoned collars and sleeves
- Premium cotton blends for a smooth fall
Emirati Thobe Tailoring
Emirati thobes maintain regional authenticity, made with:
- Flowing cuts for comfort
- Stitch-free tassel attachment
- Linen or viscose blends suited to warmer climates
DID YOU KNOW?
According to Fashion Arabia, global demand for men’s Saudi thobes in UK rose by 35% in the past two years, driven by modest fashion influencers and online brands offering luxury thobes with regional variations.
Which Thobe Is More Popular in the UK?
The answer depends on where you look!
- In London and Birmingham, Saudi thobes are slightly more common due to their formal appeal.
- In Manchester and Leicester, Emirati thobes dominate, loved for their relaxed, flowing fit.
Online stores show balanced sales of both—proving that British men now appreciate each for its unique character.
Why the UK Loves Both
The rise of multicultural events, Islamic weddings, and Eid festivals across the UK has made both styles mainstream.
Today, men’s Saudi thobes in UK and white Emirati thobes for men in the UK are available in premium cuts and colors—white, grey, tan, and navy being most popular.
About Alif Thobes – The Home of Heritage and Modern Style
Now that you understand the differences between Saudi and Emirati thobes, you might be wondering—where can you find authentic designs in the UK?
That’s where Alif Thobes comes in.
Alif Thobes is the largest men’s thobes brand, offering the best men’s thobes in the UK that beautifully combine tradition and modern tailoring. Whether you’re looking for a white Saudi jubba, a collared thobe with embroidery, or an Emirati thobe for Eid or weddings, every piece reflects comfort, culture, and confidence.
Crafted with premium fabrics and expert stitching, Alif Thobes ensures each garment honors your identity while keeping you effortlessly stylish. Browse their latest collection online and experience luxury modestwear designed for today’s modern gentleman.
The Final Verdict—Saudi vs. Emirati: Two Traditions, One Spirit
Here’s the takeaway:
✅ Saudi thobes represent structured elegance and modern refinement.
✅ Emirati thobes embody cultural grace and relaxed sophistication.
✅ Both are deeply rooted in modesty, identity, and timeless design.
In the end, the “best” thobe isn’t about where it’s from—but how it makes you feel.
So, next time you’re choosing between a white Saudi jubba or a light grey Emirati kandura, remember—you’re not just picking a garment, you’re carrying a legacy.
“Clothes mean nothing until someone lives in them.” – Marc Jacobs
FAQs
Are Saudi thobes and Emirati thobes the same?
No, Saudi thobes feature collars and buttoned cuffs, while Emirati thobes are collarless with tassels, offering a relaxed fit.
Which thobe is more formal?
The Saudi collar thobe is more formal, ideal for office events, Jummah, or weddings in the UK.
Can I wear an Emirati thobe in winter?
Yes! Pair it with a light jacket or bisht for warmth. Many men’s Emirati thobes in the UK are now made with thicker fabrics for colder seasons.
What color thobe suits Eid best?
White thobes for men in UK are classic for Eid, symbolizing purity and grace. Black or navy versions add modern flair.
Where can I buy authentic Saudi or Emirati thobes in the UK?
You can shop online at Alif Thobes, offering the best men’s thobes in the UK, including Saudi jubbas and Emirati thobes crafted to perfection.
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