What Is a Thawb? Men's Thawb Clothing Explained

“Thawb” (also spelled thobe or thwab) is the name for the long robe worn by men across much of the Arab world. If you are searching for men’s thawb clothing, here is what the word means and how to choose one.

What is a thawb?

A thawb is an ankle-length, long-sleeved robe worn as everyday and occasion dress. “Thawb” and “thobe” are the same garment — the spelling simply varies by region — and it is closely related to the dishdasha (Gulf) and the jubba.

How to choose a thawb

• Fabric — lighter weaves for summer, heavier for winter.
• Fit — it should sit cleanly at the shoulder and fall to around the ankle.
• Occasion — a plain everyday thawb, or a tailored style for Eid and weddings.
• Colour — white is the classic; neutrals and black are the most versatile.

Thawb clothing at CAVE

The White Classic Collar Thobe is an easy all-occasion starting point. Browse the full thobes collection, and see our related guides to how to wear a thawb and the best thobes for men.

Frequently asked questions

What is a thawb? A long, ankle-length robe worn by men across the Arab world; “thawb” and “thobe” are the same garment.

Is a thawb the same as a thobe? Yes — they are different spellings of the same word.