I’ve written about what women typically wear in Saudi, but what about the men? You’ve probably seen photos of Arab men in long white tunics. This is their traditional outfit called a “thobe” and they’re typical throughout the Middle East. Thobes are usually made of cotton and have a stiff collar and long sleeves. Specific white undergarments are worn underneath. On their head, the men wear a white headdress or a red-and-white checkered “shemagh” with a black cord to hold it in place. Or, as in the photo, they can get creative with colors and styles.
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The outfit passes as formal and professional, yet men also seem to wear it for everyday purposes too. Thobes are always worn for weddings, and some government buildings require it before they’ll allow you inside. Just like abayas can range in price, so too can thobes. Luxury brands are happy to produce their versions (which look identical to the cheap ones, to the untrained eye).
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I know the thobe can seem oddly dress-like to foreigners, but when you’re around men wearing it all the time, it doesn’t feel effeminate at all. I’m just impressed they can wear a stark white, ankle-length garment and keep it clean all day. Anytime I wear a white skirt or jeans, I become a magnet for spilled coffee.
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Sean purchased a thobe and shemagh to wear to a wedding and his friends all got a kick out of it, but that’s the only time he has worn it. Saudis don’t expect expats to wear their traditional clothing.
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When the men aren’t wearing a thobe, they dress normally. However, shorts for men aren’t super common, especially pairs that are above the knee. Being in a very hot climate, Sean had difficulty abiding by this cultural clothing “suggestion.” Early in our time here, Sean and I were meeting at a mall and he got there first. When he tried to enter, security stopped him and said, “Single man must wear trousers! NO shorts! Family man? Shorts okay.” Sean was forced to stand outside and wait until I arrived. Then he was classified as a “family man” because he was w/ his wife, so he was permitted to enter. 😆 Who knew exposed calves could be so scandalous!
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