What Is the Tassel on an Emirati Thobe Called? (2026)
The tassel on an Emirati thobe is called a tarboush, a signature braided cord that distinguishes the United Arab Emirates' traditional garment from other regional styles. Often known as the farukhah, this decorative element hangs down the chest of the collarless kandura, serving as both a marker of Emirati identity and a historical diffuser for Arabian fragrances.
For US Muslim men, understanding the unique features of the Emirati kandura makes selecting the right thobe for Jumu'ah, Eid, or formal events much easier. Authentic Emirati thobes feature a distinctive V-neck collar without buttons and are available in premium colors like Dark Green, Ice Blue, and Black with gold trim.
This guide breaks down exactly what the tarboush is, how the Emirati kandura compares to the structured Saudi thobe, and the best practices for washing a garment with a delicate braided tassel. Knowing the anatomy of the Emirati style ensures you make an informed choice that balances tradition, comfort, and long-lasting quality.
What is the tassel on an Emirati thobe called?
The tassel on an Emirati thobe is called a tarboush, a signature braided cord that distinguishes the United Arab Emirates' traditional garment from other regional styles. Sometimes referred to by the more technical term farukhah, this decorative element hangs from the collarless neckline of the kandura directly down the center of the chest[1][2]. The modern tarboush construction emerged prominently in the 1960s and 1970s as a refined visual hallmark of Emirati national dress, typically measuring between 15 and 30 centimeters in length[1].
Beyond its striking visual appeal, the tarboush is deeply tied to the UAE's rich fragrance culture[3]. Historically, the tarboush was dipped in perfume to release a pleasant scent as the wearer moved[4][5]. Heritage narratives suggest that Bedouin families would scent the tassel with oud or musk so that men embarking on long journeys would carry the comforting smell of home on their chest[4][1]. This tradition of using the tassel as a fabric-based fragrance diffuser continues today, with many men lightly applying premium oils to the cord before attending Friday prayers[6][7][8].
When you explore an Emirati thobe collection, you will notice that the tarboush is usually crafted from the exact same fabric as the main garment, creating a seamless look[9]. While older versions of the tassel were shorter, the contemporary standard is a long, straight cord that conveys formal elegance[10][9]. This distinct, perfumed tassel remains the single most recognizable feature of the Emirati kandura.
What is the difference between an Emirati kandura and a Saudi thobe?
Authentic Emirati thobes feature a distinctive V-neck collar without buttons and are available in premium colors like Dark Green, Ice Blue, and Black with gold trim. Unlike the structured, high-collared Saudi thobe, the Emirati kandura offers a minimalist, collarless aesthetic centered around the braided tarboush[11][12]. While both are long Gulf robes designed for modesty, their necklines and tailoring create entirely different silhouettes[11][13].
The single most important visual separator between the two garments is the collar[13]. The Saudi style utilizes a standing band collar that typically fastens with one or two buttons, giving it a formal, shirt-like appearance[14][12][13]. In contrast, the Emirati version is entirely collarless, relying on a clean round or V-neck opening that allows the decorative chest tassel to take center stage[11][15][16].
| Feature | Emirati Kandura | Saudi Thobe |
|---|---|---|
| Collar | Collarless (round or V-neck)[11][16] | Standing band collar (1-2 buttons)[14][13] |
| Tassel | Long tarboush/farukhah on the chest[11][12] | No tassel[11][12] |
| Fit & Front | Clean, loose, streamlined drape[11][12] | Tailored, shirt-like front placket[14][13] |
| Sleeves | Typically open and loose | Often features buttoned cuffs[14][16] |
Color selection also plays a role in how these garments are worn. White is the universal standard for daily wear across the Gulf, favored for its practicality in hot climates and its Sunnah preference for Jumu'ah and Eid[14][17]. However, modern men's thobes frequently incorporate richer tones. The Topi Wala's Emirati line includes White, Camel, Navy Blue, Dark Green, Ice Blue, and Black with gold trim. Black is generally reserved for formal evening occasions or weddings[14][17], while lighter neutrals like Camel and Ice Blue offer contemporary versatility for everyday wear[11][18].
How do you wash an Emirati thobe with a tarboush?
To preserve the braided tarboush and fabric quality, always machine wash your Emirati thobe in cold water and use a low-heat dry setting. The tassel is a delicate structural component; aggressive washing or high heat can cause the braided threads to fray, shrink, or lose their sleek appearance. Because the Emirati kandura is crafted from lightweight, breathable easy-care fabric with a soft drape, gentle handling ensures the garment maintains its elegant silhouette for years.
Follow these exact steps to clean your garment safely: 1. Empty pockets and secure the garment: Remove any items and ensure the V-neck is smoothed out so the tarboush does not tangle. 2. Wash on a cold, gentle cycle: Machine wash cold using a mild detergent. Hot water can damage the fabric fibers and warp the shape of the decorative chest tassel. 3. Dry on low heat: Transfer the garment to the dryer on a strictly low-heat setting. Excessive heat can cause shrinkage and ruin the structural integrity of the tarboush. 4. Iron carefully if needed: Use a warm iron only if necessary, taking special care to press around the neckline without flattening the braided cord.
The Topi Wala ships its Emirati thobe collection exclusively within the USA, backing all domestic orders with a strict 7-day return policy. Take advantage of our fast US shipping for your next Eid celebration. Should the fit not meet your expectations, our 7-day return policy allows for a full refund on unused items with tags attached, ensuring you shop with complete confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the tassel on an Emirati thobe called?
The tassel on an Emirati thobe is called a tarboush, or sometimes a farukhah. It is a long, braided cord that hangs from the collarless neckline down the chest, serving as a distinct marker of UAE national dress and a traditional fabric diffuser for Arabian perfumes like oud and musk[1][7].
What is the difference between an Emirati kandura and a Saudi thobe?
The primary difference is the collar and the tassel. An Emirati kandura is collarless and features a long braided chest tassel (tarboush), offering a streamlined, minimalist drape[11][12]. A Saudi thobe features a structured standing band collar, buttoned cuffs, and a shirt-like front placket, and it does not include a tassel[14][13].
How do you wash an Emirati thobe with a tarboush?
You should machine wash your Emirati thobe in cold water on a gentle cycle to protect the delicate braided tassel from fraying. Afterward, use a low-heat dry setting to prevent shrinkage, and apply a warm iron only if needed, being careful not to flatten the tarboush.
What do the different thobe colors mean?
White is the traditional standard for daily wear and is favored as a Sunnah preference for Jumu'ah and Eid[14][17]. Darker colors like Black are considered more formal and suited for evening events, while modern tones like Ice Blue and Camel offer stylish versatility for everyday use[14][17].
References
- Al Farukhah: Unravelling Its Role in Emirati Dress. https://stg.thezay.org/al-farukhah-unravelling-its-role-in-emirati-dress/ (2023-07-11)
- Emirati Thobes: A Symbol of UAE's Rich Cultural Heritage. https://thobecompany.com/emirati-thobes-a-symbol-of-uaes-rich-cultural-heritage-everything-you-need-to-know/ (2024-04-18)
- What goes into UAE perfumes: Inside the ‘liquid gold’ world of oud and the secrets behind every scent. https://gulfnews.com/uae/how-perfumes-are-made-in-the-uae-inside-the-liquid-gold-world-of-oud-and-beyond-1.500539726 (2026-05-14)
- Dubai Design Week | Tarboosh Tales. https://www.dubaidesignweek.ae/programme/2019/tarboosh-tales/ (2025-11-04)
- Maintenance of Traditional Emirati Clothing Guide Tips - Love2laundry. https://www.love2laundry.ae/blog/traditional-emirati-clothing-explained/ (2026-04-10)
- A Brief Guide to Clothing in the UAE - Adventurous Camel. https://www.adventurouscamel.com/post/a-brief-guide-to-clothing-in-the-uae (2026-03-31)
- What Is a Kandura? Emirati & Omani Kandura Guide. https://al-aniq.com/us/blog/2025/11/17/what-is-a-kandura-the-complete-guide-to-emirati-and-omani-kanduras-for-men/ (2025-11-17)
- How do Arabs (especially Khaleejis) smell so good ALL the time? What’s the secret?. https://www.reddit.com/r/UAE/comments/1p6a2va/how_do_arabs_especially_khaleejis_smell_so_good/ (2025-11-25)
- How The Traditional Emirati Dress Has Evolved Over The Last 50 Years. https://meemo.com/blogs/news/how-the-traditional-emirati-dress-has-evolved-over-the-last-50-years (2026-01-19)
- History of the kandura: how the traditional Emirati dress has .... https://www.thenationalnews.com/lifestyle/fashion/history-of-the-kandura-how-the-traditional-emirati-dress-has-evolved-in-the-last-100-years-1.945227 (2019-12-05)
- The Four Gulf Kandura Styles — Emirati, Saudi, Omani, Kuwaiti. https://ashabelia.ae/en/expertise/regional-styles/ (2026-07-11)
- Beginner Guide: Explaining The Different Types Of Thobe. https://al-aniq.com/thobe-types/ (2024-08-28)
- Difference Between Thobe, Jubba, Dishdasha and Kandura. https://www.shababalyola.co.uk/blogs/difference-between-thobe-jubba-dishdasha-kandura (2026-07-08)
- Saudi Thobe Styles: Collars, Cuffs & How to Choose. https://furqanwear.com/blogs/news/saudi-thobe-styles (2026-08-02)
- What Is a Kandura? Emirati & Omani Kandura Guide. https://al-aniq.com/blog/2025/11/17/what-is-a-kandura-the-complete-guide-to-emirati-and-omani-kanduras-for-men/ (2025-11-17)
- Are Thobes Different in the Gulf Countries?. https://www.al-haqthobes.com/blogs/news/are-thobes-different-in-the-gulf-countries (2025-08-29)
- Arab and Bedouin Dress: A Complete Guide to the Thobe, Abaya .... https://geyin.az/en/blog/post/arab-and-bedouin-dress-a-complete-guide-to-the-thobe-abaya-k/ (2026-06-22)
- Emirati vs. Saudi Thobe Differences. https://www.al-haqthobes.com/blogs/news/emirati-vs-saudi-thobe-differences (2026-01-05)