The Ghutra: A Symbol of Emirati Culture and Pride
Wearing the headscarf, known as the Ghutra in Arabic, is an integral part of Arab culture for Emirati men. It's not just a piece of clothing; it's a symbol of national pride. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), you'll find two primary styles of Ghutras: the white Ghutra and the chequered red one, often referred to as the shemagh. For simplicity, we'll use the term Ghutra to encompass both.
Colors and Traditions
While other colors like black exist, only red and white Ghutras are traditionally worn in the UAE. There's a specific way to tie the Ghutra Dubai, ensuring it's as clean and neat as the Arabs prefer. Ghutras are versatile, worn for both formal and informal occasions, wrapped around the head to complete the outfit. For traditional activities, an Egal (a black cord used to secure the Ghutra) is often added.
The Ghutra as a Symbol
The Ghutra Dubai has become a symbol of Emirate residents, worn by people of all ages and social classes. Historically made from cotton, the Ghutra serves both as a fashionable accessory and a vital piece of equipment to protect against the harsh desert environment. The city of Koufa, located 170 km from Baghdad, even derives its name from the term "keffiyeh," a similar headscarf.
Protection Against the Elements
In the UAE's mild and dry climate, the Ghutra is essential to shield against the sun's heat and sand winds. The luminous color of the headdress helps reflect the sun's heat, keeping the body cool. It also provides complete coverage for the neck and face, preventing sunburn. The Ghutra is a necessity to protect against heat, sandstorms, and the sudden drop in temperature overnight, typical of desert climates.
Keffiyeh vs. Ghutra
The Emirati Keffiyeh has its roots in the Arab Bedouin tradition. Originally, it was an ornament that distinguished city residents from rural nomads. However, the Keffiyah is essentially a pure white textile, also known as the Ghutra Dubai. Regardless of the name, this traditional scarf can be worn in two ways: by fastening it with an Agal or simply connecting it to the head.
Culture and the Ghutra
The Ghutra has always been pure white in Emirati culture, representing simplicity and modesty. Emirati men's dress includes cultural innovations, such as the red and white-controlled headdress, although this is subject to debate. Due to the diverse customs and cultural distinctions of Middle East peoples, you'll find a wide variety of headdresses and clothes. Despite these variations, both fabric items serve an environmental function while adhering to the standards of the Islamic faith.
A Link to Tradition
The Ghutra is a significant part of Middle East culture, helping to connect people with their native country's customs and traditions. It's not just a valuable item; it's often worn with a long white shirt, known as a thobe, extending to the knee. The national dress consists of the thobe and the Ghutra. Most Saudis and Emiratis wear their national clothes with pride, ensuring the thobe is clean and well-ironed. In Middle Eastern society, the idea of 'honor' influences the wearer's image, and even the slightest stain on the thobe can be seen as a disadvantage.