The regions of Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia, a country rich in cultural heritage and geographical diversity, is divided into 13 administrative regions known as provinces (mintaqah). These provinces are grouped into five main geographical regions: Northern, Southern, Eastern, Western, and Central. Each province has its own unique characteristics in terms of geography, climate, culture, and economic activities.
Overview of Traditional Costumes and Historical Context
Central Region: Riyadh’s traditional attire reflects its status as the political and administrative heart of Saudi Arabia, with a blend of modern and traditional elements.
Eastern Region: The Eastern Province’s costumes signify its economic prosperity and historical trade connections, featuring luxurious fabrics and detailed embroidery.
Western Region: Makkah and Medina’s attire emphasize modesty and religious significance, reflecting their roles as spiritual centres of Islam.
Northern Region: Traditional clothing in the northern provinces combines practical desert wear with ornamental designs, influenced by historical trade routes and cultural heritage.
Southern Region: Southern provinces showcase vibrant and colourful costumes, reflecting their rich cultural traditions, diverse landscapes, and historical trade connections.
These traditional costumes not only highlight the cultural diversity across Saudi Arabia’s provinces but also connect each region to its historical roots and heritage.
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Harb thobe with an embroidered yoke
Harb tribe Harb thobe with an embroidered yoke surrounded by handmade nacre buttons and a patchwork hem. The sleeves are long, always in two colours and triangular in shape. The headdress is decorated with buttons. The great oasis in the lava-flows of the northern Hijaz, known as al-Madinah al-Munawwarah or[...]
Rashaidah thobe with patchwork decoration
Rashaidah Tribe Rashaidah thobe with patchwork decoration on the front, back and the right sleeve. The long burqu' (face mask) is embroidered with silver thread and has a fringe. The mountains of Jabal Shammar shield northern Najd from the sands of the Great Nafud desert. Grazing is good and the[...]
Rashaidah thobe of multicoloured patchwork
Rashaidah tribe Rashaidah thobe of multicoloured patchwork. The velvet (bukhnuq) headdress has a panel in the back and is embroidered with metal beads in geometric patterns. The mountains of Jabal Shammar shield northern Najd from the sands of the Great Nafud desert. Grazing is good and the area was famed[...]
Najd, Central Region and Eastern Region thobe of fine Indian silk
Najd and Central Region Najd, Central Region and Eastern Region thobe of fine Indian silk embroidered with sequins and gold thread. The sleeves are voluminous and are brought around to cover the head. Central Saudi Arabia, or Najd, is a land of desert, escarpment and oases. Traditionally, this region has[...]
Qassim thick wool woman’s aba
Qassim, Northern Region Qassim thick wool woman's aba (cloak) embroidered with gold thread and having elaborate gold thread tassels. This type of aba is for the bride to wear on her wedding night. The mountains of Jabal Shammar shield northern Najd from the sands of the Great Nafud desert. Grazing[...]






