The Harb Tribe
Location: Northern Hijaz, including the region surrounding al-Madinah al-Munawwarah
The vast oasis of al-Madinah al-Munawwarah, “The Illuminated City,” lies amidst the ancient lava fields of the northern Hijaz. It was here, in 622 CE, that the Prophet Muhammad sought refuge during his migration (Hijrah) from Makkah. This event marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar. In Madinah, the Prophet established the first Muslim community, and it remained his home until his passing in 632 CE, after he had successfully united the Arabian Peninsula under Islam and reinstated the pilgrimage to Makkah.
The region around Madinah was historically dominated by the powerful Bedouin tribe of Harb, who played a key role in regional trade. The Harb tribe controlled caravan routes connecting central Najd with Madinah, Makkah, and the Red Sea port of Jeddah, acting as traders, guides, and protectors of goods and pilgrims.
Traditional Harbi dress is both practical and distinctive. Women’s garments are typically decorated with embroidery and rows of buttons, with heavy patchwork at the hem for durability and decoration. Blue cotton cloth was especially favoured and became something of a Harb trademark. Coins were commonly incorporated into jewellery, including on face veils such as the burqu‘, where they added both sparkle and sound to a woman’s appearance.
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Explore & Discover our collection from The Harb Tribe
Harb thobe in blue with alternating green on the sleeve panels
Harb tribe Harb thobe in blue with alternating green on the sleeve panels, and patchwork on the shoulders. The burqu ' (face mask) is made of yellow silk and the front is embroidered with real pearls. The great oasis in the lava-flows of the northern Hijaz, known as al-Madinah al-Munawwarah or “The Illuminated City”, was the place where the Prophet[...]
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 “The Illuminated City”, was the place where the Prophet Muhammad[...]