The Different Types of Muslim Men’s Headwear

Muslim men’s headwear varies significantly across regions and cultures, displaying a rich tapestry of history, tradition and style. While these garments are deeply embedded within the regional cultures of various Muslim-majority countries, they have also become symbols associated with Islamic identity – each piece often carrying unique political, societal or identity-oriented connotations.

Here, we explore some of the most prominent types.

Shemagh

A shemagh is a chequered scarf typically made of cotton; its design comprises red or black checks on a white base, although other colours are also used. Originating in the Arab world, particularly in the deserts of the Middle East, the shemagh is worn wrapped around the head and secured in place without any pins or buttons.

This headgear offers protection against sun and sand, serving a practical utilitarian function in harsh desert environments. But today, its practicality is secondary to its symbolism and local identity (just like most of the “functional” headwear in this list).

Ghutra

Similar to the shemagh but generally in white, or sometimes in a chequered pattern, the ghutra is a square piece of cloth primarily worn by men in Arab countries along the Persian Gulf. It is typically fashioned from cotton and can either be fastened with an “agal” (a black cord), or simply wrapped and draped over the head. The specific way it is styled and worn can be indicative of regional or tribal identity.

Keffiyeh

Often confused with the shemagh, the keffiyeh is traditionally made from a white fabric with distinct black strips formed into squares. It’s worn extensively in Palestine as a symbol of heritage and national pride. In modern times, this headscarf has evolved into a potent icon of resistance with the Palestinian cause globally, and is regularly worn by non-Muslims and non-Palestinians as an act of solidarity.

Taqiyah

The Taqiyah is a rounded skull cap that is found across various Muslim cultures. Predominantly worn by men, it can range from simple plain styles to those adorned with elaborate patterns or embroidery. Worn for religious purposes like daily prayers, the taqiyah acts as a humble expression of faith rather than an explicit fashion statement, despite any ornamentation.

Fez

Named after the Moroccan city of Fez, this brimless cylindrical hat usually comes in red with an elongated black tassel attached to the top. It was famously adopted by Ottomans and has since carried connotations of Muslim identity across varied geographies including Morocco and parts of Asia.

Today, it’s mostly worn on ceremonial occasions and has acquired more of a cultural than day-to-day functional status. The romanised spelling is sometimes fas, fès or fes, but they all mean the same thing and can refer to the headwear or the city (if capitalised).

Kufi

Similar to the taqiyah, a kufi is a knitted or crocheted hat worn for religious purposes around Africa and among African diaspora communities. Known for its snug fit on the head, it may feature bold geometric patterns or subdued designs, depending on the cultural context.

Topi

Particularly prevalent in South Asia, “topi” is an Urdu word that simply means cap. The style can differ vastly, with some hugging the head, while others have rigid cylindrical sides and a domed top. South Asian Muslims often wear a white crocheted version during prayers. It functions similarly to taqiyah, promoting modesty and religiosity.

Tagelmust

The Tagelmust is predominately donned by nomadic Tuareg men across the Saharan region of North Africa. Exceedingly versatile as both headgear and veil, it’s typically dyed indigo blue, which often stains the skin underneath faintly bluish. It’s traditionally seen as being associated with nobility.

Turban  

Ubiquitous across Middle East regions and South Asia, turbans come in countless styles according to religious sects, ethnicities, local customs and social statuses. In some areas, turbans serve as indicators of social hierarchies or marital statuses. The turban is widely worn across the Middle East and South Asia, and isn’t exclusively worn by Muslims – Sikhs and some Hindus also have versions of the headwear.

Imamah

Distinguished from ordinary turbans for its religious significance, the imamah often consists of a long plain black or white cloth tightly wound around a taqiyah or kufi cap, symbolising piety amongst predominantly Shi’ite communities. However, it’s also found in various Sunni traditions, where it shows scholarly authority.

There’s a fair amount of blurring around the edges when it comes to definitions, especially between the shemagh, ghutra and keffiyeh. Strictly speaking, all three are types of keffiyeh. But anyone who knows their Muslim headwear will be able to glean a lot of information about a wearer’s religion, culture and status from the type they have on.