The Egal
The egal (agal) is a doubled black cord worn over the ghutra or shemagh to hold it on the head, traditionally woven from wool and fine goat hair (mir’az). It is the crown that completes Gulf dress, and its thickness and tassels differ between Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the UAE. Ashbiliya stocks it in a range of sizes across 11 branches; prices are shown in-store.
What is an egal?
The egal is a doubled ring of thick black cord set over the ghutra or shemagh, anchoring it to the head and giving it its finished form. Without it, the ghutra is a piece of cloth; with it, the dress is complete. A well-set egal rests balanced on both sides without pressing, sized to the head measured over the ghutra.
Tradition tells that it began as the rope a Bedouin used to hobble ("aqal") his camel when he dismounted, lifted to the head when he rode on — hence the name. Whether history or heritage lore, the egal has been inseparable from the Gulf man’s bearing for generations.
Egal materials
The traditional egal is woven from sheep’s wool and goat hair; the finest are made of mir’az — the soft under-hair of goats or camels. Modern manufacture often uses a cotton core wrapped in wool, or silk-finish threads that give the glossy "mulamma’" egal its occasion-wear sheen.
- Wool: the durable, traditional choice for daily wear.
- Mir’az (fine hair): the most luxurious and softest material.
- Silk-finish (mulamma’): a quiet sheen, often chosen for occasions.
Saudi vs Qatari vs Emirati egal
The piece is one; identity speaks in the details — thickness, tassels, and how it sits on the head.
| Style | Distinguishing features |
|---|---|
| Saudi | Closest to plain: moderate thickness, light seat, usually without prominent tassels |
| Qatari | Thicker and sturdier, marked by the karkousha — tassel strands hanging at the back ending in black knots — and a short cord called the hadad |
| Emirati | Medium thickness, worn plain or with two slim tassels at the back |
How to choose your egal
- Size first: measure over the ghutra — a loose egal slips, a tight one leaves a mark.
- Weight and seat: try it standing and sitting; a good egal settles without being felt.
- Material by use: wool for daily wear, mir’az or silk-finish for occasions.
- Proportion: match the egal’s thickness to your fold — a high fold carries a thicker egal.
Caring for your egal
An egal is never machine-washed. Clean it dry or with a soft brush, and keep it hung or resting free of pressure so its rings keep their shape. If it gets wet, dry it away from direct sun.
The egal at Ashbiliya
In the accessories section of our 11 branches you will find egals in a range of sizes and materials to suit both ghutra and shemagh, including children’s sizes. Branch staff will help fit yours; prices are shown in-store, and WhatsApp is open for questions.
Related questions
What does the egal do?
It anchors the ghutra or shemagh to the head and gives the dress its finished, balanced form — an essential part of complete Gulf attire.
What is an egal made of?
Traditionally sheep’s wool and goat hair, with mir’az the finest grade; modern egals often use a cotton core wrapped in wool or silk-finish thread.
What is the difference between Qatari and Saudi egals?
The Qatari egal is thicker and sturdier with the karkousha tassels at the back and the hadad cord; the Saudi egal is lighter and plainer, usually without prominent tassels.
Is the egal one-size?
No — sizes vary by head circumference, and it should be fitted over the ghutra for the right seat.
Do children wear egals?
Yes — smaller sizes are part of our range.
How do I clean an egal?
Dry-clean it or brush it gently; keep it away from pressure and damp. Never machine-wash it.
How do I find egal prices?
Prices are shown in-store. Message WhatsApp +971 58 585 8687 or visit your nearest branch.