Choosing Your Size — A Guide to Kandura, Ghutra, and Bisht Sizing
The right kandura size starts with height, then shoulder width, then chest measurement. Ghutras come in sizes by overall dimension; bishts size by length and shoulder breadth. Ashbiliya helps with sizing across 11 UAE branches and via WhatsApp.
Kandura length by height
Height is the most important measurement; the kandura should fall just above the ankle. (Guidance — confirm in-branch.)
| Your height | Approx. kandura length |
|---|---|
| 160 cm | 52" / 132 cm |
| 165 cm | 54" / 137 cm |
| 170 cm | 56" / 142 cm |
| 175 cm | 58" / 147 cm |
| 180 cm | 60" / 152 cm |
| 185 cm | 62" / 157 cm |
| 190 cm | 64" / 162 cm |
Shoulder and chest
Shoulder width is measured across the back from one shoulder bone to the other; chest at the widest point. Kanduras are loose by design, but shoulder width must be accurate.
Cut varies by style
- Saudi: the loosest cut
- Emirati: loose but more structured
- Omani: mid-cut
- Kuwaiti: the slimmest
Ghutra and shemagh sizing
Ghutras are sized by the side length of the square piece in inches, as in the table — and Gulf markets also use a size-number ladder that tracks head circumference: from about 39 for children (95–100 cm tall) to 62 for men over 180 cm, with adult sizes most commonly between 54 and 62. Head circumference is measured with a soft tape from the forehead, above the ears, to the back of the head.
| Size | Use case |
|---|---|
| 44×44 inch | Older children and teens |
| 48×48 inch | Average-build men — most common |
| 50×50 inch | Tall men or a fuller drape |
| 55×55 inch | Formal occasions, larger drapes |
Bisht sizing
- Sized by shoulder-to-ankle length
- Falls just above the floor when standing
- Wider than the kandura it covers
Children’s sizing
| Age | Approx. size |
|---|---|
| Ages 3-5 | 32-36 inch |
| Ages 6-8 | 38-42 inch |
| Ages 9-12 | 44-50 inch |
| Ages 13-15 | 50-54 inch |
How we help you choose
- In-branch: a direct measurement is precise and takes minutes
- By WhatsApp: send your height, shoulder width and chest to +971 58 585 8687
Sources & references
Related questions
What if I’m between two sizes?
Choose the larger size for better comfort, especially in Saudi and Emirati kanduras.
How far above the floor should a kandura end?
About 2-4 cm above the floor when standing.
Can I have a kandura altered after purchase?
Some alterations are possible, but choosing the correct size from the start is best.