Pakistani tailor brings Gulf fashion to Iraq’s Rabia

NINEVEH — Pakistani tailor Muhammad Waqas has launched a Gulf-style “dishdasha” tailoring shop in Rabia, Nineveh, bringing a touch of Gulf fashion to northwestern Iraq. Demand for his custom garments, particularly in Saudi, Kuwaiti, and Qatari styles, has exceeded expectations, with Saudi designs proving especially popular among local residents.

Waqas, who spent a decade tailoring in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, said the overwhelming response has prompted him to expand his team. “When I came to Rabia, by the grace of God, the work was abundant and busy, as you can see,” he said. “Within less than a month, I will bring three tailors from Pakistan to meet the high demand and ensure top-quality tailoring.”

The tailor’s arrival in Rabia was facilitated by Sheikh Khamis Al-Zobaie, a resident of Tel Sameer village, who assisted Waqas with legal entry procedures. His shop, located in the Al-Baraka building in Rabia’s main market, offers tailoring services at 25,000 IQD ($17) per dishdasha, with fabric prices ranging between 70,000 and 100,000 IQD ($46 to $66) for customers who buy materials on-site.

“Customers can bring their own fabric, and we provide tailoring in any style—Qatari, Kuwaiti, Saudi, or Iraqi—all at top quality,” Waqas explained, emphasizing his dedication to maintaining Gulf-style professionalism in his work.

The rising demand for Gulf-style dishdashas in Rabia reflects a growing interest in regional fashion trends. Waqas’s venture is quickly becoming a hallmark of tailored elegance in the area, combining his expertise with local preferences.

Among Arabs, the dishdasha remains a deeply symbolic garment, representing cultural identity and heritage. While it is traditionally worn across the Gulf, Iraq, Jordan, Syria, and North Africa, regional styles and tailoring nuances distinguish its many variations.