Saudi-style caftan draws shoppers in Mosul as entrepreneur launches Gulf fashion line

MOSUL — A Saudi-style women’s garment known as the caftan is drawing growing interest among shoppers in Mosul, following the launch of a local import line inspired by Gulf fashion trends.

The idea emerged during a visit by a Saudi businessman to Mosul, where he observed similarities between Iraqi and Saudi women’s attire. He suggested to his host, Mosul-based entrepreneur Fahad al-Laheibi, that he establish an import line for Saudi women’s galabiyas and caftans.

Laheibi said he later secured an agency agreement with the Saudi brand Lana Azim, known across the Gulf for women’s clothing. He now manages the brand’s branch at Ashur Mall on the left bank of Mosul.

“The level of turnout from Mosuli women is more than good,” Laheibi told 964media, attributing the demand to Gulf-inspired designs that may be new to Mosul’s fashion market, as well as the quality of fabrics, including chiffon, silk, satin, crepe and amoniza. Prices range from 35,000 Iraqi dinars ($23) to 120,000 dinars ($80).

The caftan, originally of Moroccan origin, is widely worn in the Gulf in a simplified form. It typically consists of two pieces — a robe and a dress — often featuring hand embroidery.