As Ramadan approaches each year, many brothers across the UK begin preparing early. Mosques get busier, evenings feel more focused and people start getting their clothing ready for the month. For many, a new thobe is part of that preparation, especially when they want something fresh for both Ramadan and Eid.. Whether you prefer a Moroccan kaftan, a zip front gandoura, an Omani thobe, an Emirati thobe or a warm djellaba, ordering at the right time makes your experience much smoother.
Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on the evening of Tuesday 17 February or Wednesday 18 February. The first full day of fasting will be on Wednesday 18 February or Thursday 19 February. Because this falls in the middle of a cold UK winter, most people start buying their thobes in January or early February to avoid last minute stock problems or delivery delays.
This guide explains exactly when you should buy your Ramadan thobe for 2026 and how to choose the right style for the month ahead.
The Best Buying Timeline for Ramadan
2026
Now until 20 January: The Best Time to Order
This is the ideal time to buy your Ramadan thobe. Stock levels are highest and every colour, size and style is available. If you want a Moroccan kaftan with two pockets, a Moroccan zip gandoura, an Omani thobe, an Emirati thobe or a warm djellaba, everything is still in full supply.
Ordering early gives you time to try your thobe on, check the length, wash it once to test the fabric and complete an exchange if needed. Standard UK delivery usually arrives within two to three business days, so your parcel will reach you quickly and without delays.
Shop Moroccan Kaftans
Shop Moroccan Zip Gandouras
21 January to 3 February: A Safe and Comfortable Window
This is still a good time to order if you prefer buying a little closer to the date. Most sizes remain available and your order should arrive in early February.
Common sizes such as 54, 56, and 58 start selling out first, especially in classic colours like white, black and beige. Moroccan kaftans and gandouras sell out quickly in these shades.
If you need an exchange, this period still gives you enough time to complete it before Ramadan begins.
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Shop Omani Thobes
4 February to 10 February: The Final Comfortable Week
This is your last comfortably safe week. With standard delivery taking two to three business days, your order should arrive by 13 February. That gives you a few days before Ramadan begins on the 17th or 18th.
However, the weekend of 14 and 15 February falls right before Ramadan and courier activity slows down. If your parcel arrives on Friday and you need an exchange, the turnaround becomes tight. Express delivery is safer during this time.
Stock will be limited in the most popular sizes and colours.
11 February to 16 February: Risky and Not Recommended
Ordering this close to Ramadan carries risks. Even with express shipping, there is no room for mistakes. If the size is wrong or the fit is not what you expected, an exchange may not be possible before Ramadan starts.
Stock is also limited at this stage, especially in popular styles and colours.
After 16 February: Too Late for Guaranteed Delivery
Once Ramadan week begins, delivery before the first night cannot be guaranteed. If the parcel arrives late or faces any delay, it may arrive after Ramadan starts. Ordering earlier removes this pressure entirely.
Why Buying Early Matters for UK Customers
Delivery Timing and the Weekend Before Ramadan
UK delivery is usually quick, but the timing of Ramadan in 2026 makes things sensitive. Standard delivery takes two to three business days, and the weekend of 14 and 15 February falls directly before Ramadan. If your parcel arrives on Friday and you need a different size, the timing becomes restrictive.
Ordering early ensures faster processing and avoids the pre Ramadan rush.
The 14 Day Exchange Window
Customers have fourteen days from delivery to request an exchange. The return journey, inspection and dispatch of a replacement can take up to a week. Ordering in January keeps this process simple. Ordering in mid February compresses the timeline and may make an exchange impossible before Ramadan.
Popular Sizes Sell Out First
Sizes 54, 56, and 58 sell out the fastest in UK Islamic clothing stores. Colours such as white, cream and beige move quickly, especially in Moroccan kaftans, gandouras and standard thobes.
If you wear a common size or want a traditional colour, ordering in January is the safest option.
Preparing Your Thobes Before Ramadan
Buying your thobes early gives you time to wash them once before Ramadan. This helps the fabric settle and removes any light factory scent.You will see how the material behaves when washed and dried, which helps if you plan to wear the same thobes throughout the month and have them ready for Eid as well.
This is particularly useful for Moroccan kaftans, Omani thobes and djellabas, which have their own unique textures.
Choosing the Right Style for Ramadan 2026
Moroccan Kaftan
A stylish and elegant choice, suitable for busy evenings at the mosque, community iftars and formal nights.
Moroccan Zip Gandoura
A practical option for daily use. The front zip makes wudu easier and the two pocket design helps you carry essentials.
Omani Thobe
Light, comfortable and traditional. It works well in warm mosques and offers a clean, classic look.
Emirati Thobe
Smooth and tailored with a smart appearance. A great option for Jummah or evening prayers.
Moroccan Djellaba
Ideal for cold UK evenings. The hood and long cut offer warmth when walking to the mosque and match Islamic clothing more naturally than a coat.
How Many Thobes Do You Need for Ramadan?
One Thobe
Possible, but limiting. If it needs washing or becomes marked, you have no backup.
Two Thobes
The most practical option. You can rotate between them and reduce wear.
Three to Four Thobes
Ideal for most people. You can choose the style that suits each day, each weather change and each occasion.
Sizing: Getting It Right the First Time
Check the size chart and measure your chest and preferred length. Moroccan styles tend to be roomier, while Emirati thobes have a more tailored fit. Omani thobes fall in between.
If you are unsure between two sizes, ordering early gives you enough time for an exchange.
Fabric Weight and UK Weather
Ramadan 2026 falls in February and March, when temperatures range between 5 and 10 degrees. Medium weight fabrics work best during this period. Djellabas and hooded thobes are ideal for cold outdoor walks, while lightweight Omani and Emirati thobes work well indoors.
Current Offers for Ramadan Preparation
Thawāb Clothing currently offers 20 percent off most thobes, including Moroccan kaftans, Moroccan zip gandouras, Omani thobes, Emirati thobes and djellabas. Free standard UK delivery is included on all orders.
Recommended Order Dates for Ramadan 2026
Order by 31 January
Best choice for full selection and stress free preparation.
Order by 10 February
Still safe. Expected delivery by 13 February.
Order after 13 February
Only recommended if you already know your exact size and style.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is January too early to buy a Ramadan thobe?
No. It is the best time to order because stock levels are high and exchanges are easy.
How long does UK delivery take?
Standard delivery takes two to three business days. Express delivery takes one to two business days.
Will popular sizes sell out?
Yes. Medium and Large in white, cream and beige sell out first.
Should I buy one thobe or multiple?
Two is practical for most people. Three or four offer the best rotation.
What is the latest safe time to order?
10 February is the latest recommended date for comfortable delivery.
Final Advice
If you want the best choice, the best fit and a calm start to Ramadan, order your thobe before the end of January. It gives you time to prepare, try everything on and make changes if needed. Whether you choose a Moroccan kaftan, a zip front gandoura, an Omani or Emirati thobe or a warm djellaba, early planning always makes Ramadan feel smoother and more organised.
Shop early, prepare well and enjoy a peaceful start to Ramadan 2026.