HOW TO: Tie your Shemagh!

Commonly, the cloth was always called "Palestinian scarf", which was probably due to Mr. Arafat, who always wore it. Only since Western military has been more active in Arab countries, the tendency towards the "Pali" has been associated with the more correct name "Shemag". In fact, it is called Kufiya (also called Kafiya, Kefije), a traditional garment for men in the Arab world. It originated around the city of Kufa, hence the name. It provides very good protection against the sun and sandy wind. And the love for the cloth has nothing to do with ethnicity: it is simply practical to wear in hot and cold weather in those countries - and not only there - and has a variety of uses. In summer, the cloth can be moistened. It cools the face while slowly drying in the sun. In winter, a wool or cotton cloth is recommended. For those who have always wanted to know how to tie the cloth correctly (no, not like the SEAL in the image above!), you can learn it here with this video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-OrxtMTy7SY