Keffiyeh Arafat

Far more than a scarf: a piece of Palestinian history that became a national symbol.

Recognisable by its black and white pattern and the inscription شماغ النشامى الاصلي, which can be translated as “the authentic keffiyeh of the courageous,” this design carries the history of one of Palestine’s most recognisable symbols.

From the fellahin to a national symbol

Before becoming a political emblem, the keffiyeh (كوفية) was notably part of the everyday dress of the fellahin, Palestine’s rural farming communities.

A major turning point came during the 1936–1939 Palestinian Revolt, a mass uprising against British Mandatory rule and British policies supporting the Zionist project. The prominent role of rural communities and fighters in the revolt contributed to transforming the keffiyeh into a political and national symbol.

Rebels also encouraged Palestinians in the cities to replace the tarbush, more closely associated with urban society, with the rural keffiyeh. Its widespread adoption helped fighters from the countryside blend into the wider population. A garment once associated primarily with rural life thus became a visible expression of Palestinian unity and identity.

A symbol carried through generations

After 1948, the keffiyeh retained and deepened this symbolic meaning. As Palestinians experienced displacement and exile, elements associated with the land and rural life — including the keffiyeh, olive tree and traditional embroidery — became increasingly important representations of Palestinian identity.

In the following decades, the black and white keffiyeh became closely associated with Yasser Arafat, whose consistent use of it during public appearances contributed to its international recognition.

Today, it continues to be worn in Palestine and around the world, remaining immediately associated with Palestinian identity, national memory and solidarity with Palestine.

« شماغ النشامى الاصلي »

This particular design bears the Arabic inscription:

شماغ النشامى الاصلي

“The authentic keffiyeh of the courageous.”

It is offered by Saad, a Palestinian shopkeeper in Jerusalem’s Old City and Palestinement’s very first partner.

Measuring approximately 122 × 122 cm, it can be wrapped around the neck, worn over the shoulders or styled in a variety of ways.

Slight variations in pattern, dimensions or finishing may occur from one piece to another.