Keffiyeh Red

An iconic element of Palestinian culture, in its distinctive red and white version.

The Palestinian keffiyeh (كوفية) is far more than a scarf. Worn for generations, it gradually became one of the most recognisable expressions of Palestinian national identity during the 20th century.

This version is distinguished by its red pattern on a white background, offering an alternative to the renowned black and white Palestinian keffiyeh.

From traditional dress to a Palestinian symbol

Originally associated particularly with rural communities, the keffiyeh acquired major political significance during the 1936–1939 Arab Revolt against the British Mandate. Its use spread beyond the countryside, gradually contributing to its development as a marker of Palestinian national identity.

Its symbolic importance continued to grow over the following decades through Palestinian political movements and national mobilisation. The keffiyeh became a garment capable of expressing belonging, memory and Palestinian identity.

Different colours and ways of wearing the keffiyeh have also been associated with different Palestinian political currents depending on the period and context. These associations, however, should not be understood as a single or fixed historical code.

From Jerusalem’s Old City

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

Measuring approximately 122 × 122 cm, its generous square format allows it to 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 compared with the photographs.