Niqāb facts for kids

A Yemeni woman wearing a niqab

A niqab is a special piece of clothing worn by some Muslim women. It covers a woman's entire body, including her face, but usually leaves her eyes visible. Women who choose to wear a niqab in public are sometimes called Niqabis.

The niqab is most commonly seen in countries like Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Yemen, and Egypt. It is a way for women to show their modesty and religious devotion, as part of their Islamic faith.

What is the Niqab?

The niqab is a veil that covers the face, leaving only the eyes uncovered. It is often worn with a loose, long outer garment called an abaya. This clothing helps women follow the Islamic teaching of modesty, which encourages them to dress in a way that does not draw attention to their physical appearance.

Why Women Wear It

Women choose to wear the niqab for different reasons. For many, it is a personal choice and a way to express their religious beliefs. They see it as an act of worship and a way to follow the teachings of Islam. Some women also feel a sense of protection and privacy when wearing it.

Where the Niqab is Worn

The niqab is worn in various parts of the world, especially in some Arab countries. Its use can depend on local customs, traditions, and how different communities understand Islamic teachings. While it is common in some areas, it is less common in others.

Other Types of Islamic Dress

The niqab is one of several types of head coverings and veils worn by Muslim women. Other common types include:

• Hijab: This is a headscarf that covers the hair, neck, and sometimes the chest, but leaves the face open. It is the most widely worn form of Islamic head covering.
• Burqa: This is a full-body veil that covers the entire body and face. It often has a mesh screen over the eyes, so the wearer can see out. The burqa is less common than the niqab or hijab.

Each of these garments has a different style and level of coverage, reflecting various interpretations of modesty within Islam.

Images for kids

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  A woman wearing a niqab in Yemen

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  A woman wearing a niqab in the United States

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  A woman wearing a niqab in Syria

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  Woman in Saudi Arabia wearing a niqab

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  Women in Saudi Arabia wearing niqabs

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  A Muslim woman with niqab in Sylhet, Bangladesh.

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  Woman in Bosnia and Herzegovina wearing a niqab, c. 1906