Frequently asked questions
The garment, the fit, the care, and everything around getting one to your door.
The garment
What is a FARWA?
A FARWA is a traditional Bedouin winter coat originating in the Levant and worn across Syria, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the Gulf. It is characterised by a generous cut, a fabric outer shell, and a thick lining designed for cold desert nights.
Is a FARWA for men or women?
Historically the FARWA was a men's garment. Over the past decade it has been adopted by women across the region, and our pieces are designed as unisex outerwear.
What is the difference between a FARWA and a bisht?
A bisht is a formal ceremonial cloak, usually unlined, worn for weddings and official occasions. A FARWA is a functional winter coat with a thick insulating lining. The bisht is about presence; the FARWA is about warmth.
Can I wear a FARWA outside the Middle East?
Yes. The oversized cut layers easily over both traditional and Western clothing, and the lining is engineered for genuine cold. It earns its keep anywhere the temperature drops below 10 degrees.
What are the three collections?
Classic is the FARWA in its most essential expression — no hood, no pockets, nothing superfluous. Signature adds a generous hood and deep functional pockets. Heritage is our most considered creation, in ultra-soft premium faux suede that drapes with uncommon elegance.
Materials & craft
What are the coats made from?
100% premium faux suede, chosen for how it drapes, how it ages, and the fact that no animal carries the cost. The luxury is in the design and the hand, not in the animal.
Where are they made?
Each coat is cut and hand-finished in Dubai in limited runs. Linings are set by hand and seams are pressed, not overlocked. The company is registered in London and everything ships from the UAE.
Do you release seasonal collections?
No. We release pieces when they are ready, not on a seasonal calendar, which means some styles sell out and do not return. No seasonal drops, no logos on the outside, no sale.
Sizing & fit
What sizes do you offer?
Pieces are offered in combined sizes, S/M and M/L. The coats are designed with a relaxed, enveloping fit, meant to be thrown over what you are already wearing.
How should a FARWA be worn?
Two ways. Draped to half-calf gives a contemporary silhouette that suits everyday elegance and semi-formal occasions, and layers well over a kandura or casual dress. Worn at full length it becomes the classic, regal presentation for formal events and celebrations.
Can I have a different length?
Yes — we offer custom alterations on request for a permanently tailored length. Write to us before ordering and we will arrange it.
I am between sizes. Which should I choose?
Because the cut is loose and unstructured, most people are comfortable in either size; the choice is about how much drape you want. Send us the wearer's usual jacket size and height and we will tell you which we would send.
Care
How do I clean my FARWA?
It is machine washable at 30°C on a delicate cycle. Air-dry only — never tumble dry, as heat damages faux suede fibres. For minor spots, use a faux suede eraser or a damp cloth.
How do I keep the texture?
Use a faux suede brush to gently lift dust, brushing in one direction to preserve the nap. A faux suede protector spray before first wear helps. Allow the coat to air out between wears.
How should I store it?
In a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, on a padded hanger to hold the shoulder shape, in a breathable garment bag — never plastic. Cedar blocks deter moths naturally.
Delivery
How fast is delivery in the UAE?
Orders placed before 2 PM are delivered the same day within Dubai and select areas. Other Emirates take 1–2 business days. Delivery is complimentary on all UAE orders.
Do you ship internationally?
We currently ship to the UAE, the GCC, Europe, the United States and Canada, and Australia and New Zealand. The GCC takes 3–5 business days and other destinations 7–14 business days. Shipping is calculated at checkout based on destination and weight. If you are elsewhere, write to us and we will see what we can arrange.
Who pays customs and duties?
Any applicable customs fees or import duties are the responsibility of the customer.
Returns & exchanges
What is your return policy?
We offer a 14-day return policy from delivery for a full refund or exchange. Items must be unworn, unwashed, and in original condition with all tags attached, returned in their original packaging.
How do I start a return?
Email hello@farwastudio.com with your order number and reason for return. We will send return instructions and, for UAE orders, a shipping label. Once received and inspected, refunds are processed within 5–7 business days.
Can I exchange for another size or colour?
Yes. Follow the return process and tell us you would like an exchange. Subject to availability, we ship the new piece as soon as we receive the original.
What about custom orders?
Custom or personalised orders cannot be returned unless defective. If you ever find a manufacturing fault we will make it right — whether that means repair, replacement, or refund.
Orders & wholesale
How do I track my order?
Every order confirmation email contains a link to its own status page, which updates as the piece is prepared and dispatched, and needs no password. If you created an account at checkout you can also sign in to see your order history.
Is checkout secure?
Yes. Payment is processed securely by Shopify, our e-commerce platform. We never see or store your card details.
Do you offer wholesale?
Yes — wholesale starts from 100 pieces, with custom pricing. Write to us with your store name and location and we will come back to you within 1–2 business days.
How quickly do you reply?
We answer every message ourselves, normally within 1–2 business days.
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