Hirbawi: The Last Keffiyeh Factory in Palestine
The keffiyeh, a traditional Palestinian scarf, has become a global symbol of solidarity. Hirbawi, a family-run factory in Hebron founded in 1961 by Judeh Herbawi's father, is the last remaining keffiyeh producer in Palestine. Initially operating with two looms, it now uses fifteen and sells online worldwide. Despite competition from Chinese and Indian manufacturers and Israeli occupation, Hirbawi sustains local economy and cultural heritage. The factory is part of Disarming Design from Palestine, a non-profit project based in Belgium that promotes Palestinian design through participatory methods, shipping products from Hebron to their studio in Belgium for international sale. The project aims to decolonize design and support Palestinian economic recovery. Actor Javier Bardem wore a keffiyeh at the 2025 Emmy Awards, stating he refuses to work with those who support the Gaza genocide or apartheid.
Key facts
- Hirbawi is the last keffiyeh factory in Palestine, located in Hebron.
- Founded in 1961 by Judeh Herbawi's father with two looms.
- Now operates fifteen looms and has an online shop.
- Part of Disarming Design from Palestine, a non-profit project based in Belgium.
- The project uses participatory design methods to support a decolonial future.
- Products are made by local artisans and shipped from Belgium.
- Javier Bardem wore a keffiyeh at the 2025 Emmy Awards.
- Bardem stated he will not work with those who support the Gaza genocide or apartheid.
Entities
Artists
- Javier Bardem
- Judeh Herbawi
Institutions
- Hirbawi
- Disarming Design from Palestine
- Artribune
Locations
- Hebron
- Palestine
- Belgium
- Gaza
- Oslo
- China
- India