The climate of Djibouti is very hot and arid and the clothing of the people clearly reflects the weather. The urban people usually wear western clothes while people living in rural areas prefer wearing traditional clothes. Men are seen wearing a sarong-like garment around the waist, known as macawii. The nomads usually drape a white cotton cloth called a tobe; it is very similar to the Roman toga.
Women wear a long cotton dress called the dirac and are generally seen with their heads covered with a scarf or a shawl. Traditional Arabian garb such as the male jellabiya and the female jilbab is also commonly worn. On festivals, women wear jewelry and head-dresses.
The art and architecture of Djibouti is very old and is preserved even now in the form of art works that include calligraphy, plasterwork, and monuments. Many examples of Islamic, Ottoman, and French influences can be found in the carefully constructed motifs and calligraphy.
French and Arabic are the main languages spoken in the country while native languages such as Somali and Afar are also spoken especially by the indigenous people.
Islam is the dominant religion in Djibouti but there are always a number of adherents to Christianity.
The festivals, cuisine, music, handicrafts, and other customs and traditions make the country prominent among the African countries.
There are quite a number of Djibouti recipes that would definitely keep people coming back for more after relishing the lip-smacking delicacies. One of the popular recipes of Djibouti is Soupe djiboutienne (Fah- Fah). Another recipe of the country is Djibouti Lentils which is popular as a side dish. One of the delicious foods, which is usually served as the food for the main course in Djibouti is the Yetakelt Wet which is actually a preparation of spicy mixed vegetable stew. Berber Sauce, Nitter Kebbeh, Banana Fritters are some more popular recipes of the country.
Events like Islamic New Year, Eid Al Adha, Christmas, and Prophets Birthday all are celebrated in the country of Djibouti. Both Ramdan and Christmas are celebrated with pomp and glory in the country. Djibouti Festivals also include the celebration of their Independence Day.
The handicrafts of Djibouti comprise the Ethiopian amber carvings, Somali camel belts, and Ethiopian wood carvings. The government of Djibouti holds national workshops where the handicrafts of the country are exhibited and people also teach how to make these beautiful handicraft items.
The tribal people are also engaged in various exquisite art works and brilliant handicrafts which give the tourism sector the much required boost.
