Weaving Resistance: The Last Keffiyeh Factory in Palestine
June 2015
In the heart of the West Bank city of Hebron, the rhythmic clatter of looms echoes through the Hirbawi Textile Factory — the last remaining factory in the occupied Palestinian territories to produce the original keffiyeh. The iconic black-and-white patterned scarf has long symbolized Palestinian resistance, resilience, and identity, making it a powerful emblem in the struggle for freedom and justice.
Founded in 1961 by Yasser Hirbawi, the family-run business quickly grew into a thriving enterprise. At its peak, the factory employed 25 workers who operated 15 machines, weaving approximately 150,000 keffiyehs annually. The craftsmanship of the Hirbawi keffiyeh, distinguished by its intricate patterns and high-quality cotton fabric, made it a household staple across Palestine and beyond.
However, the factory’s success began to unravel in the wake of the 1993 Oslo Accords. Market liberalization policies enabled the import of cheaply manufactured keffiyehs from China, which flooded the global market. As mass-produced imitations undercut the price of the authentic Palestinian-made scarves, the factory struggled to compete. By 2010, production had plummeted to a mere 10,000 scarves annually, forcing the Hirbawi family to reduce operations to only four functioning machines. The legacy of Palestine’s traditional keffiyeh was at risk of being erased.
Yet, the spirit of resilience that the keffiyeh represents was mirrored in the determination of the Hirbawi family. Through the power of social media and a surge of international solidarity, their story gained widespread attention. Supporters from around the world rallied to preserve the heritage of the authentic Palestinian keffiyeh, leading to a remarkable resurgence in demand. Online sales and media coverage brought new life to the factory, enabling it to gradually expand operations.
Today, eight machines hum steadily in the factory, producing more than 25,000 keffiyehs annually. Each scarf woven at Hirbawi carries with it a story of endurance and pride, serving as a reminder of Palestine’s cultural identity and the family’s unwavering commitment to preserving it.
While imported replicas may flood the market, the Hirbawi keffiyeh remains an enduring symbol — a testament to the resilience of both the factory and the people it represents.
