Qatar Living had the chance to speak to Mohammed Alhammadi, the founder of Gahfia, a unique hat line that combines both Western and Arab features in its designs.

The founder

Alhammadi is a Qatari artist that designs hats. Following in his father’s footsteps, he courageously decided to take on the challenging life of an artist.

With time, using his skills in design, Alhammadi started making the hats he wore in university. He therefore ended up with a bunch of nameless designs, and eventually decided to give his side project the attention it deserved when he was requested to come up with a final project during his last year at university, where he studied Creative Media Technology.

Alhammadi’s goal through designing caps is to add to the Arab legacy, to spread awareness and to promote the Arab culture.

The brand and logo

Alhammadi wanted to come up with a name that was unique, simple, that people could remember – and pronounce. After doing his research and consulting with Arabic professors, Gahfia was born. According to Arabic literature, gahfia refers to anything that covers the head.

The logo went through many phases. He decided to stick with the Kufic calligraphy design. If you look closely at it, you will notice two letters, the Arabic “ق” and the English “G,” which stand for قحفية and gahfia.

The designs and product

Alhammadi’s designs, all created by him, are essentially related to the Arab culture. He gets his inspiration from both the Middle East and other Arab countries. This inspiration is then translated into calligraphy, colors, and designs. His designs range from having the Palestinian kufiya to camels on them.

What stands out about his designs is his ability to merge both Western and Arab features into his products. By doing so, his hats appeal to both cultures.

He also incorporates the feedback he gets into his designs, sometimes leading him to continue producing a design he is not necessarily satisfied with.

Despite popular demand, Alhammadi does not make custom-made designs. His goal is to focus on his brand and the message he wants to convey through it.

In terms for the physical hat itself, he takes into consideration factors such as heat, comfort and practicality when designing the hats. The backside of the hats is made out of mesh, making them lighter and more comfortable.

Closer look at the “Al Ad3am – الأدعم ” design: 
 The Pantone color used in this design is 222, representing the color of the Qatari flag. Initially, the design was made for the Middle East as a whole. However, after the Blockade, Alhammadi had no choice but to limit his design to Qatar. He took the Sado pattern (a triangular-shaped pattern, originally from Egypt) and added edges to it to give it a modern and recognizable look.

For girls

Here's a sneak peek for those of you that want something more soft and feminine. Coming soon!

Interested in getting your own Gahfia? You can contact Mohammed and follow Gahfia on Instagram.