Al-Janbiya, also known as the dagger, is named so because it is affixed to the right or left side of a man's body using a belt made of fabric or leather that is tightly tied around the waist. This is the most common appearance, but it can also be affixed in the middle of the body.
Al-Janbiya is considered one of the cultural symbols of the south of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and is part of the traditional costumes. It is worn during folkloric dances, social events, and holidays. The tradition of wearing al-Janbiya dagger dates back to the eighth century BC. Despite the evolution of its craftsmanship over time, the primary distinction remains in the type of material from which the hilt and blade are made, which determines its value. The most expensive types of al-Janbiya have hilts made from the horns of rhinoceroses, followed in price by the horns of ibex, giraffes, and deer, down to the least expensive, which are made using cattle horns.
Some of the local names of daggers include Umm Tisa'a, Umm Fusus, al-Mishtaf, al-Darma, and al-Muka'ab. The engravings and decorations vary among them, and the handles of some are adorned with gold or silver.
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