Thanks for the comments. They weren't in thobes, just dressed in what was clearly boys clothing including ball caps to swoop up the hair. Not just a tomboy thing, but Arab girls cross dressing and trying to pass as male. I googled 'boyat' and I think that fits.

I don't have a problem with it. Just curious as to why, if it is common, and how local respond. I just wondered if it is a rebellious sort of thing.