ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
His Excellency Sheikh Khalifa bin Tahnoon bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Court, has visited the 10th edition of the Traditional Handicrafts Festival, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council.
Taking place at Al Ain's Souq Al Qattara until November 17, 2024, the festival showcases the work of skilled Emirati artisans as part of DCT Abu Dhabi’s mission to safeguard and promote Emirati craftsmanship and cultural heritage, while nurturing a vibrant cultural ecosystem.
His Excellency witnessed artisan craft demonstrations such as Al-Sadu, Talli, pottery, and traditional rope making, and toured the traditional souk showcasing the UAE's culture, heritage and practices, including handicrafts, medicinal herbs, falconry tools, Arabic coffee, culinary experience and traditional clothing.
The festival brings together artisans, educational institutions, government and third sector organisations dedicated to safeguarding Emirati heritage and organising a variety of cultural activities and workshops for the public. The festival highlights the importance of preserving and protecting Emirati cultural heritage and craftsmanship for present and future generations.
The festival offers a diverse array of traditional performing arts and handicrafts, traditional games for adults and children, heritage competitions and educational workshops for youth and take the visitors through an authentic Emirati culinary experience.
A celebration of UAE National identity and culture, the event collaborates closely with families in the handicrafts industry, offering support for them to meet the demands of the modern consumer market. It also aims to facilitate new career opportunities for these artisans, providing the tools and resources necessary for them to innovate their business models and expand their range of products.
The festival is open free of charge from 9am to 1pm for school and university students, and from 4pm to 11pm for the public.