AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
One of the most important cultural gatherings in the United Arab Emirates is the Qasr Al Hosn Festival, which takes place in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.
The festival, set to be held on 25 January to 9 February 2025, highlights the various facets of Emirati heritage and its rich history.
The Qasr Al Hosn Festival is one of the most significant cultural events in the United Arab Emirates because of the government's strong commitment to promoting and conserving heritage.
It also shows a strong commitment to revitalising the arts and crafts that capture the essence of Emirati culture and spirit.
Among the many events staged at the festival are some that showcase traditional handicrafts including Sadu weaving, which is regarded as one of the most important and respected crafts and is an essential feature of Emirati culture.
"These crafts are revived for future generations through live workshops for visitors," remarked Um Ibrahim, one of the artisan members of the House of Skills at Qasr Al Hosn. "In order to demonstrate our abilities and educate others about this age-old craft, its background, and the creativity and artistic expression required for this line of work, we also take part in a number of festivals, such as the Qasr Al Hosn Festival."
"Sadu weaving is among the oldest handicrafts the United Arab Emirates has known," she added. "Sadu, a fabric woven from sheep's wool, was used by Bedouins in the desert to make blankets, tents and clothes.
"The spindle and shuttle, two traditional pieces of equipment, are used to hand-weave the wool."
Um Ali, one of the artists at the Qasr Al Hosn Festival, added: "This heritage has evolved, and now we create items like women's and men's handbags to help preserve this craft for future generations.
"Additionally, we provide a range of goods with geometric designs and patterns that have significance for our neighbourhood.
Um Ibrahim said: "Our involvement in the Qasr Al Hosn Festival is one of the main ways this tradition is growing and spreading among Emiratis and tourists from other countries. It is our responsibility to spread awareness about this priceless culture.