AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
From traditional fishing and diving to handicrafts, young Emiratis are continuing to explore skills passed down through generations, highlighting the importance of preserving the UAE’s cultural heritage and ensuring traditional knowledge remains relevant for future generations.
For Mohammed Al Hosani, that connection to the nation's maritime legacy is personal. He learned traditional fishing from his father.
"My father taught me the fundamentals of fishing and introduced me to the sea. It wasn't just about learning a new skill; it was also about strengthening my bond with my father and understanding an important part of our Emirati culture," he said.
For many coastal communities in the UAE, fishing was a vital source of income, with knowledge and skills traditionally passed down through hands-on experience.
According to Al Hosani, learning directly from seasoned fishermen remains crucial to preserving these skills.
“Traditional fishing cannot be fully understood through books alone because it requires practical knowledge. Young people should spend time with experienced fishermen and learn from their expertise and experiences.”
Similarly, Zayed Al Braiki, developed an appreciation for another tradition closely linked to the UAE’s history after learning traditional diving from his uncles.
Before the discovery of oil, coastal communities relied heavily on pearl diving, which required endurance, patience, and a deep understanding of the marine environment.
"My uncles taught me how to dive by sharing their expertise and experiences with me. Hearing their stories about the sea helped me understand the challenges our ancestors faced and appreciate their resilience and strength,” Al Braiki said.
He believes this maritime heritage can be preserved by giving younger generations opportunities to learn from experienced divers.
“It is difficult to fully understand traditional skills without firsthand guidance from those who have practised them. By bringing young people together with experienced divers, we can help preserve these stories and ensure the knowledge is passed on."
Beyond the UAE’s maritime traditions, Fakhra Al Hosani is drawn to traditional Emirati handicrafts, such as khoos weaving and talli embroidery, which reflect the creativity and craftsmanship of earlier generations.
“These crafts showcase the creativity of Emirati women throughout history and form an important part of our cultural identity. They are not just traditional skills, but art forms that should be preserved and padded on,” she said.
According to Al Hosani, introducing traditional crafts through hands-on workshops and contemporary designs could help spark greater interest among young people.
“Traditional handicrafts require time, patience and practices. These crafts can be preserved by giving young people the chance to learn the techniques firsthand while exploring designs that appeal to modern tastes,” she said.