- Safeguarding Programme for Al Sadu, Traditional Weaving Skills in the United Arab Emirates
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Safeguarding Programme for Al Sadu, Traditional Weaving Skills in the United Arab Emirates
The safeguarding programme for Al Sadu in the United Arab Emirates was created to protect traditional Bedouin weaving skills from decline. Social and economic changes, including the movement of Bedouin communities to cities, the decline of pastoral life, the spread of industrial fabrics, and the limited income from handmade production, reduced interest in learning this craft among younger generations.
Between 2011 and 2023, a wide safeguarding effort supported research, documentation, awareness-raising, training, marketing, and the transmission of knowledge from older women who preserved the tradition. Through cooperation among cultural institutions, communities, craftspeople, and other partners, the programme helped ensure the continuity of Al Sadu weaving.
It also created new employment and income opportunities, while strengthening appreciation for this important element of Emirati cultural heritage.
Safeguarding Programme for Al Sadu, Traditional Weaving Skills in the United Arab Emirates was inscribed in 2025 on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in UAE.
Safeguarding Programme for Al Sadu, Traditional Weaving Skills in the United Arab Emirates
Date of Inscription
2025
- See also
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Al Aflaj, Traditional Irrigation Network System in the UAE, Oral Traditions, Knowledge and Skills of Construction, Maintenance and Equitable Water Distribution Al Ahalla, a Living Performing Art in the United Arab Emirates Al Azi, Art of Performing Praise, Pride and Fortitude Poetry Al Sadu, Traditional Weaving Skills in the United Arab Emirates Al Talli, Traditional Embroidery Skills in the United Arab Emirates Al-Ayyala, a Traditional Performing Art of the Sultanate of Oman and the United Arab Emirates Al-Razfa, a Traditional Performing Art Al-Taghrooda, Traditional Bedouin Chanted Poetry in the United Arab Emirates and the Sultanate of Oman Alheda’a, Oral Traditions of Calling Camel Flocks Arabic Calligraphy: Knowledge, Skills and Practices Arabic Coffee, a Symbol of Generosity Arabic Kohl Bisht (men’s Abaa): Skills and Practices Camel Racing, a Social Practice and a Festive Heritage Associated with Camels Date Palm, Knowledge, Skills, Traditions and Practices Falconry, a Living Human Heritage Harees dish: Know-How, Skills and Practices Henna: Rituals, Aesthetic and Social Practices Majlis, a Cultural and Social Space The Zaffa in the Traditional Wedding
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