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, the tenth Traditional Handicrafts Festival, organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism — Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), will take place from 29 October to 17 November 2024, under the theme Ancestors' Crafts, Descendants' Pride.
The event at Al Ain's Souq Al Qattara will showcase 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 Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: “As we celebrate a decade of the Traditional Handicrafts Festival, we look to the future with a renewed commitment to safeguard and share the legacy of Emirati heritage and craftsmanship. More than just a celebration of artistry, the Traditional Handicrafts Festival embodies DCT Abu Dhabi's dedication to ensuring the living legacy of Emirati heritage. By supporting local artisans and showcasing their skills, the festival not only safeguards traditional crafts but also cultivates appreciation among present and future generations, ensuring the continuity of Emirati identity and contributing to Abu Dhabi's thriving culture and creative industries.”
The festival brings together traditional artisans, educational institutions, government and organisations dedicated to safeguarding Emirati heritage to host a variety of cultural activities and workshops for the public. The event highlights the importance of preserving and protecting Emirati cultural heritage and craftsmanship for present and future generations.
The festival will showcase an array of traditional performing arts and handicrafts, engaging games for adults and children, competitions, and educational heritage workshops for youth. A traditional market will offer distinctive items ranging from handicrafts and medicinal herbs to falconry tools, Arabic coffee, decorations, delicious Emirati cuisine, traditional clothing, and more. Visitors of all ages can look forward to a genuinely authentic and unforgettable experience that celebrates Emirati identity and culture. The event will also feature traditional performances, interactive workshops, and delicious Emirati cuisine.
The festival 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.
Through activities and programming that foster connections and cultural exchange, visitors can engage in meaningful conversations with artisans, participate in workshops, and purchase handcrafted pieces imbued with stories and traditions. Morning sessions will invite students to explore the traditional handicrafts of the UAE through guided tours, delving into the intricacies of Al-Sadu, Talli, pottery, traditional rope making.
Alongside the festival, the Al Qattara Arts Centre will celebrate Emirati women and their enduring legacy of craftsmanship through its Al Suwayea programme. Al Suwayea offers an opportunity to engage with the skills, techniques, and exquisite products crafted throughout centuries. The programme aims to create a platform for Emirati women of all ages to interact, share knowledge, and inspire future generations to carry forward these traditions.
Visitors can immerse themselves in Al Ain, the Pulse of Abu Dhabi, an exhibition showcasing artworks by UAE-based artists inspired by the buildings and venues of Al Ain city. The festival will feature also music concerts as part of the Memory of the Emirati Song series, featuring performances by Harbi Al Ameri, Aryam, and Hamad Al Ameri.
This Traditional Handicrafts Festival aims to promote traditional handicrafts and industries of the UAE by fostering appreciation among visitors, ensuring their preservation and documentation for future generations, and empowering artisans through support, product development, and market access.
The festival will be open from 9am-1pm for school and university students, and 4pm-11pm for the general public. Entry is free of charge.
