The Women's Handicraft Centre in Abu Dhabi - in pictures
Women perform a traditional kind of embroidery known as talli for the Women’s Handicraft Centre in Abu Dhabi. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
Al Sadu is a traditional form of weaving practised by Bedouin communities in the UAE. The threads are twisted together using a wooden drop spindle. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
Silk threads are woven together to decorate clothing. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
Al Sadu involves the use of a wooden shuttle to create geometric patterns for clothing, tents, pillows and carpets. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
A weaving technique known as khoos, which involves braiding palm fronds, is a part of the UAE's ancestral heritage. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
Women practise the traditional techniques together during the week with hopes of selling some of their creations through the centre. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
From left, Mariam Al Kabi, Sameeha Ahmed Al Kabi, Nadia Al Shamsi and Ateeja Al Mherbi keep the traditions alive at the centre. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
Mariam Al Kabi has used the talli technique to embroider clothing since she was 10. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
The techniques have been passed down from mothers to daughters for generations. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
Sameeha Al Kabi says women can learn a wide variety of crafting techniques at the centre. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
The centre offers lessons to anyone interested in learning how to create items such as clothing and cushions using the techniques. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
Nadia Al Shamsi says the women at the centre will teach the crafting methods to the next generation. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
Talli was developed by Bedouin communities and is used to decorate clothing. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
The centre is run by the General Women’s Union, which is led by Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
Weaving and sewing is also a social activity, with the women sharing family news as they work. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
The women create items for their friends and family, as well as to earn money for themselves. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
