ABU DHABI // Traditional Emirati arts and crafts will be showcased at an Al Ain heritage festival later this year.
Organised by the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority (TCA), the National Traditional Handicrafts Festival features a souq, folk dancing and music among many other activities.
“Craftsmanship was a major source of income for our forefathers and is deep rooted in our heritage,” said Nasser Ali Al Hamairi, director of TCA Abu Dhabi’s Intangible Heritage Department. “It reflected the very essence of the social values at the time and the deep bond between local people and their surrounding environment.”
With the festival taking at the historic Souq Al Qattara from October 23 to 29, visitors can try their hand at a craftsmanship competition, learn how traditional food is prepared and brew themselves a cup of Arabic coffee. There will also be live performances of Al Harbiyah, Al Ayyalah, Rebaba music and the Al Shillah and Al Yola dances.
Mr Al Hamairi said the festival aimed to highlight craftsmanship in Emirati heritage to keep these traditions alive.
To do so, the festival will feature workshops led by experts in the production and promotion of handicrafts. TCA Abu Dhabi will also conduct research into the number and geographical spread of traditional handicraft producers.
nhanif@thenational.ae
