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#traditional crafts

Traditional Arabic coffee pot (dallah) on a tray with cups
Culture

The Dallah: A Guide to the Gulf's Iconic Coffee Pot

Discover the history, design and cultural role of the dallah, the traditional Arabic coffee pot that symbolises hospitality across the Gulf.

A traditional kamal made of wood and string, held against the night sky.
Culture

The Kamal: Ancient Navigation Tool of Gulf Mariners

Discover the kamal, the simple yet ingenious navigation tool used by Gulf mariners for centuries to measure latitude at sea.

Handmade clay pots and jars typical of Gulf traditional pottery
Culture

Clay and Fire: The Enduring Craft of Traditional Gulf Pottery

From cooling water jars to ornate incense burners, pottery has been a cornerstone of Gulf daily life for centuries. Discover the techniques, forms, and cultural significance of this timeless craft.

An ornate wooden chest with brass studs and metal geometric patterns, typical of the Arabian Gulf
Culture

Al-Mandoos: The Gulf's Ornate Wedding Chest and Its Timeless Craft

Al-Mandoos, the traditional Gulf wooden chest, has carried bridal trousseaus and family treasures for generations, blending utility with rich artistry.

Close-up of Talli embroidery with gold-coloured metallic thread on fabric
Culture

Talli: The Art of Gulf Metallic Thread Embroidery

Talli is a traditional form of embroidery from the United Arab Emirates, known for its intricate metallic threadwork that adorns women's clothing, particularly the necklines and cuffs of dresses. This craft, passed down through generations, remains a vibrant part of Gulf heritage.

Traditional wooden dhow used for pearl diving in the Arabian Gulf
Culture

A Deep Dive into the Gulf's Pearl Diving Heritage

Before oil, pearls were the Gulf's most precious export. Discover how this demanding tradition shaped the region's identity and where its legacy lives on today.

A cluster of ripe dates hanging from a date palm tree in a sunlit oasis
Culture

The Date Palm: The Gulf's Tree of Life

From shade in the oasis to the sweet heart of hospitality, the date palm has shaped Gulf culture for centuries. Discover its traditions, uses and enduring role.