Sharjah Institute for Heritage celebrates women artisans

Celebrating women’s cultural contributions

The initiative aims to showcase the pivotal role of women in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage and passing down traditional craftsmanship through generations. It also seeks to strengthen national identity and ensure the sustainability of heritage industries.

Hind Al Awani, Director of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage – Dibba Al Hisn branch, said that “Naqshat Al Noon” reflects the institute’s commitment to empowering women culturally and socially, while highlighting their leading contribution to preserving crafts and heritage. She added that such initiatives help showcase the skills of female artisans and instil a sense of belonging and pride in national identity among younger generations.

Interactive workshops and creative programmes

The programme includes a variety of training workshops for women and children, featuring sessions on “Al Sadu” weaving, fabric dyeing, mirror decoration with pearls, and fabric cup-making. It also offers heritage competitions, traditional cooking classes, workshops on gypsum craft and facade decoration, along with an accompanying exhibition displaying traditional products created by participating craftswomen.

Dialogue sessions and women’s heritage stories

A special discussion titled “Women in the Memory of Heritage” will also take place, featuring researchers Fatima Al Matari and Fatima Al Mangoumi. The session will shed light on women’s experiences in traditional craftsmanship and their essential role in passing down cultural heritage to future generations.