Al Ain to host first National Traditional Handicrafts Festival

Taking place in the emirate’s heritage heartland, the festival – running October 23-29 at Souq al Qattara – will feature heritage activities and initiatives including a crafts souk with traditional products.

A complementary public programme will include a kids’ Al Yola dance contest, a craftsmanship competition, preparation of traditional dishes and the making of traditional Arabic coffee, as well as Al Harbiyah, Al Ayyalah, rebaba music, Al Shillah and Al Yola performances as well as workshops by handicrafts experts.

The festival will highlight the importance of traditional craftsmanship in Emirati heritage and support craftsmen’s efforts to preserve, revive, and transfer their skills to future generations.