The Depository · Browse · Middle East
The Depository documents 11 techniques in Kuwait; by risk level: 1 critically endangered, 3 endangered, 4 vulnerable, 1 stable, 1 thriving. Each record opens with a public summary; the full research record is free to view once registered.
The weaving and tailoring of the bisht, a traditional men's cloak worn across the Arab world, in continuing high demand across Kuwaiti society and the wider Gulf.
The hand-spinning and weaving of Al-Sadu, geometric Bedouin textiles, by Kuwaiti women of tribal background, formally recognized by UNESCO as part of the shared Saudi Arabian and Kuwaiti Al-Sadu inscription (2020, documented separately in…
The hand-weaving of date palm fronds into baskets, mats, and other household items, a traditional Kuwaiti craft known as saf alkhos, directly testifying to the creativity and resourcefulness of Kuwaiti culture.
The hand-construction of traditional wooden dhows -- collectively called boom -- by the Al-Qallaf family and other shipwrights recognized by this hereditary craft surname (qallaleef), sustained today at the workshop of Diwaniyat…
The free-diving harvesting of natural pearls across the Arabian Gulf, a foundational element of Kuwait's pre-oil economy for thousands of years, with pearl finds documented in Kuwait dating back some seven thousand years.
The practice of Arabic calligraphy (khatt) in Kuwait, a revered art form directly showcasing the beauty of Arabic script and highly skilled in creating intricate designs that adorn mosques, government buildings, and public spaces.
A contemporary art and design practice reinterpreting the rich weaving traditions of the Arabian Gulf, developed by Kuwaiti artist and designer Manal AlMaimouni, who directly revitalizes Bedouin textile techniques for modern audiences…
All miscellaneous & heritage-adjacent craft techniques worldwide →
The hand-forming and glazing of pottery and ceramics in Kuwait, a craft with deep historical roots documented through archaeological research at the al-Qusur monastery site on Failaka Island, excavated by the French-Kuwaiti Archaeological…
The preparation of machboos, widely touted as Kuwait's national dish, a flavorful specialty layering long-grain basmati rice with mutton or chicken, submerged in an orchestra of spices including cardamom, cinnamon, turmeric, cloves,…
The crafting of gold and silver jewelry known as Syaqah, a long-established trade among Kuwaiti women, historically practiced and passed down as a family-based craft and business.
The construction and gold-and-silver-thread embroidery of the dara'a, the traditional long-sleeved, loose, floor-length dress worn by Kuwaiti women, embroidered using handmade zari, silk thread covered in gold, or zari hurr, thread covered…