Al Khous (also al-khous, the palm-frond weaving craft)
The weaving of dried date palm fronds into baskets, mats, fans, and food coverings, one of the oldest human crafts practiced in Qatar and directly documented by the country's own official tourism authority as an industry that has almost entirely ceased to exist today. Al Khous production follows a meticulous harvesting and cleaning process, after which palm fronds are divided into thin strips suitable for weaving; the craft is entirely dependent on palm leaves specifically secured from different areas around the Gulf region, reflecting a documented cross-border material-sourcing pattern. Historically essential before the availability of modern packaging and storage, al khous items -- baskets, mats, fans, and food coverings -- were once central to traditional Qatari households. The craft remains showcased today at the Katara Traditional Dhow Festival, held annually at the Cultural Village Foundation's beach, alongside other maritime and heritage handicrafts including gypsum decoration, fishing nets, and pottery, and finished pieces can occasionally still be found at Souq Waqif's Antiques and Handicrafts section.
Risk level: Critically Endangered · Not independently inscribed
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