04 — Programmes
Skills that travel across borders
The Council’s impact reaches far beyond the UAE — spanning the Middle East, North Africa, Southeast and Central Asia — through vocational training, community development and skills exchange.
Sharjah · Since the vision of H.H. Sheikha Jawaher
حِرفنا...هويتنا
Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council carries Emirati heritage into the present — pairing master craftswomen with designers to create work for a global stage.
إن حِرفنا التراثية هي الإرث الذي تركه لنا أجدادنا، ويتوجب علينا حمايتها والحفاظ عليها للأجيال القادمة
سمو الشيخة جواهر بنت محمد القاسمي، مؤسسة المجلس
01 — Our crafts
Five crafts, one living heritage
01
التلي
Braided trim woven with metallic threads — traditionally edging the cuffs and necklines of Emirati dress.
02
السفيفة
Palm-frond weaving, shaped into baskets, mats and furniture.
03
السدو
Bedouin loom weaving in bold geometric bands.
04
الفروخة
Hand-braided cords and tassels.
05
التطريز
Needlework patterns reimagined as contemporary objects.
02 — Irthi’s world
Stories waiting to be told
These are not simply objects from the past. They are the heritage passed down to us by our parents and grandparents, who lived on this land and shaped it through the ages.
Born from the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi and championed by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Irthi celebrates the creativity of Emirati women — equipping them to excel, lead and carry this legacy forward.
03 — Collections
Where craft meets design
Collaborations between Emirati artisans and international designers. View all collections
Explore programmes
05 — Community
Make, learn and create together
Workshops in weaving, natural dyeing, paper-making and braiding — open to the community.