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
Our crafts,our identity.
Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council carries Emirati heritage into the present — pairing master craftswomen with designers to create work for a global stage.
Our traditional crafts are the legacy bequeathed to us by our ancestors. It is our duty to protect and preserve them for the generations to come.
Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi · Founder of Irthi
01 — Our crafts
Five crafts, one living heritage
01
Al Talli التلي
Braided trim woven with metallic threads — traditionally edging the cuffs and necklines of Emirati dress.
02
Safeefa
Palm-frond weaving, shaped into baskets, mats and furniture.
03
Sadu
Bedouin loom weaving in bold geometric bands.
04
Al Furokha
Hand-braided cords and tassels.
05
Embroidery
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.