Khoos Initiative revives Saudi palm weaving through innovation
Ithra launches cultural program in Al-Ahsa blending heritage and modern creativity, positioning traditional craft as global art and design platform
ALKHOBAR, Saudi Arabia (MNTV) — The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) has unveiled the Khoos Initiative, an ambitious cultural program designed to preserve and transform Saudi Arabia’s centuries-old craft of palm weaving into a driver of global creativity and innovation.
Rooted in Al-Ahsa, home to the world’s largest date palm oasis and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the initiative reimagines palm weaving—known locally as khoos—by bridging tradition with contemporary applications in art, fashion, design, and architecture.
“Khoos is not only about preservation but about evolving heritage into a space where tradition meets innovation,” said Ala’a Al-Qahtani, creative programs specialist at Ithra.
Arab News reported that he explained artisans are working alongside international designers and architects to push palm weaving beyond its functional origins while safeguarding its authenticity.
Al-Ahsa’s historical significance as the heart of palm weaving in the Kingdom is central to the initiative, with Ithra positioning the region as both a hub for cultural dialogue and a platform for global exchange.
The program balances authenticity and innovation by pairing traditional craftspeople with young creatives through residencies, signature commissions, and collaborative projects.
This exchange ensures that generational knowledge is preserved while opening new pathways for experimentation and cultural diplomacy.
Highlighting the initiative’s alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, Al-Qahtani noted that palm weaving is now part of the Kingdom’s creative economy and international cultural outreach.
Women artisans, who have traditionally carried the craft, remain at its core, while youth participation injects fresh perspectives into its future.
Running until March 2026, the Khoos Initiative includes “Baseqat: The Palm Tree Exhibition” at Ithra and showcases Saudi palm weaving internationally at UNESCO’s MONDIACULT 2025 in Barcelona and the ICOM General Conference in Dubai.
“The real success is seeing a craft once rooted in oases now celebrated on the world stage,” Al-Qahtani said.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
