Summer workshops in Saudi Arabia revive traditional crafts
More than 400 sessions at Zawiya 97 bring together artisans, families, and visitors to celebrate heritage
JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia (MNTV) — Jeddah’s historic Al-Balad district became a hub of creativity this summer as Zawiya 97 hosted over 400 workshops aimed at reviving traditional crafts and reconnecting the community with Saudi heritage.
Arab News reported that the initiative drew artisans, hobbyists, families, and newcomers eager to learn hands-on skills ranging from woodturning and tapestry weaving to natural perfume distillation and leatherwork.
Abdulrahman Al-Saati, director of Zawiya 97’s incubator program, said the workshops went beyond training.
“They became transformative experiences for both artisans and the community. Artisans gained exposure to diverse audiences, boosting their confidence and finding new market opportunities, while participants were inspired by the creativity and cultural depth of traditional crafts,” he explained.
The workshops, positioned in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aimed to present crafts not only as heritage but also as economic opportunities.
Artisan Azzam Al-Ghamdi, owner of Dar Azzam, introduced participants to aromatic plants such as Taif rose, teaching distillation techniques to extract essential oils.
“We want to spread the culture of natural fragrances more widely,” he said, crediting Zawiya 97’s founder, Ahmed Angawi, for inspiring his work.
Painter and artisan Dahlia Sulaiman described the hub as a space full of “positive energy,” noting she led four tapestry workshops with around 10 participants each.
Leather craftsman Ahmed Khaberi echoed the sentiment, highlighting how the space allows artisans to showcase not only products but the creative process itself.
For Fatmah Al-Aidarous, co-founder of Mansaj Studio, the historic setting of Al-Balad added richness to the experience.
“Since launching, we’ve hosted around 600 workshops with nearly 900 participants. Our goal is to preserve handicraft traditions while reintroducing them in contemporary ways,” she said.
Other sessions included woodturning classes led by the Woodturning Club founders, skincare workshops using natural ingredients by Sara Al-Johar, and candle-making sessions that gave participants confidence to start their own small businesses.
Participants such as Sarah Abu Bakr and Maha Al-Akeel praised the hands-on opportunities, from distilling rose oil to learning entrepreneurial skills through crafts.
By providing a platform for artisans and participants to collaborate and share skills, Zawiya 97 has reinforced the importance of cultural heritage while adapting it for modern audiences.
The workshops ensured that traditional crafts continue to thrive in Jeddah’s evolving creative landscape.
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