IN-PERSON: Prague – Section A

Abstract

This paper offers an overview of the history of Sadu, the traditional Bedouin weaving – as a craft, in Saudi Arabia and the surrounding Gulf region. In the context of globalisation, with mass production and rapid development, traditional crafts have been significantly threatened, and in many cases, they have become extinct from their original practices and forms. The migration of Bedouin communities from their natural habitus of the desert and its lifestyle, to the urban metropolises has changed the fabric of their social order, as well as their practice of Sadu weaving. This paper suggests that a once thriving traditional industry has now heavily deteriorated in Saudi Arabia, as a consequence of these changes. It also aims to highlight the importance and value of Sadu, the traditional weaving craft of the Bedouin peoples, to the cultural heritage of the gulf countries. It draws attention to the remarkable role of women, historically, in making this industry flourish. In presenting a qualitative research account of the case study of Bedouin weaving in Saudi Arabia, this paper seeks to showcase the efforts made in recent years to revive and sustain this important intangible cultural heritage. These efforts are an attempt to diversify the economy to provide a source of income to some of the population; against the forces of globalisation. The aim is for the master women-weavers of the Bedouin peoples to pass on their craft to the younger generations of women, to make Sadu weaving a traditional economy once again.