Key Points

The Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council is making its debut at ADIHEX 2025 with a fresh take on traditional Emirati crafts. Director-General Reem BinKaram emphasizes how hunting and equestrian sports are deeply woven into the national identity. The council focuses on empowering over 840 artisans by blending heritage with modern design. This initiative aims to bring Emirati craftsmanship to both local and international markets.

Key Points: Irthi Showcases Emirati Heritage Crafts at ADIHEX 2025

  • Features traditional crafts reimagined through innovative modern designs
  • Highlights Emirati heritage linked to hunting and equestrian sports
  • Empowers over 840 artisans through skills development programs
  • Aims to elevate local craftsmanship onto the global stage
2 min read

'Irthi' showcases handicrafts with contemporary spirit at ADIHEX

Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council presents traditional Emirati handicrafts with a modern twist at the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition.

"Showcase Emirati heritage and handicrafts in a contemporary spirit - Reem BinKaram"

Abu Dhabi, August 31

The Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council is presenting Emirati heritage and traditional handicrafts in a modern creative style at the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) 2025, held at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi until September 7.

The Council's participation in this prominent cultural and heritage event reflects its commitment to reimagining traditional crafts through innovative designs that meet the aspirations of the community, align with the UAE's national identity, and elevate local craftsmanship onto the global stage.

Reem BinKaram, Director-General of Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, highlighted the importance of the Council's first participation in the exhibition, noting that hunting and equestrian sports form an integral part of the Emirati heritage and identity.

In statements to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), she said the participation is in line with Irthi's vision of expanding the reach of crafts in both local and international markets. The aim, she added, is to showcase Emirati heritage and handicrafts in a contemporary spirit while spotlighting artisans and their creativity in transforming traditions into products that speak to new generations.

She further emphasised the role of Emirati craftswomen as key partners in safeguarding heritage and contributing to building a diversified and sustainable economy.

BinKaram also noted that the Council is a pioneering institution working to preserve and enhance traditional crafts by blending them with modern design. The Council focuses on empowering craftswomen through training and skills development across the UAE, the wider Middle East, North Africa, and Asia, and today boasts a network of more than 840 artisans. (ANI/ WAM)

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
UAE is doing amazing work preserving their heritage while making it relevant for today's generation. India has so much craft diversity - from Kashmiri papier-mâché to Madhubani paintings. Hope our government takes notes!
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Aditya G
While this is impressive, I wish they'd mentioned if they're collaborating with artisans from other countries too. Cultural exchange in crafts can create amazing fusion art! 🤝
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Sarah B
Love how they're focusing on women artisans! In India, so many women in rural areas are incredible craftswomen but don't get proper platforms or fair prices for their work.
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Karthik V
The UAE model of heritage preservation is something we should study. They manage to balance tradition with modernity so well. Our khadi and handloom sectors could learn from this approach.
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Nisha Z
️ 840 artisans in their network! That's what proper funding and vision can achieve. Hope our handicraft boards can create similar ecosystems for Indian artisans. The potential is huge!

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