The Sadu Craft Association announced that the World Crafts Council has designated Kuwait City as a "World City for the Craft of Sadu Weaving," in recognition of its outstanding contributions to preserving and promoting this traditional craft.
In a statement to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Thursday, the Chairperson of the Association, Sheikha Bibi Duaij Al-Sabah, explained that this designation followed an official visit by a delegation of experts from the World Crafts Council to assess Kuwait's commitment to preserving and developing the craft of Sadu.
Sheikha Bibi Al-Sabah noted that the delegation, led by the President of the World Crafts Council, Saad Al-Qadoumi, conducted field visits that included the Sadu House and several key cultural sites in the country. The delegation observed artisans practicing the traditional weaving craft and learned about Kuwait's efforts to sustain this art form. She added that the delegation met with representatives from government entities, cultural institutions, and local artisans to discuss ways to enhance the craft's global standing.
She emphasized that this recognition places Kuwait City on the global craft map and highlights the rich traditions of Sadu weaving. It also reflects Kuwait's steadfast commitment to preserving its craft heritage and "opens new horizons for promoting cultural tourism, supporting Kuwaiti artisans in accessing global markets, and engaging with the international craft community."
She added that Sadu is an integral part of Kuwaiti heritage, reflecting the country's history and culture through its geometric patterns and vibrant colors. She noted that Sadu has played a central role in the lives of the Bedouin people throughout history, used in tents, furnishings, and decorations, and remains to this day a symbol of national identity and artisanal excellence.
It is worth mentioning that Kuwait had previously applied to the World Crafts Council for the title of "World City for Craft" for Sadu weaving through the Sadu House, which is a member of the Council. This title is awarded to cities and regions that contribute to the preservation and sustainability of traditional crafts.
The World Crafts Council is a non-profit international organization founded in New York in 1964 and registered in Belgium. It is currently headquartered in Kuwait for the present presidential term. The organization specializes in protecting craft heritage across five geographical regions: North America, Latin America, Africa, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. It works on several important projects, most notably granting the title of "World City for Craft" to cities or regions that contribute to the preservation and development of traditional crafts.