Running until 9 February, the festival features over 450 workshops and talks covering arts, design, architecture, visual storytelling, and traditional crafts. The event supports the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy, ensuring a rich cultural experience for attendees. The festival’s sessions are led by industry experts and artists, offering valuable insights and practical training. Al Shindagha Museum, the UAE’s largest heritage museum, has been transformed into a dynamic hub for creativity.

Sikka Art & Design Festival : Hands-On Artistic Workshops

The festival offers workshops tailored to various creative disciplines. Emerging City is hosting Gypsum Art, where participants explore gypsum carving techniques. The Traditional Jewellery House presents Jewellery Making: Marriyah (Necklace), providing hands-on experience in crafting traditional ornaments.

Visitors at the People and Faith House can join Henna Stencil and Prayer Bead Crafting sessions. The Traditional Crafts House introduces Spindle, a workshop on hand-weaving using traditional tools.

At House 355 – Masterpieces, creativity takes center stage with Graffiti Art: Express Yourself with Spray Paint, where participants learn graffiti fundamentals from a professional artist. House 341 – Realiity House offers Doodles & AI, transforming simple sketches into digital art using artificial intelligence. The Glitch Art session explores creative distortions inspired by digital effects.

Workshops at House 314 by Sxill Lab include Handmade Tile Making and Cheese Board Design. Meanwhile, House 326 – Sikka Platform presents sustainability-focused sessions such as Sustainability Now: Eco-Friendly Solutions and Perfume Making for Adults. At House 15, Tashkeel hosts modern printing workshops like Hand Printing on Bags and Riso Printing.

Sikka Art & Design Festival : Music, Writing, and Storytelling

At House 196 – Urban House by The Workshop DXB, singer Shilpa Ananth leads Unlocking Authenticity: The Psychology of Songwriting. The session delves into emotional and experiential influences on songwriting, helping participants refine their music composition skills.

The Merin Pavilion hosts Letters to the City: Writing Public Spaces, where attendees reflect on meaningful locations in Dubai by writing personalized messages dedicated to them.

Inspiring Talks and Creative Discussions

The festival includes Sikka Speaks, a dedicated space featuring leading creatives discussing industry trends. Highlights include:

• Creative Minds: Art Therapy for Young Explorers – Art therapist Caline Boghos guides children through therapeutic practices and imaginative play.
• Immersive Magic: Where Art, Music, and Technology Transform Experiences – A panel featuring Anna Lebedeva, Jalal Luqman, Maryam Al Obeidli, Denis Rosiev, Evgenia Romanidi, and Nicholas Mann, moderated by Elias Attallah.
• Decoding Humour: The Art of Multicultural Comedy in Dubai – Featuring comedians Shadi Jad and Saniya Abbas, moderated by Liz Baines.
• Artistic Intervention in Satwa: Tracing Urban Nostalgia – A discussion led by Khalil Abdulwahid and Karim Jabbari.
• Go Global! International Opportunities & Strategies for Dubai-Based Artists – Moderated by Sophie Mayuko, featuring Sanaz Askari, Giuseppe Moscatello, and Behrang Samadzadkan.

A Collaborative Effort

The festival is organized in partnership with Dubai Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Police, Dubai Civil Defence, and the Emirates Council for Rural Development. This collaborative effort ensures a world-class platform for artists, designers, and cultural enthusiasts.

With an extensive lineup of workshops, talks, and exhibitions, Sikka Art & Design Festival 2025 continues to establish Dubai as a leading creative and cultural hub.

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Weaving: The Art of Al-Sadu

The Tradition

Al-Sadu is a traditional form of weaving practiced by Bedouin women in the UAE. This intricate craft involves creating geometric patterns on fabric using wool and cotton. Historically, Al-Sadu was essential for making tents, rugs, and clothing, reflecting the nomadic lifestyle of the Bedouins.

Keeping the Tradition Alive

Modern artisans are reviving Al-Sadu by incorporating its designs into contemporary fashion and home décor. Workshops and cultural programs, often supported by organizations like the UAE’s Ministry of Culture, are helping to preserve this art form. These initiatives not only teach the traditional techniques but also encourage innovation to make Al-Sadu relevant in today’s market.

Pottery: The Craft of Al-Fukhari

The Tradition

Pottery in the UAE dates back thousands of years, with Al-Fukhari being one of the most enduring forms. Traditionally, Emirati potters created functional items such as water jugs, storage jars, and cooking pots using locally sourced clay. These items were often decorated with simple, yet elegant, geometric patterns.

Keeping the Tradition Alive

Today, Emirati potters are blending ancient techniques with modern aesthetics. Artisans are creating pieces that serve both functional and decorative purposes, often showcased in galleries and cultural festivals. Educational programs and pottery studios are also instrumental in teaching the younger generation the skills needed to continue this ancient craft.

Jewelry Making: The Art of Al-Sarm

The Tradition

Jewelry making, or Al-Sarm, has been a significant part of Emirati culture, symbolizing social status and wealth. Traditional Emirati jewelry is characterized by intricate designs and the use of precious metals and gemstones. Pieces such as bangles, necklaces, and rings often feature motifs inspired by nature and Islamic art.

Keeping the Tradition Alive

Artisans are preserving the legacy of Al-Sarm by creating jewelry that combines traditional designs with contemporary trends. Many designers are gaining international recognition for their work, which pays homage to Emirati heritage while appealing to modern tastes. Additionally, exhibitions and jewelry-making classes help sustain interest and skill in this traditional craft.

Supporting the traditional Emirati Artisans

Cultural Institutions and Initiatives

Numerous cultural institutions and initiatives in the UAE are dedicated to preserving traditional crafts. The Sharjah Institute for Heritage, for instance, plays a crucial role in documenting and promoting these art forms. Festivals like the Al Ain Cultural Festival provide platforms for artisans to showcase their work, fostering a greater appreciation for Emirati heritage.

The Role of Modern Technology

Technology is also aiding in the preservation and evolution of traditional crafts. Digital platforms enable artisans to reach a global audience, while online tutorials and virtual workshops make learning these crafts more accessible. This blend of tradition and technology ensures that these ancient art forms can thrive in the modern world.

Conclusion

Traditional Emirati crafts like weaving, pottery, and jewelry making are vital aspects of the UAE’s cultural heritage. Through the dedication of modern artisans and the support of cultural institutions, these crafts continue to flourish. By embracing both tradition and innovation, the UAE is ensuring that its rich cultural legacy is preserved for future generations.

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One of the key focus areas of the G20 Summit is tourism, and the Tourism working group has convened in Srinagar to discuss ways to promote local and global tourism among G20 countries in alignment with the UN’s 2030 agenda for Sustainable Development. This presents a significant opportunity for India to not only highlight its industrial growth but also to showcase advancements in tourism, the promotion of locally made goods, and the preservation of cultural diversity.

Amidst this global gathering, Pashmina.com, a leading advocate of traditional crafts, has been selected to present the renowned Kani Pashmina Shawls to a worldwide audience. The company is proud to be part of the esteemed G20 meeting and aims to captivate the global audience with the exquisite artistry of Kani weaving. Varun Kumar, Founder of Pashmina.com, expresses his excitement, stating, “This unique opportunity strengthens our dedication to safeguarding and promoting traditional craftsmanship as we are honored to showcase the exquisiteness and intricacy of Kani weaving to a worldwide audience.”

Kani, a handwoven textile originating from the picturesque valley of Kashmir in India, is renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship and breathtaking designs. Skilled artisans use traditional wooden looms to create vibrant patterns, incorporating delicate motifs and vibrant colors into Kani shawls. The process of handcrafting a Kani Pashmina shawl takes several years to complete and requires extraordinary skill and precision, resulting in highly sought-after works of art.

During the G20 summit, Pashmina.com will present a stunning showcase of its finest Kani Pashmina shawls, featuring a diverse range of exquisitely handcrafted pieces. Each item in the collection harmoniously blends traditional and contemporary designs, appealing to both classic and modern sensibilities. The exhibition serves as a testament to the timeless elegance and allure of Kani weaving.

Pashmina.com prides itself on sourcing the finest materials to ensure that every piece reflects the unparalleled beauty and superior craftsmanship synonymous with Kani shawl making. Varun emphasizes the company’s commitment to cross-cultural dialogue and elevating the art of Pashmina on a global scale, stating, “By displaying Kani Pashmina shawls in front of world leaders, we aim to raise awareness about the phenomenal craftsmanship and cultural significance of this treasured art form. By fostering appreciation and acclaim, we hope to encourage the continuous preservation and appreciation of traditional art and craft.”

Pashmina.com is on a mission to revive the art of Pashmina and establish it as the most sought-after accessory in every fashion connoisseur’s wardrobe. Through their participation in the G20 summit, they aspire to showcase the legacy and beauty of Kani weaving, fostering a deep appreciation for traditional artistry and cultural heritage worldwide.

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One of the rooms in the Talli House features artist Sara Alkhayyal’s project, “Textile Tales – Talli Currency,” which documents the history of women in the UAE and their empowerment. Alkhayyal aimed to contemporize the traditional jalabiyah and inspire younger generations to take an interest in lesser-known cultural stories by combining textile patterns and motifs. The resulting Textile Tales – Talli Currency project showcases these designs and encourages people to learn more about their heritage. Alkhayyal’s project also inspired a limited-edition chocolate wrapper featuring Talli-inspired designs in collaboration with Mirzam.

Another artwork showcased at the Talli House is Hajer Altenaiji’s “Thoub Khediya,” a poignant tapestry design that commemorates her mother’s passing when she was young. The piece depicts her mother’s traditional Emirati thoub in heaven. Feryal Al Bastaki and Munira Almulla’s “The O-Collection – Sikka Edition” explores the fusion of contemporary furniture design with traditional crafts like Al Talli and Khoos, resulting in a stunning showcase of this amalgamation.

NAFS Culture commissioned artist Noora Taher to present “Van Gogh Thoub”: two dresses influenced by Vincent Van Gogh’s unique style and the Bu Tilla’s unmistakable dotted pattern. The project replaces the brush with Al Talli and the canvas with silk.

Visitors to the Talli House can attend interactive workshops and live artistic performances featuring Al Talli craftswomen. Dubai Culture aims to offer visitors a chance to learn about the intricate details of traditional Talli craft and production. This initiative aligns with Dubai Culture’s commitment to supporting the city’s cultural and creative industries as a key contributor to its thriving creative economy.

The 11th Sikka Art and Design Festival, Dubai Culture’s flagship event, highlights the importance of preserving and celebrating cultural heritage. The festival’s ongoing efforts to showcase local artists’ works and engage the community in the UAE’s rich cultural heritage highlight the government’s commitment to promoting creativity and cultural preservation. The Talli House’s artworks and workshops showcase the value of traditional crafts and inspire the younger generation to take an interest in their cultural heritage. The Talli House’s exhibitions and activities provide a unique opportunity to celebrate and preserve the UAE’s cultural heritage while promoting contemporary art and design.

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The event, which takes place every two years, is a tribute to artists from all over the world. The Biennial, which began on June 9 and will end on June 12, is one of the most influential of its kind. It will be held at the Temporary Grand Palais.

Revelations Ateliers d’Art de France, which represents 281 French fine crafts, is the brains behind the International Biennial of Crafts and Creation. Furthermore, the event’s platform gives significant economic assistance to the sector.

For instance, the UAE-based Gasah Studio, which is exhibiting its works, engages with local craftspeople “to construct a light item inspired by the architecture of fossil dune formations found in UAE settings.” Clay and Al Safeefa are both reworked to produce an organic light concept with a craft foundation.”

Then there’s Jawaher Al-khayyal, a product and interior designer who focuses on traditional workmanship and “tales from the past.” Her work is infused with a strong feeling of nostalgia, which she uses to create unique and compelling user experiences.

Finally, Ayesha Hadir of the United Arab Emirates, who is also attending the event, feels that oral history should be preserved. She defends the cause of the UAE’s traditional stories of struggles during the era of pearl diving and fishing, which served as the country’s sole source of income before it became prosperous.

“We imagined an event that would commemorate the strength and creative vitality of material artists around the world,” Aude Tahon, President of Ateliers d’Art de France and President of Révélations, said on the website. We wanted to go beyond craftsmanship, unveil current creation, and encourage tomorrow’s talents with this one-of-a-kind event. Material artists express a vision of society that makes decisions about its future, and they offer a different way of life: creating, passing on, and lasting!”

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Dubai Culture kicked off the event with a panel discussion on Emirati legacy, which featured researchers and cultural specialists in the presence of a number of authorized employees. This session brought together Emirati heritage researcher Al Laghsh and Emirati daggers and swords researcher Abdullah Al Matroushi, who discussed a variety of topics in the world of heritage, including the concepts and purposes of world heritage; Emirati heritage, and its connection to various social lifestyles, the centers and entities that incubate heritage in general; and heritage in the future, as well as modern media, also commonly known as new media in the post-presidential era.

The Authority’s celebration of World Heritage Day, according to AlAnood Ahmed Bin AlShaikh, Acting Director of Cultural and Heritage Programs Department at Dubai Culture, stems from the Authority’s belief in the importance of heritage as an integral part of local identity and culture, as well as a source of inspiration for younger generations to continue the country’s journey of excellence, adding: “At Dubai Culture, we seek to continuously preserve, celebrate, and disseminate Emirah culture.”

AlAnood Ahmed Bin AlShaikh went on to say: “The emirate’s lengthy history and rich heritage serve as a pillar against which its bright future can be measured.” By instilling these ideas in our children’s minds, we provide them with the opportunity to learn from them and develop a mindset that will serve as the foundation for their transition from a wealthy present to a brighter and more creative future. Dubai Culture prioritizes conserving Emirati legacy, and we make every effort to uphold the emirate’s cultural obligation of maintaining and honoring the emirate’s tangible and intangible cultural heritage. “

Following the panel discussion, a group of female Emirati craftsmen showcased traditional crafts as part of Dubai Culture’s mission to revive the ancestral industry and conserve traditional crafts from extinction. The evening came to a close with a tour of the Heritage Community Center, a learning center dedicated to Emirati cultural heritage in practice and preservation. The center offers illustrative characteristics that highlight a variety of craft expertise, as well as the possibility for interested students to participate in organized formal courses that focus on traditional craft skills.

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