Al-Ahsa Bisht Festival: Celebrating UNESCO and reviving the women's duffel
In an exceptional cultural event blending historical significance with the pride of global achievement, the third edition of the Al-Ahsa Bisht Festival was launched in Al-Ahsa Governorate, marking a milestone in the preservation of Saudi heritage. This edition gains added importance as it coincides with the major national achievement of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's success in officially registering the "bisht" (traditional men's cloak) on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Cultural equation in Ibrahim Palace
The director of the Heritage Commission branch in Al-Ahsa, Mohammed Al-Matroudi, affirmed that this year's festival represents a pivotal historical milestone, as this heritage has transformed from a mere local traditional craft into a celebrated global human heritage. The festival has successfully forged a rare and ingenious cultural equation, linking the "tangible heritage" embodied by the festival's location at the heart of the historic Ibrahim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with the "intangible heritage" represented by the skills of bisht weaving. Both are now united under the umbrella of UNESCO, thus reinforcing Al-Ahsa's position as one of the most important centers of world heritage.
The return of the "female helm" after 60 years
In a remarkable move to revive a bygone era of traditional dress, Al-Matroudi announced the festival's success in bringing back the "women's cloak," known as the "daffa." The daffa is a traditional abaya that was once prevalent in Al-Ahsa but disappeared some sixty years ago. Today, it returns as a living testament to the rich heritage of women's fashion in the region. This "revival" of the lost garment was achieved through a meticulous documentation project and a strategic partnership with the King Abdulaziz Foundation, in collaboration with the Eastern Province Antiquities Society and the Al-Ahsa Girls' Association. Rare daffa pieces, showcasing their authentic designs, are now on display for visitors, documenting an important period in the history of Saudi dress.
Immersive technology and a new generation of craftsmen
The festival didn't stop at the traditional display; it went further, incorporating modern technology through an "immersive experience" that skillfully blends digital technology with gold zari threads. This allows visitors to virtually and tactilely delve into the intricate details of bisht making. To ensure the sustainability of this craft, the Authority dedicated a "Little Master" corner, offering children intensive heritage lessons through shadow puppetry and hands-on training. This ensures the transmission of national identity and the skills of fine weaving to future generations, protecting them from extinction.
After international and royal patronage
This year's events were imbued with an international identity, featuring the participation of six sister and friendly nations. This transformed the courtyards of Ibrahim Palace into a platform for cultural dialogue, highlighting shared human values in traditional crafts and placing the Saudi bisht (cloak) in its rightful place on the world stage. The event was generously sponsored by His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Eastern Province, and graced by the presence of his deputy and the Governor of Al-Ahsa, reflecting the wise leadership's support for cultural heritage initiatives.
The skies above Al-Ahsa were illuminated during the opening ceremony with drone displays that created dazzling light shows reflecting the values of pride and heritage. The festival continues to welcome visitors daily from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM, promising a comprehensive family experience that engages the senses and instills the values of tradition.
