In a historic step that cements Al-Ahsa's status as a capital of heritage and culture, the third edition of the "Al-Ahsa Bisht Festival" was launched in the heart of the historic Ibrahim Palace, transforming from a local event into a global celebration with profound cultural dimensions. Mohammed Al-Matroudi, Director of the Heritage Commission branch in Al-Ahsa, emphasized that this edition marks a significant milestone, coinciding with the major national achievement of inscribing the "Al-Ahsa Bisht" on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, thus elevating this intricate craft from a local heritage to a global human heritage.
Historical background and cultural significance of the Al-Ahsa bisht
The bisht, or cloak, has been a symbol of authenticity and prestige in Arab and Gulf culture throughout the ages. It is a luxurious men's cloak worn over the thobe on important formal and social occasions, and is closely associated with horsemanship, generosity, and leadership. Al-Ahsa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Creative City of Crafts and Folk Arts, is renowned for its exquisite handcrafted bishts. The "Al-Ahsa bisht" is distinguished by its meticulous weaving, high-quality materials, and the gold or silver zari threads skillfully embroidered by hand, a craft passed down through generations. This rich heritage of craftsmanship is what earned it international recognition from UNESCO.
The impact of international recognition and the revival of "female leadership"
The inclusion of the bisht on the UNESCO list is not only a tribute to the past but also an investment in the future. This recognition enhances global awareness of the importance of Saudi handicrafts, opens new economic horizons for local artisans, and encourages younger generations to learn this craft and preserve it from extinction. In this context, Al-Matroudi revealed that the festival achieved another remarkable milestone: the revival of the “women’s cloak,” a traditional abaya worn by women in Al-Ahsa that disappeared nearly sixty years ago. This heritage garment was brought back to life through a meticulous documentation project in collaboration with the King Abdulaziz Foundation and local associations, allowing the “cloak” to once again stand as a living testament to the rich history and elegance of women’s fashion in the region.
Innovative events and international participation
The festival went beyond traditional displays, offering a comprehensive cultural experience. Al-Matroudi highlighted the adoption of an "immersive experience" approach that blends digital technologies with the aesthetics of the craft, allowing visitors to interact with the various stages of bisht making in an innovative way. The events also gained an international dimension with the participation of six countries, transforming the courtyards of Ibrahim Palace into a platform for cultural dialogue and the exchange of craft expertise. To ensure the continuity of this heritage, a "Little Master" corner was dedicated to teaching children the fundamentals of heritage through workshops and interactive stories, instilling a sense of national identity within them.
This cultural event was held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Eastern Province, and was graced by the presence of his deputy and a number of senior officials, reflecting the strong official support for heritage initiatives. The opening ceremony featured dazzling drone displays that painted the skies above Al-Ahsa with light displays depicting the story of the bisht (a traditional men's cloak) and its significance as a symbol of pride and authentic Saudi hospitality.
