2025: The year of the makers 
Every now and then, I find my dad glued to some show on TV, usually on one of the Discovery or History channels. He’ll be watching ordinary people morph into master blacksmiths, crafting swords or knives, and so on. The raw materials transform into stunning and practical items as sparks fly and muscles strain. It’s captivating, and it strikes you — this craftsmanship, this creativity, is age-old. People were extracting stones to create tools long before they erected the pyramids! They shaped clay into pots, wove fibers into textiles, and carved wood into detailed designs — all accomplished solely with their hands and unwavering determination.
Skip forward a couple of millennia, and we find ourselves amidst incredible technological advancements. We have devices that respond to us, autonomous vehicles, and computers that can surpass us in chess. But what about traditional crafts? These persist and maintain their value, and why shouldn’t they?
There is something unique about possessing an item created by human hands, infused with a narrative. A meticulously hand-stitched tapestry, a beautifully carved wooden bowl, or a piece of jewelry shaped in intense heat — these are not merely objects; they represent dedication, time, and artistry. Honestly, I would give anything to learn how to make even a simple spoon!
In relation to crafts, have you heard the latest? Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has proclaimed 2025 to be the “Year of Handicrafts.” Now that is something to celebrate! It honors our traditions and pays tribute to those who transformed necessity into artistry. This acknowledgment underscores that, despite the dominance of mass production and digital technology, distinctive and meaningful handmade items continue to hold a valued place in our world. It also serves as recognition for the talented artisans among us today. For far too long, people have overlooked the arts, viewing them as mere pastimes rather than legitimate careers, but this is beginning to change. The last ten years have witnessed a creative revival, and it is about time we acknowledged these individuals properly.
Our craftsmen definitely deserve this recognition. They are the visionaries and the achievers, responsible for infusing beauty and significance into our lives.
I have seen this shift firsthand, particularly in my line of work. Clients are seeking distinctive, handmade gifts that reflect our culture. They seek items that resonate emotionally and embody Saudi Arabia’s spirit. A few years ago, a dear friend shared an intriguing term with me — “lifestyle item.” This refers to things that hold cultural value while also being functional for daily use. Examples include a finely embroidered laptop bag, a traditional thermos bottle made with modern metals, or a piece of calligraphy cloth for your earbuds or car keys. These are considered lifestyle items, and demand for them is on the rise. The true beauty emerges when tradition combines with innovation. We can see this in fashion, home decor and art. The opportunities are limitless.
Our craftsmen definitely deserve this recognition. They are the visionaries and the achievers, responsible for infusing beauty and significance into our lives. They invest their passion and dedication into their work, preserving time-honored practices while also challenging limits and seeking fresh opportunities. We should applaud them not only next year, but annually. It’s essential to acknowledge their impact on our culture, economy, and overall welfare.
Let’s turn this into a movement for all of our innovators. Whether you are an individual or part of a corporation, let’s promote Saudi craftsmanship internationally. We need to highlight the remarkable talent and creativity found within our country. Every public relations team and organization representing us abroad should adopt a singular motto: “Crafted by Saudis.” Let’s establish it as a hallmark of excellence and a source of pride. The upcoming year promises to be significant for our craftspeople. We need to ensure that we approach it properly.
We must avoid producing inferior imitations and mass-manufactured items. Let us prioritize authenticity and genuineness. By supporting the artisans directly, we can recognize the skill and dedication involved in every creation and offer a reasonable price for their labor. It is important to foster this emerging sector, guaranteeing its prosperity for future generations.
Those without artistic talent, including myself, should find inspiration from skilled craftsmen. Venture beyond your usual boundaries, welcome uncertainty, and look for new experiences. Life is not merely about playing it safe; it involves making an impact on the world. Find a cause that ignites your passion and serves others and pursue it with determination. This is how you create a lasting legacy and truly make a difference.
Cheers to the “Year of Handicrafts,” a time dedicated to honoring creativity, tradition and the essence of humanity. Instead of clinking glasses and raising a toast, let’s express our pride through genuine applause for our skilled artisans. Let’s demonstrate to the world the elegance and innovation that emerge from Saudi craftsmanship. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember, showcasing and illuminating artistry like never before.
• Abdulelah S. Al-Nahari is a business and MarCom partner at a marketing solutions firm and leads strategic growth initiatives in line with Saudi Arabia’s digital-first vision. He has multi-sector awareness, strategic digital foresight and a range of industry experience.
