Saudi craftswomen await support

A number of local craftswomen have called on Saudi stakeholders to support and provide them with suitable workplaces to practice their crafts, which they assert is the main source of income for them and their families.
They described their experience in national and local festivals as positive and effective, as it provides them with an opportunity to display their crafts to a large audience.
Maha Al-Ruwais, director of craft activities in the Eastern Province, agreed with the need to empower Saudi craftswomen, pointing out that it would boost national income.
“Many women working in this field are responsible for providing a living for their families. There are university graduates and higher degree holders who have found in this field an opportunity to work and invest by exploiting their talents and interests,” said Al-Ruwais.
Amal Al-Qasir, a college student who grew up in a family that practiced the profession of “sadu” weaving, said, “I am proud of our family tradition, which is the reason why I strive to participate in all the heritage festivals, as they provide an opportunity for us to promote our profession.”
“This profession is a good source of income, especially after the growing interest in the past years. We are also witnessing a growing demand among young women to learn and practice this skill, which is gratifying,” she said.
Mashaal Al-Harbi, another graduate student working in the field of manufacturing household products, said there are many qualified and trained Saudi women in this field with great potential who require more support.
Umm Turki, who makes qursan and traditional rugag bread — a profession rarely practiced by women nowadays, said she engaged in this profession since she was 17 years old.
Umm Turki has participated in many festivals and events, and has become a well-known name in the Eastern Province, gaining the support of influential figures in the society.
“I have a passion for this work, which has prompted me to participate at different festivals and events in the province in order to keep this profession alive and train the younger generation,” said Umm Turki.
Meanwhile, Umm Bandar, who is originally from Al-Qassim and bakes klija, maamol and other traditional sweets for a living complained that her inability to reach stakeholders has limited her participation in national festivals.
“Now most of my work is within houses, guesthouses, malls, charity events,” she said, adding, “I hope I can receive financial support to be able to produce larger quantities and promote my products in the local market.”