Awatef Almesmari is a master practitioner of Al Sadu weaving, the creative lives in Abu Dhabi and shares her craft with future generations. We spent five minutes with the artist to learn more about her work and why she is so dedicated to preserving her culture through weaving.

What inspired you to start Al Sadu? 

Whilst attending festivals, I was attracted to the patterns and colours. I then entered a course until I eventually I reached level three and become a master artisan in the craft.

Were you always a creative person? 

Over the past few years, I have tried many types of handicrafts, but Al Sadu is my favourite, because it comes from our tradition in the UAE.

How long does the process take? 

It differs based on the pattern, length and width of the piece. The wider the piece, the longer it takes. This also applies to the difficulty of the pattern. I also prefer to take my time finishing the piece I am working with, so I get the best quality out of the piece.

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How has traditional weaving developed over the years? 

The looms that the past generations used were so different from the looms we use these days. This has made it easier for artisans to finish more pieces in less time. The yarn also differs – previously, they used animal hair, but now we use yarn instead. 

What is the best thing about creating with your hands? 

Using my hands to create means the pieces always have a place in my heart. I always try to put effort into everything related to the piece. One of the most memorable projects I worked on was a wooden chair that had some Sadu pieces within the chair. I used quilting to combine many pieces of Sadu that I had put onto the chair. 

You have recently started leading classes at the House of Artisans – do you enjoy teaching the craft? 

I really enjoy teaching due to the interest that spans generations. Along with teaching at the House of Artisans, I have given a course at the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, another one at the Sheikh Zayed Festival, and one at the Family Development Foundation.

Where do you get the inspiration for your craft from?

From our neighbouring countries such as Kuwait, which also has Sadu woven into their culture.

Have you seen interest grow in Al Sadu weaving in recent years? 

Yes, Al Sadu has become increasingly popular with modern generations. Nowadays, the traditional craft is being used in a modern sense to make clothes, bags, wallets and accessories, rather than just tents as the Bedouins used to do. Al Sadu was also a part of COP28 last year and was included in the UNESCO World Tangible Heritage List in 2011. 

Where can people buy your products? 

On my Instagram page, which is named after the craft itself, translates to ‘our Sadu’. Customers can customise their order, choosing the pattern, colours, length and width of the piece. 

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