The Importance of Documenting Traditional Handicrafts to Develop the National Income Through Tourism: Al Ahsa as a Model

(Hatem Tawfik Ahmed and Mohamed Almulla)

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Abstract

The aim of preserving the traditional handicrafts of Al Ahsa governorate is not only because of its cultural heritage but also as an important sector affecting gross national income and job creation. This is as well as being one of the important ingredients of tourist attractions. This article aims to document some traditional handicrafts in Al Ahsa with all related information available, methods and tools used and the role of public and private institutions in protecting them from disappearing. Interviews with some craftsmen in Al Ahsa were used to document traditional knowledge and inherited indigenous knowledge. In addition, the result shows that most of the documented crafts were in danger of disappearing by the age of artisans, the lack of people who inherit the crafts, the low demand for traditional handicrafts products and the difficulty of marketing. Therefore, the recommendation is to develop the handicrafts sector, modernize the means of production and establish specialized centres to develop the capabilities of its workers. Moreover, a non-traditional pattern should be considered for the development of traditional handicrafts, as one of the tourist attractions and increase the national income. KEYWORDS pottery, bisht, wood carving, khusayyat, documentation, handicrafts
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