The United Arab Emirates is a land which is rich in tradition, where craftsmanship and culture are deeply intertwined with nature. Among its many traditional crafts, the art of making Safeefah—woven mats crafted from palm fronds—holds a special place in Emirati heritage. Rooted in the lifeblood of the desert, the date palm tree (Phoenix dactylifera) has provided nourishment, shelter, and craftsmanship to the people of the UAE for centuries. Today, the tradition of weaving Safeefah continues to be a symbol of sustainability, resilience, and artistry.
The date palm tree is more than just a source of fruit in the UAE- it is a cultural icon. Historically, it was a lifeline for Bedouin communities, offering shade, nutrition, and raw materials for daily life. From its trunk to its leaves and fibres, every part of the tree had a purpose. The UAE’s deep respect for this tree is reflected in its inclusion in UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage, recognizing the significance of palm- based crafts like Safeefah.
Safeefah is a time-honoured craft passed down through generations of Emirati artisans, particularly women who have mastered the skill over centuries. The process involves intricate techniques that require patience, accuracy, and an understanding of natural materials.
The first step in making Safeefah begins with harvesting the fronds from date palm trees. Only mature leaves are selected, ensuring sustainability while maintaining the health of the tree. The fronds are then cleaned and left to dry under the sun. Once dried, the fronds are softened to make them pliable. They are stripped into thin, flexible strands and sorted according to their thickness and length.
Weaving is done entirely by hand, using techniques passed down through generations. The strips are tightly interwoven, forming intricate geometric patterns. The traditional Safeefah is often left in its natural beige or brown color, but some artisans dye the fronds using natural pigments to create vibrant designs. Once the mat is woven, the edges are trimmed and secured to prevent fraying.
In Emirati culture, the art of weaving Safeefah is often associated with gatherings where women would sit together, share stories, and pass down their skills to younger generations, fostering a strong sense of community. In an era where sustainability is a global priority, Safeefah serves as an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic materials. Unlike plastic mats, Safeefah is biodegradable and non-toxic, making it an environmentally conscious choice. The UAE government and cultural organizations have taken initiatives to revive traditional crafts, encouraging local artisans and promoting handcrafted products as part of the nation’s heritage conservation efforts.
Today, the art of making Safeefah is experiencing a resurgence. Emirati artisans and designers are blending tradition with contemporary aesthetics, creating modern home décor pieces, fashion accessories, and even architectural elements using palm fronds. Museums, heritage festivals, and cultural centres across the UAE continue to showcase this craft, ensuring its preservation for future generations. The art of making Safeefah is a profound representation of the UAE’s rich heritage, deeply rooted in its most cherished natural resource—the date palm tree. More than just a woven mat, Safeefah embodies sustainability, craftsmanship, and cultural continuity. As the UAE embraces modernity while honouring its past, preserving this traditional craft ensures that the legacy of Safeefah lives on for generations to come.
Organised by
Preetha Vikram
