GROUP 4
ARTS OF SAUDI
ARABIA
SAUDI ARABIA ARCHITECTURE
1. Traditional Architecture:
•Mudbrick Buildings: Historically,
many structures were built using
mudbrick and stone, ideal for the
harsh desert climate. One notable
example is the Al-Ula area, known
for its ancient Nabatean tombs and
the mudbrick forts.
SAUDI ARABIA ARCHITECTURE
•Traditional Houses: In cities like
Riyadh, the Nadji style is common,
with thick walls to insulate from heat,
courtyards for privacy, and high
windows.
•Mushrabiya: This intricate wooden
latticework was used to create privacy
and shade while allowing airflow,
typically seen in older homes.
SAUDI ARABIA ARCHITECTURE
2. Islamic Influences:
•Saudi Arabia is the birthplace of Islam, so
religious architecture plays a central role.
The Grand Mosque in Mecca (Masjid al-
Haram) and the Prophet’s Mosque in
Medina (Al-Masjid an-Nabawi) are central
examples of Islamic architecture with grand
domes, minarets, courtyards, and intricate
tile work.
•Minarets and Domes: These are common
features in mosques, with large courtyards
and prayer halls.
SAUDI ARABIA ARCHITECTURE
3. Modern Architecture:
•Skyscrapers: In cities like Riyadh
and Jeddah, the skyline is
dominated by contemporary
skyscrapers and glass buildings.
One of the most iconic is the
Kingdom Centre Tower in
Riyadh, shaped like a parabolic
arch.
SAUDI ARABIA ARCHITECTURE
•Futuristic Designs: Jeddah’s
King Abdulaziz International
Airport and Riyadh’s King
Abdulaziz Financial District
feature cutting-edge, sustainable,
and futuristic designs, blending
technology with tradition.
SAUDI ARABIA CRAFTS
Saudi Arabian crafts are rooted in the
country's nomadic and tribal history,
and are a reflection of its cultural
heritage. These crafts were originally
functional, but also served as a means
of artistic expression and cultural
storytelling.
SAUDI ARABIA CRAFTS
Saudi Arabian crafts
include weaving, pottery,
metalwork, jewelry, and
leatherwork. These crafts are a
reflection of Saudi culture and
history.
SAUDI ARABIA CRAFTS
• Calligraphy: Dating back 1,400 years
to the first century of Islam,
calligraphy is a revered art in Saudi
Arabia. Because its primary subject
matter has historically been the Holy
Qur'an, calligraphy is considered to
be the quintessential Islamic art
form.
SAUDI ARABIA CRAFTS
MOST FAMOUS CRAFTS OF SAUDI ARABIA
1. Tapestry and Weaving (Sadu):
•Sadu is one of the most iconic forms of traditional craft in Saudi Arabia, particularly associated with
Bedouin culture. It involves weaving intricate patterns into wool or camel hair using a loom.
•The textiles are used for a variety of purposes, such as blankets, rugs, cushions, and tents. The
geometric patterns often carry symbolic meaning, such as representations of the desert landscape or the
nomadic lifestyle.
•Al Sadu is a recognized UNESCO cultural heritage, and today, artisans continue to create beautiful
woven pieces that are highly prized.
2. Pottery:
•Traditional pottery, made from clay, is one of the oldest crafts in Saudi Arabia. It is especially prevalent
in regions like the Najd and Asir.
•Pottery items such as jugs, pots, and vases are often handmade and decorated with geometric
patterns or simple, earthy tones.
•Khanjar pots, which are shaped like the traditional curved daggers (Khanjar), are a unique form of
pottery found in the central regions of Saudi Arabia.
3. Woodwork and Carpentry:
•Wood carving and mashrabiya (intricate wooden latticework) are central to Saudi crafts. The art of
woodwork has historically been used in creating doors, windows, and furniture, often adorned with
geometric designs and motifs.
•Saqifa (traditional wooden ceiling panels) are a feature of historic homes in regions like Jeddah and
Najd, often intricately decorated with carvings.
4. Metalwork:
•Copper and silver are commonly used in traditional crafts, especially for making jewelry, containers,
and decorative items. The use of metal to create teapots, trays, and incense burners is widespread.
•Khutwah, or decorative silver jewelry, is highly prized and often worn during weddings or special
occasions. These pieces are often handmade and can feature Islamic calligraphy, geometric patterns,
and intricate filigree work.
•Brass and bronze items are also popular, such as traditional coffee pots, Dallahs, and incense burners.
SAUDI ARABIA ATTIRE
Saudi Arabian clothing is a significant part of the country's
culture and heritage. It's a way to express national identity and
historical heritage, and it can also convey cultural
understanding. The traditional attire in Saudi Arabia has deep
cultural and religious significance, shaped by the country’s
history, climate, and Islamic values. Here’s some context
behind the garments:
Cultural and Religious Influence:
Saudi Arabia is the birthplace of Islam, and the attire reflects
the values of modesty and piety central to the religion. The
garments worn by both men and women are designed to align
with the Islamic principles of modesty, which require that
individuals cover certain parts of their bodies when in public.
SAUDI ARABIA ATTIRE
For Both Men and Women:
1.Accessories:
1. Gold Jewelry: Gold plays a significant role in Saudi fashion. Women often wear elaborate gold
jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. Some men also wear rings, often in
the form of signet rings.
2. Perfume: Fragrances such as oud (a strong, woody scent) and attar (a concentrated form of
perfume) are highly popular in Saudi culture, and both men and women wear perfumes as part
of their daily attire.
2.Modesty and Fashion:
1. Modesty is a central tenet of Saudi dress codes, influenced by Islamic values. Clothing, while
fashionable and stylish, tends to be conservative in terms of coverage and fit. The abaya and
thobe are designed to ensure that the body is covered from head to toe.
2. In urban centers like Riyadh and Jeddah, modern fashion designers are combining traditional
attire with contemporary designs, allowing for stylish expressions of modesty.
Special Occasions:
3.Weddings:
1. For weddings, both men and women wear their most elaborate clothing. Men may wear a bisht
over their thobe, and women often wear more ornate abayas or even special gowns for the
event. Jewelry, particularly gold, is worn lavishly by the women, and the event is a major social
occasion.
4.Religious Holidays:
1. During religious holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, people wear their finest clothes.
Men often wear newly made or freshly cleaned thobes, while women may wear new abayas or
fancy dresses.
Saudi Arabian attire is a significant cultural marker, showcasing a deep respect for tradition and religion
while also evolving to reflect modern style and personal expression.
SAUDI ARABIA TAPESTRY
Saudi Arabian tapestries are a reflection of the country's rich
culture, history, and traditions. The patterns and designs on
these tapestries are inspired by the natural landscape,
Bedouin traditions, and Islamic heritage. However, the rich
cultural heritage and artistic traditions of Saudi Arabia are
reflected in various forms of textile art, embroidery, and
craftsmanship that can be likened to tapestry in a broader
sense. Textiles and embroidery in Saudi Arabia, particularly
those from the Bedouin and other tribal cultures, hold great
cultural significance. These pieces often represent community,
heritage, and pride, and many of the designs are passed down
through generations. The focus on geometric patterns,
symbolism, and color helps preserve the identity of different
tribes and regions within the country.
SAUDI ARABIA TAPESTRY
Cultural Significance:
•Bedouin Identity: Sadu weaving is deeply intertwined with Bedouin
identity and the nomadic lifestyle. The craft was historically practiced
by women, who would weave while tending to daily tasks. Each piece
woven in Sadu is not only functional but also a way to tell stories and
pass down heritage.
•UNESCO Recognition: In 2011, the art of Sadu weaving was
added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
list, recognizing its importance in preserving cultural traditions and
knowledge.
•Modern Adaptations: Today, Sadu weaving continues to be
celebrated in Saudi Arabia, especially in cultural exhibitions and
festivals. Contemporary artists and designers are incorporating
traditional Sadu techniques into modern fashion, furniture, and decor,
blending tradition with new styles.
SAUDI ARABIA PROPS
When talking about Saudi Arabia props, especially in terms
of cultural or traditional items, it can refer to objects that
represent the country's heritage, customs, and lifestyle. These
props are often used for displays, exhibitions, or in cultural
presentations to showcase Saudi culture. Here are some key
props associated with Saudi Arabia:
These props, whether for cultural festivals, exhibits, or
gatherings, are reflective of Saudi Arabia's rich history,
traditions, and social customs. They not only represent Saudi
heritage but also serve as an expression of the values of
hospitality, respect, and community.
