Sheikh Mohammed Reviews Research Project Tracing Al Khuzam’s Evolution and Role in Emirati Identity

Dubai, The Gulf Observer: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, reviewed a research project documenting the historical evolution of Al Khuzam and its enduring significance in Emirati society and cultural identity.

The project traces Al Khuzam from its early functional use in camel steering and desert navigation to its development as part of traditional attire and lifestyle, and ultimately to its contemporary role as a distinctive symbol of Emirati identity.

In the presence of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai; H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai; and Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, Chairman of The Executive Office of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mohammed was briefed on the project’s key pillars.

These include research documenting the evolution of Al Khuzam across generations, traditional crafting techniques, and the role of artisans in preserving and transmitting the craft.

Supervised by the Development Office, the project brought together researchers, specialists, artisans and creatives from various disciplines. It combines historical research with living craftsmanship to preserve knowledge, reinterpret traditional practices and explore new opportunities for designers and entrepreneurs.

The research documents Al Khuzam’s development through three principal stages: its functional phase associated with camel steering and desert navigation; its social phase as an element of traditional attire and regional lifestyle; and its modern symbolic phase as an expression of Emirati identity.

It also presents historical evidence from across the Arab world concerning Al Khuzam’s use and documents its appearance in Arabic poetry, where it was associated with camels, travel and leadership and later came to symbolize qualities including determination, strength and resilience.

The project further examines the traditional process of making Al Khuzam, beginning with the collection of wool and spinning fibres into fine threads, followed by braiding them into strong rope and adding knots, rings and silver chains. These elements combine practical functionality with aesthetic value.

Particular emphasis is placed on Emirati artisans who continue to safeguard the craft’s techniques, materials and distinctive details while passing their knowledge to younger generations. The project describes Al Khuzam craftsmanship as an integrated ecosystem encompassing knowledge, skills, materials, techniques and human stories.

The study also explores ways to translate Al Khuzam’s distinctive forms and visual elements into contemporary designs and products. Innovative works and bespoke collections inspired by its rings, threads and other details demonstrate how traditional motifs can be adapted for modern applications while retaining their cultural character.

The project highlights the contribution of Emirati entrepreneurs and designers in reintroducing Al Khuzam through contemporary products, strengthening its presence in daily life and presenting an authentic aspect of UAE culture to wider audiences.

The initiative ultimately seeks to deepen knowledge of Al Khuzam, preserve its craftsmanship for future generations, and empower artisans, designers and entrepreneurs to expand its contemporary applications while maintaining its connection to Emirati heritage and identity.