I have been very fortunate to meet some wonderful expat women over here, all willing to take me places I probably would not have found on my own. Judith, she is from England, & has been here 8 years and is quite knowledgeable, so when she offers to show me around I go, and we have had a great time. The Women's Handicraft Centre showcases the local arts and crafts, and gives you an opportunity to see up close how these women work to preserve interest and skills in the traditional crafts of the UAE. Telli(braiding of metallic ribbon), basket making, weaving, embroidery and henna. You shed your shoes at the door and step into a whole different world...seated on pillows on the floor, most, no longer wearing their Abaya (long black robe that covers their normal clothes) but still wearing their Burkha's (leather face mask). Most of the women love the attention & will talk about their craft, but permission is needed to take photos. We did happen to go on the last day before their summer holiday, so not as much to see but well worth a return visit!
The photos are mostly of the braiding, it was truly amazing and so beautiful, some with as many as 12 spools of thread, they work so fast. The green ribbon shown is about 30feet long and has taken more than 2 weeks to make. These ribbons are sewn into their robes, around the neckline and sleeves.
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