The National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) is offering a hands-on workshop aimed at reviving the traditional "Mubayyat" chest, a significant element of Qatar’s artisanal heritage. The workshop, scheduled from July 19 to 22, will take place at the museum’s Education Studio as part of the institution’s “Mahara” (Skill) programme, which focuses on promoting traditional crafts through interactive learning.
Running daily from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and conducted in Arabic, the workshop aligns with the NMoQ’s 50th anniversary celebrations, reflecting the museum’s ongoing dedication to preserving intangible cultural heritage. The Mahara series provides participants with practical experience in various traditional professions and crafts, emphasizing both their historical relevance and cultural value. Skilled artisans lead these sessions, helping to ensure that these time-honored techniques are passed down to younger generations.
Artisan and calligrapher Assaad al-Turki highlighted the significance of safeguarding traditional craftsmanship in a recent interview. He noted that preserving these skills is vital for keeping them alive and relevant, allowing young people to connect with their history while developing artisanal abilities that could inspire future innovation. Al-Turki suggested that such crafts have the potential to evolve into unique souvenirs that contribute to Qatar’s cultural economy, offering residents and tourists alike an authentic experience linked to the nation’s heritage.
The “Mubayyat” chest, the workshop’s focus, is a handcrafted wooden travel box historically used in Qatar during short journeys. It served as a practical container for personal belongings, making it a staple in everyday life and a symbol of the country’s traditions in travel, hospitality, and craftsmanship. Participants in the four-day workshop will not only learn about the chest’s cultural and historical background but will also receive instruction on building their own chests using authentic techniques.
By engaging directly with this craft, attendees gain hands-on skills while contributing to the preservation of a unique aspect of Qatar’s artisanal legacy. The NMoQ’s Mahara initiative seeks to deepen public appreciation for traditional crafts and encourage the community to embrace these skills, which embody crucial elements of Qatar’s national identity. Through educational programs and participatory activities, the museum continues to support the role of handmade crafts in documenting the country’s history and protecting its cultural heritage for future generations.