Doha: Several people in the GCC, including Qatar, have stopped making traditional handicrafts themselves, and now prefer to hire Asians and other Arab nationals to do the work for them.
Traditional vocations in the GCC are gradually declining, and handicrafts are now seen as items for exhibitions only, according to some locals.
They said GCC citizens were ‘abandoned’ traditional crafts despite the fact that governments are trying to promote them through funds and other initiatives.
A majority of traditional handicrafts are being imported, even though they can be easily produced locally.
“In Qatar, the contribution of the vocational sector to the national economy has come down in recent years,” Ali Bahzad, a Qatari, was quoted as saying by Al Sharq.
“Traditional handicrafts could be a strong business here, instead it is just limited to cultural and heritage activities.”
Men and women in some Gulf countries were previously involved in making different kinds of handicrafts. However, their interest has gone down significantly over the years.
Another Qatari said traditional businesses can help create small businesses and job opportunities for many.
Some associations and unions are trying to revive the handicraft profession by organising training for men and women so that they can be self-employed and self-reliant.
They say this could also reduce the burden on local economies as there would be no need to import such items.
“Local businesses would also flourish because there is a high demand for handmade items in the country,” Ahmed, another Qatari, said.
Some, however, appreciated the fact that the government was paying attention to the sector and supporting it by providing funds.
“Authorities have established committees and institutions to look after such vocations. At least, they are trying to maintain our heritage,” Bahzad said.
The Peninsula
