Pottery

Pottery is one of the oldest and most prestigious traditional crafts in the UAE, with a history dating back to the third millennium (3,000-2,000) BC. It was practiced as part of the daily life of the community, where pottery was used for various purposes, such as storing water and food, cooking, and serving meals. Pottery items and tools of different shapes and sizes were handcrafted using traditional techniques, relying on natural clay, reflecting the skills of the Emirati citizen in transforming raw materials into artistic pieces distinguished by their beauty and elegance. Over time, pottery in Dubai and the UAE evolved to include more complex designs and intricate details while preserving the traditional methods passed down through generations. In recent years, this craft has gained widespread attention in Dubai, with the opening of many studios and workshops that train enthusiasts in pottery-making techniques. Dubai Culture, through the Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children, has also focused on teaching children and adults the basics of pottery and its arts, as well as how to use clay to mold creative shapes and models.