Saudi potter in Al-Jouf revives traditional craft amid Year of Handicrafts 2025

📷SPA

Riyadh, Nov. 13, 2025 (SABN) – The traditional craft of pottery and ceramics continues to hold cultural and historical importance in Saudi Arabia, reflecting the longstanding connection between people and their natural environment. The practice, among the oldest clay handicrafts in the region, has gained renewed attention in Al-Jouf as part of the Year of Handicrafts 2025 initiatives.

Muayid Al-Arjan, a potter from Al-Jouf, began learning the craft 18 years ago during art classes. Now 28, he continues to develop his skills by creating clay models inspired by castles, heritage houses, and historical landmarks. He noted that his recent work has focused on studying ancient kilns in Al-Jouf to better understand traditional production methods.

Al-Arjan said the stages of pottery making include preparing and kneading the clay, shaping it through techniques such as coiling and slab construction, and completing the pieces with glazing or metallic oxides. His models include representations of the Caliph Umar ibn Al-Khattab Mosque, Marid Castle, Diriyah, and Al-Masmak Fort.

The renewed interest in pottery aligns with Year of Handicrafts 2025 programs aimed at supporting traditional crafts, strengthening cultural identity, and enhancing the economic potential of heritage industries within local communities.