Arar’s Traditional Market Keeps Heritage Alive through Women’s Crafts

The traditional market in the city of Arar stands as one of Northern Borders Region’s most prominent cultural and social landmarks. For more than 12 years, it has served as a permanent venue for showcasing women’s handicrafts, offering a living reflection of local heritage and inherited skills passed down through generations.
 Dozens of women take part in the market year-round, offering a diverse selection of handmade products, including Sadu weaving, ghee, embroidery, wool crafts, perfume and incense making, as well as traditional homemade dishes that reflect the local environment and culinary heritage.
 The market attracts particularly strong attendance during weekends, national occasions, and heritage seasons, and has become an important economic platform for families working in the cottage industry. It not only promotes their products but also strengthens women’s confidence and provides sustainable income opportunities, driven by growing demand from residents and visitors for authentic heritage items.
 The market features 44 shops designed in a traditional architectural style inspired by the northern environment.
 Supervisor of the market Namiyah Al-Anzi said the market provides several free training courses for female cooks and artisans, including courses on commercial practices, financial saving awareness, digital marketing, and self-development.