Craftsman in Hail Revives Heritage Identity Through Traditional Najdi and Haili Doors

At Hail's traditional market, craftsman Abdullah Al-Khuzam dedicates his time to reviving regional architectural history by crafting traditional Haili and Najdi wooden doors. By teaching his sons and daughters the authentic details of this sustainable craft, Al-Khuzam ensures that the visual identity of the region's old houses is preserved for younger generations.

 Al-Khuzam uses local tamarisk wood, which is harvested twice a year for durability, and shapes it using hand-carving techniques and traditional tools. His signature Haili doors feature a robust structure built on four main beams, secured with round-headed iron nails, geometric carvings, a traditional wooden lock, and an iron handle. He also produces classic three-beam Najdi doors painted in earthy, environment-inspired colors.

 Beyond doors, his pavilion features detailed wooden models of past daily life, including well waterwheels, camel saddles, and miniature mud houses. Al-Khuzam regularly demonstrates his carving techniques to visitors of all ages, promoting the value of traditional handicrafts as an essential component of Saudi national identity.