Al Tannur

Element Name

Al Tannur

Other Names

Al Hindawi

Practice Environment

All environments

Practice Location

All Emirates of the UAE

Scope of Practice

All segments of society

Heritage Domain/ Category

Customs, Traditions and Social Etiquette

Element Type/ Subcategory

Traditions and Etiquette of Food and Hospitality

Current Status

Living heritage

The Tannur consists of a pit dug approximately half a metre into the ground and lined with stones in a circular arrangement rising about one metre above ground level. It is then plastered and smoothed with red clay until firm. There are three types of tannur. The Harees Tannur is a pit in the ground sized to accommodate the cooking pot. The fixed tannur is built from clay or gypsum, and later cement, and occupies a permanent place in one corner of the house for regular cooking. The movable tannur consists of three stones placed close together, with dry wood, charcoal or other combustible pieces placed between them and the cooking vessel set above. The woman of the household could move this type to any location she wished.

Criteria Applicable to Nominate Element

01

Geographical or Cultural Specificity: The element is characterized by its association with a specific geographic area or cultural group within the country, giving it a unique identity that distinguishes it from other practices. This element represents part of the social and cultural history of the community, enhancing its value as a distinctive component of local or national identity.

02

Continuity and Intergenerational Transmission: The element is passed from one generation to the next, either orally through stories, songs, and narratives, or practically through training and hands-on practice. This living process ensures the element’s survival and development over time, while maintaining its connection to its cultural roots.