Arabic Calligraphy

Element Name

Arabic Calligraphy

Practice Environment

All environments

Practice Location

All Emirates of the UAE

Scope of Practice

Artisans

Heritage Domain/ Category

Traditional craftsmanship

Element Type/ Subcategory

Knowledge,Skills and Practices

Current Status

Living heritage

Arabic calligraphy is an art based on shaping letters in an aesthetic manner reflecting harmony, precision and imagination. It developed with the beginnings of Islam and evolved over the centuries into several styles, including Naskh, Ruq'ah, Thuluth, Diwani and Kufi.

Criteria Applicable to Nominate Element

01

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.