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Element Name
Al Sufriyah
Other Names
Sufriyah
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
Endangered heritage

Al Sufriyah

Al Sufriyah is a traditional cooking vessel closely associated with everyday life in old homes. Sufriyahs are pots and vessels generally made from brass, known locally as sufr, and were used to prepare various foods. They came in different sizes, including large sufriyahs used to cook enough food for many people at family gatherings and special occasions. There was also a large Sufriyat Al Halwa specifically used to prepare traditional sweets in substantial quantities. These vessels reflected the simplicity of earlier life and reliance on locally available utensils and were an essential part of the traditional kitchen. With the development of modern cooking equipment, the Sufriyah became less common in everyday use but continues to hold heritage value as a reflection of older ways of life in Emirati society.

Criteria Applicable to Nominate Element

01

Presence in Collective Memory and Intergenerational Cohesion: A cultural element is considered deeply rooted when it is held in the collective memory of the community and forms part of their daily experiences, occasions, and social relationships. It also contributes to strengthening the bonds of interaction between different generations, as it is transmitted from elders to younger members, providing a space for celebration and communal participation, thereby creating a sense of belonging and continuity.

02

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.

03

Preserving the Element within the Living Community Context: The element derives its value from being actively practiced in people’s daily lives or within their rituals and social occasions. Preserving the element does not mean freezing it in time, but rather supporting it to continue in its original environment, while respecting its natural evolution within the community context.

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