Ithra launches Khoos Initiative to celebrate palm weaving tradition

The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), an initiative by Aramco, has announced the launch of the Khoos Initiative, a cultural project dedicated to celebrating, recognising and reimagining the ancient craft of palm weaving (khoos).

- Muhammad Yusuf, Features Writer

Connecting artisans and communities in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province with global creatives and audiences, the initiative strives to bridge centuries of tradition with contemporary practice, presenting palm weaving as both a living heritage and a source of present and future innovation. Noura Alzamil, Ithra's Head of Programs, said that "the Khoos Initiative illustrates how Ithra brings heritage and craft into conversation with contemporary practices. By connecting artisans, artists, and designers across borders, we support traditional Saudi techniques fostering sustainable and innovative approaches within the craft sector. Projects like this create opportunities for collaboration, strengthen the cultural ecosystem, and contribute to global dialogues on heritage, creativity, and design."

Palm weaving, or khoos, is one of the Kingdom's oldest and most enduring crafts, where dried palm fronds are woven into baskets, mats, and decorative objects. A practical skill, it also embodies cultural memory, resilience, and creativity, passed down through generations in local communities. Ithra's Khoos Initiative shines a light on living traditions, particularly in Al-Ahsa Oasis, the world's largest date palm oasis and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the craft continues to play an active role in daily and cultural life.