Crafting Tradition and Innovation: Gulf Sandals

Abstract

The common name of the traditional Gulf sandal is “Zbeiri Na al”, where “Zbeiri” is the name of the design and “Na al” is the name of the traditional sandal from this region. These sandals embody the fusion of cultural identity and craftsmanship excellence in the United Arab Emirates. The “Zbeiri Na al” sandals are the first traditional sandals known in the Gulf region and are worn all year round by all age groups, from children to elderly men. This article provides an insight into the historical significance of Gulf sandals (also known as Arabian sandals or Emirati sandals), focusing on the craftsmanship and how the traditional sandals are gaining interest from globally renowned fashion brands whose designs are inspired by Gulf culture and tradition. It also examines the cultural essence, market dynamics and the intersection of tradition and innovation in leather craftsmanship in the Gulf, particularly in the United Arab Emirates (hereafter: UAE).