JEDDAH: Azha Workshop is a true example of creativity. Founder Rawaa Bakhsh embarked on a journey to establish her company in 2014, in Canada, to make jewelry inspired by spirituality, culture, and the Arabic language.
“I am a third-generation jeweler. My grandfather and father both worked with precious metals and fine jewelry,” she said.
The process of creating individual trinkets and adornments is long but worth it in the end, Bakhsh added. “The process of (making) our jewelry is coming up with a concept, then going through variations of designs, then being molded, and then being plated with gold.”
What makes each product unique is the focus on the concept, the story behind each piece, the description of each piece and how it is interpreted by each customer.
Perhaps their most unique pieces are the religious ones and those with cultural significance.
One of the simpler designs is a pendant called “Safar” which is an origami camel. Customers have sent many pictures of themselves back to Azha Workshop holding the pendant in different parts of the world.
A popular bracelet is the “Shahada” string that has the Shahada written on it in beautiful calligraphy, and which comes in all sizes and colors. She also can turn verses from the Qur’an into wearable pieces of jewelry.
When asked about her inspiration, Bakhsh said: “I want to raise awareness, to maintain our spiritual values and beliefs, to make an impact, no matter how small.”
One day, she told Arab News, she would like her workshop to become the leading Muslim lifestyle accessories brand in the Middle East.
Startup of the Week: Azha Workshop is embracing national culture
Startup of the Week: Azha Workshop is embracing national culture
- A popular bracelet is the “Shahada” string that has the Shahada written on it in beautiful calligraphy, and which comes in all sizes and colors
Winter at Tantora Festival returns to AlUla, showcasing rich cultural heritage
- Festival now established as a premier annual event
AlUla: The Winter at Tantora Festival launched on Thursday in AlUla. It runs until Jan. 10 and presents a cultural season which celebrates the region’s rich civilizational, cultural, and historic legacy.
The festival’s program includes a wide array of cultural, artistic, and traditional activities, reported the Saudi Press Agency.
Attractions include Old Town Nights, Shorfat Tantora, When Shadow Tracks Us, and the Al-Manshiyah Carnival.
FASTFACT
In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities.
In addition, there are guided tours of street art through the Old Town, special events commemorating the Year of Handicrafts, culinary experiences, and artistic and musical performances.
The festival derives its name from the Tantora, an ancient sundial situated in the Old Town’s center. In the past, AlUla’s inhabitants used this clock to measure time and coordinate their agricultural activities. The modern festival honors this tradition by marking the onset of winter and the start of the planting season.
This year’s edition offers a range of experiences to celebrate heritage, genuine local culture, and traditional craftsmanship.
As part of AlUla Moments, the Winter at Tantora Festival supports efforts to boost cultural and tourist engagement while enhancing the visitor experience.
The initiative reflects Saudi Vision 2030’s commitment to advancing cultural tourism and promoting the Kingdom’s historic landmarks.
The festival has established itself as one of AlUla’s premier annual events, consistently attracting both domestic and international audiences.
