After a successful inaugural year of celebrating, promoting, and immersing the community in the richness of Qatari artistry and Islamic crafts, Herfah — a program delivered through a partnership by Qatar Foundation and The King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts — has announced the launch of its second year.

The program – based within Al Khater House, a historic landmark in Education City – will continue to offer its core programming, including the year-long traditional crafts program, short-term courses, and Ramadan workshops, all of which will be open to the public.

As the first year of Herfah came to a close, the creative works of the graduates of its intensive program were showcased at an event at Al Khater House, which was attended by HE Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice Chairperson of Qatar Foundation.

“Our intention with Herfah was not only to preserve traditional skills, but to create a space where craft becomes a form of education, one that helps restore a deeper sense of value,” said Sheikha Hind.

“The more time we spend working with our hands, the more reverence we develop for what is well made. And in doing so, we come to see the world differently.”

Herfah’s second-year program will begin in September, with registration opening in July and selected participants notified by the end of August. Applicants must be aged 18 years or older and have prior experience in crafts, and can enroll here, or via Education City and Qatar Foundation social media channels. In addition to the year-long core programs, a variety of short-term courses will be announced later in the year.

In its inaugural year, Herfah engaged over 200 participants in hands-on learning experiences and creative exploration. Among them was Sana Arooj, who said she found the opportunity to explore traditional crafts an enriching experience while gaining a deeper understanding of Qatari culture, especially because of the thoughtful structure and delivery of each module.

“The dedication and effort of everyone involved in teaching the skills were remarkable, and their passion made the learning process more enjoyable and inspiring,” she said.

“Through my sessions, I gained not only technical skills, but also a deeper appreciation for cultural heritage and artistic mode. Most importantly, I learned to respect the process.  Traditional crafts aren’t about the final piece. It’s about discipline, mindfulness and the journey of creation. It’s inspired me to look at my surroundings with a more artistic lens, and to appreciate the beauty in heritage and craftsmanship.”

Najiba Haqdost, another participant in Year 1 of the program, said that being part of Herfah gave her the chance to learn and practice traditional craft skills – things she only had the chance to read about before.

“I spent time working on different projects – from painting using natural pigments to gilding using gold leaves,” she explained. “I was guided by skilled artists who emphasized not only on the techniques of doing the craft but also on the history and philosophy behind it, which deepened my respect of heritage arts, and inspired me to keep these traditions alive in my own creative journey.”

According to Kholoud M. Al Ali, Executive Director Community Engagement and Programming at Qatar Foundation, Herfah aims to deepen understanding and appreciation of Qatari and Islamic cultural heritage, while positioning Al Khater House as a dynamic hub for the preservation of tradition, innovation, and a space of learning, discovery, and cultural appreciation.

“The Herfah program has made significant progress toward realizing a vision where history is honored, knowledge is exchanged, and creativity thrives, and we’re excited to continue expanding its impact in the years to come,” Al Ali said.

“Through such initiatives, partnerships and educational programs, Qatar Foundation plays a vital role in cultural preservation, safeguarding and promoting the rich heritage of Qatar and the broader Gulf region. As Qatar Foundation celebrates its 30th anniversary, these efforts further strengthen the connection between the community and its cultural identity, ensuring that these traditions are celebrated and passed down for future generations.”

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