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Emirati traditions

Arabic Calligraphy

Arabic calligraphy is the art of handwriting Arabic script fluidly to convey harmony, grace and beauty. It uses the 28 letters of the alphabet, written in cursive from right to left, and letters can be stretched and reshaped into countless motifs. UNESCO lists it as of 2021.

Updated October 2026 · Facts checked 22 October 2026

Year on the UNESCO list
20211
Year on the UNESCO list
Countries on the listing
161
Countries on the listing

Arabic Calligraphy

At a glance

At a glance
Item Detail
Name in Arabic الخط العربي
UNESCO list Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
Year on the list 2021
Listed by 16 Arab countries, including the United Arab Emirates

Source: UNESCO: Arabic calligraphy: knowledge, skills and practices1

Traditional tools

  • A qalam, or pen, cut from reed or bamboo
  • Ink of honey, black soot and saffron
  • Handmade paper treated with starch, egg white and alum

Source: UNESCO: Arabic calligraphy: knowledge, skills and practices1

Calligraphy today

Modern calligraphers use markers and synthetic paint, and spray paint for calligraffiti on walls, signs and buildings. The script also decorates carved marble and wood, embroidery and etched metal. It is taught informally, in schools and through apprenticeships.1

Sources

  1. UNESCO: Arabic calligraphy: knowledge, skills and practices
  2. UNESCO: United Arab Emirates, elements on the Intangible Cultural Heritage lists

Facts checked 22 October 2026. Prepared by Invest-Emirates.ae for general information.

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