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Emirati traditions

Arabic Kohl

Arabic kohl is a fine black powder used as eyeliner by people of all genders, for beauty and for protection against wind, sand and sunlight. It is made from natural ingredients, mostly by women, and stored in decorative containers called makhala.

Updated October 2026 · Facts checked 22 October 2026

Year on the UNESCO list
20251
Year on the UNESCO list
Countries on the listing
91
Countries on the listing

Arabic Kohl

At a glance

At a glance
Item Detail
Name in Arabic الكحل العربي
UNESCO list Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
Year on the list 2025
Listed by Syria, Iraq, Jordan, Libya, Oman, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates

Source: UNESCO: Arabic Kohl1

Making it

Kohl is made at home or in gatherings, and recipes vary with the local environment. Women pass the skills to their daughters and granddaughters, and the makhala is often kept as a family keepsake.1

Where it is worn

Kohl belongs to everyday life, special occasions and religious rituals. It is also used as a traditional remedy.1

Sources

  1. UNESCO: Arabic Kohl
  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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