Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council has partnered with Apple to host the Irthi Apple Al Sadu workshop UAE, a specialised session focused on the traditional Emirati craft of Al Sadu. According to a press release from Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council, the session took place at the Museum of the Future as part of the 4th edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit.
The collaboration highlights a growing intersection between heritage and technology in the UAE. While Abu Dhabi currently hosts the World Future Energy Summit, Dubai is focusing on the creator economy, bringing traditional craftsmanship into the digital age through modern storytelling techniques.
- Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council partners with Apple for a specialised workshop
- Event takes place at the Museum of the Future in Dubai
- Focuses on capturing traditional Al Sadu craft using iPhone photography
- Part of the 4th edition of the 1 Billion Followers Summit
- Aims to bridge Emirati heritage with digital storytelling
What to Expect: Emirati Crafts Digital Storytelling with Apple
The Irthi Apple Al Sadu workshop is designed to show content creators how to use modern tools to capture the intricate details of Al Sadu, a traditional weaving technique. Participants used iPhone photography to explore the textures, colours, and patterns of the craft, translating physical heritage into digital content.
This initiative aligns with the broader push for Apple’s creative tools in the region, demonstrating how camera hardware can help preserve cultural narratives. The programme included structured sessions on documenting the Al Sadu-making process, allowing creators to interact directly with craftswomen.
Collaboration: Irthi Apple Al Sadu workshop UAE
The partnership aims to make traditional crafts relevant to younger generations and the digital audience. By positioning Al Sadu within a modern visual framework, the council hopes to expand its reach on social platforms.
“Irthi is committed to expanding opportunities for community engagement with Emirati crafts and presenting them through contemporary frameworks that reflect their cultural and aesthetic value,” said Her Excellency Reem BinKaram, Director General of Irthi.
She added that this event marks the council’s first experience using Al Sadu for direct community interaction, following an immersive learning programme with Beit Al Sadu.
Dates and Location: 1 Billion Followers Summit & Irthi Apple Workshop
The workshop was held as part of the 1 Billion Followers Summit, which runs over three days. While the summit is hosted at Emirates Towers, this specific workshop took place at the Museum of the Future.
The event is part of a larger effort to connect heritage with the massive reach of digital creators. This innovative Irthi Apple Al Sadu workshop UAE highlights a trend of tech giants deepening their local footprint, similar to the growth of Apple’s ecosystem in the region over the last year.
Event Info: Irthi Apple Al Sadu Workshop Details
Event: Al Sadu Craft Workshop (Irthi x Apple)
Dates: January 2026 (During 1 Billion Followers Summit)
Location: Museum of the Future, Dubai
Host: Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council & Apple
Admission: Part of Summit programming
