The UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list just got a fresh update. From henna ceremonies and the art of Nabulsi soapmaking to the lush blooms of Taif roses, this year’s additions celebrate the soul of the region—from Saudi Arabia to Tunisia and beyond. This year’s entries were unveiled during the general session in Paraguay this week, joining an ever-growing list of Arab staples, including harissa, Rai music, and mansaf, to name a few.
From now on, the list of included customs will be persevered, protected, and forever upheld to avoid them disappearing in the future.
Read on to discover the cultural gems from the region that made it on the list.
Henna
16 countries joined forces to present henna as a shared tradition of beauty and connection. From the UAE to Saudi Arabia, Morocco, and Palestine, this submission celebrates henna as a social ritual that unites communities during weddings, festivals, and other milestones.
The UAE’s submission included a video filmed in Al Ain where an Emirati woman explained henna’s role in creating moments of joy. “What makes henna unique is its ability to bring people together across generations,” the proposal noted, highlighting its iconic place in celebrations across the Arab world.
Nabulsi Soap
Palestine’s entry put a spotlight on Nabulsi soap, a legacy that dates back over a thousand years. Made from olive oil, water, and lye, this centuries-old craft is rooted in the city of Nablus, where olive groves provide the foundation for this artisanal tradition.
The proposal emphasized how making soap at home connects families, with bars often exchanged as heartfelt gifts.
Taif Roses
March in Taif signals more than the start of spring; it’s rose season. Families in this Saudi region rise early to hand-pick the famed Taif roses, later distilling their petals into rose water, essential oils, and fragrant products. These blooms also find their way into mosques, kitchens, and gift boxes, embodying a tradition as lush as the roses themselves.
Aleppo Soap
Aleppo soap is history in your hands. With roots stretching back over 5,000 years, this olive-and-laurel oil creation is one of the world’s oldest soaps. In traditional factories, artisans mix, cool, and carve blocks of soap that are hand-stamped with family insignias.
Twayef
Tunisia’s Twayef troupes keep the spirit of the Ghbonten tribe alive through poetry and performance. Dating back to the 17th century, these all-male groups sing sacred and celebratory songs, dressed in white robes and crimson caps while beating a drum called the chenna.
Algerian Ceremonial Dress
Worn at weddings and celebrations, these intricate garments are crafted by hand, with techniques passed down through families and workshops alike.
The artistry in every stitch reflects a rich tradition of self-expression and connection to community, making these garments timeless symbols of Algeria’s cultural fabric.
