Events and
Activities

the bahrain authority for culture and antiquities celebrates the first anniversary of the opening of bait al naqda in muharraq with a special event titled “naqda mural”, featuring a group of talented female artists. naqda is a traditional women’s craft that flourished in bahrain and across the arabian gulf, involving the embroidery of fabrics with fine silver threads, sometimes gilded with gold. these delicate patterns once adorned the clothing and headpieces of bahraini women for generations, drawing inspiration from flowers, abstract forms, and geometric and botanical motifs — a harmonious blend of authenticity and beauty. what was once a social activity has evolved into a cherished artistic craft, practiced with skill and devotion by masterful artisans.

the mural symbolises the continuity of this deeply rooted heritage and reaffirms a commitment to preserving naqda as a symbol of bahraini cultural 

identity. opened by the bahrain authority for culture and antiquities in november 2024, bait al naqda serves as a dedicated space for this unique women’s craft. located in the heart of historic muharraq along the pearling path — a unesco world heritage site — the house stands as a reminder of a period that witnessed the flourishing of this art form. it was once surrounded by women who practised naqda with exceptional creativity, and today it hosts the awal women society, launched in 1996 to empower women and protect a craft at risk of disappearing.