11 December 2025
UNESCO Inscribes “Bisht (men’s Abaa): skills and practices” on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
UNESCO has inscribed “Bisht (men’s Abaa): skills and practices” on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity during the twentieth session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, held in New Delhi, India, from 8 to 13 December 2025.
The nomination was submitted as a joint Arab file led by the State of Qatar, with the participation of the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the State of Kuwait, the Sultanate of Oman, the Republic of Iraq, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, and the Syrian Arab Republic. This collective effort reflects a shared Arab commitment to safeguarding and preserving the region’s intangible cultural heritage.
On this occasion, H.E. Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, stated: “We are delighted that ‘Bisht (men’s Abaa): skills and practices’ has been inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This traditional garment is deeply tied to the cultural identity of our Arab countries and reflects the cultural richness and long-standing traditions of our region”.
He added: “Through joint Arab efforts, the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities remains committed to showcasing the richness of Arab civilisation and highlighting its traditional social practices, thereby helping to promote Arab cultural achievements worldwide”.
The bisht, or men’s abaa, is one of the most prominent traditional garments worn in the Arabian Gulf region and neighbouring Arab countries. Commonly worn at formal events and weddings, it is a long cloak placed over regular clothing, draped over the shoulders, crossed at the chest, and fastened on one side, with the right arm left free for greetings. The bisht symbolises high social standing, dignity, and respect, enhancing the stature and presence of its wearer.
The craftsmanship of the bisht is regarded as one of the region’s most distinguished traditional arts. Skilled artisans create the garment with great precision, hand-embroidering the neckline and front panels using fine silk threads or gold- and silver-plated threads. The bisht stands as a symbol of shared Arab cultural identity and the enduring continuity of regional heritage.
