RIYADH: On the far southern shores of Saudi Arabia, where the Red Sea meets the islands of Farasan, heritage researcher and maritime expert Ibrahim Muftah often finds himself standing on the coastline, looking out at the horizon.
For Muftah, the waves carry memories of the great wooden ships that once defined life along these waters. These vessels were a source of livelihood and a symbol of pride, craftsmanship and connection to the sea.
Today, however, Muftah fears that this tradition is slipping away. “It saddens me that all the fathers who practiced this craft in Farasan have passed away, and only very few craftsmen remain,” he said.
“Most of those who once worked in pearl diving and collecting shells are gone. We live in a different era now, where younger generations know little about the sea.”
These vessels are a source of livelihood and a symbol of pride, craftsmanship and connection to the sea. (Supplied)
