Egypt’s Khayamia handicraft: Surviving despite hinders

Remember the last time you saw a Ramadan tent or khayma? Didn’t you get fascinated by this one of a kind art? Khayamia or tent making is a prominent industry in Egypt and specially in the holy month of Ramadan. If you want to know more about it, read this article.

Do you know that this art dates back to the pharaonic era? There are many arguments about the origin of this art, but what is historically agreed on is that the ancient Egyptians showed affection to embroidering on fabrics. Al Khayamia is an authentic Egyptian art that became outstanding in Egypt for a very long time. It could reach a number of centuries.

The real meaning of Al Khayamia:

The term Al Khayamia is derived from the word khayam (tent-making) which means manufacturing colored fabrics to make pavilions. It is done by embroidering on cotton fabrics by using a collection of bright colors and obvious threads.

Types of Khayamia:

There are many types of Al Khayamia but the most popular one is the handmade and that is preferred by foreigners tourists and wealthy Arabs. The handmade type is unique because of its beautiful and creative style and some handmade pieces are considered very rare due to their high expensive price. It could take a whole month to create a beautiful tent. Also, it requires a well skilled worker who has a great experience in order to come up with the best results and avoid doing mistakes.

An art not a profession:

The tent-maker Mahmoud Naguib stated that “Al Khayamia” is not only a profession but also an integral art that carries a lot of affection and creativity. He adds that the worker doesn’t start working to create a beautiful masterpiece tent until he tries his best to finish it same as the artist. That’s how every industry worker tries to add something special and creative in his own way without copying others but on the contrary, he adds and create new things every day.

To the one reading this article, remember when you visit Egypt to go to Al Hussein and Al Moez Street to feel the vibes of ancient Egyptians industries. Also, to buy one of the amazing Khayam or tents. Nowadays most people who had Al Khayamia as their profession are unemployed because this was their only handicraft. In order to save Al Khayamia industry from being buried and extinct, you can buy one of the stunning and bright colored tent as a souvenir.

https://youtu.be/GqyoJw2vOKQ