Tabuk, February 2, 2025 – The Tabuk region is a place steeped in rich history and culture, where the authentic traditions and folk heritage of its people have endured for generations. Among the many elements that make the region unique, its folk heritage plays a fundamental role in shaping Saudi Arabia’s national identity. One of the most notable aspects of this heritage is the remarkable ingenuity displayed by the people of Tabuk, particularly in their ability to recycle and repurpose materials for practical use.
A prime example of this resourcefulness is Al-Muzfar, a traditional carrying cradle that was once a vital part of daily life for the women of the Tabuk desert and its governorates. Al-Muzfar is a distinctive piece of local heritage, demonstrating not only the practical needs of the community but also the artistic and functional craftsmanship passed down through generations.
Typically crafted from animal hides, Al-Muzfar is designed as a rectangular piece of tanned leather or robust linen, supported by wooden sticks at either end. Its innovative design includes woven fabric holders made from sadu, a traditional textile that has long been used by the people of the Arabian Peninsula, or twisted cloth, which allowed women to easily carry their infants while managing daily household chores. The cradle could be comfortably placed on a woman’s shoulders or head, offering both mobility and practicality, vital in the desert environment where mothers were constantly on the move.
In an interview with the Saudi Press Agency, Fatima Al-Huwaiti, an elderly resident from the Haql Governorate, reflected on the deep historical significance of Al-Muzfar. "It is a relic of our past, now cherished in folk museums. It reminds us of a time deeply ingrained in history. It was an essential part of our culture and a practical tool for mothers in their daily lives," she shared.
Traditionally made from tanned sheepskin, with cloth sometimes used as an alternative, Al-Muzfar was often white, a choice that provided much-needed shade for infants during the scorching desert heat. The cradle’s design ensured that the baby’s head was well-supported, providing both comfort and safety. It is a testament to the resourcefulness and ingenuity of the people of Tabuk, who used the materials available to them to create an object that served not only as a means of transportation but as a protective, functional piece of everyday life.
While modern technology and conveniences have provided today’s families with a wider range of safer and more comfortable options for carrying children, the legacy of Al-Muzfar endures as a poignant reminder of the resilience and adaptability of the people of Tabuk. This cultural artifact symbolizes the strength of Saudi Arabia’s traditions and the lasting bond between the people of the region and their heritage.
Today, Al-Muzfar is not only a cherished relic of the past but also an important feature in folk museums, where it continues to tell the story of the ingenuity and resourcefulness that has shaped the lives of the people of the Tabuk region for centuries. It is a testament to the enduring power of cultural heritage and its ability to connect generations, preserving the essence of a community’s identity for years to come.
