Hasawi Bisht: From Local Tradition to International Star
- Abida Ahmad
- Jan 8
- 3 min read
Dammam, Saudi Arabia, January 8, 2025—The Al-Ahsa region, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and diverse industries, has become a global symbol of traditional crafts, particularly in the weaving and tailoring of Hasawi Bisht. A distinguished garment with profound historical and social significance, the Hasawi Bisht has not only gained popularity locally but has also become a symbol of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the broader Arab world on international platforms. Known for its exceptional craftsmanship, quality, and exquisite embroidery, this traditional garment continues to symbolize elegance and prestige in Arab countries and beyond.
Once primarily worn at local and Gulf events, the khawwas bisht has now gained international prominence, frequently appearing at Arab and international gatherings, and is beloved by dignitaries, elites, officials, and business leaders. What makes this garment particularly respected is not only its timeless design but also the rich cultural heritage it embodies. The hasavibishti is regarded as a symbol of wealth, status, and tradition, making it a highly sought-after garment for high-end events and formal occasions.
The unique charm of the hasawi bisht is also reflected in the diverse preferences of its wearers. People choose their bisht based on various factors, such as color, fabric type, and season. In the cold months, dark fabrics are very popular, while in warm weather, people prefer lighter materials. These garments are usually adorned with intricate silk threads and gold and silver zari embroidery, featuring vibrant colors, including various shades of yellow, red, and white. The popular colors of Pashmina include beige, white, brown, and black, which maintain their timeless charm and demand throughout the year.
Despite the machine-made versions of the bisht, the traditional handmade ones still have a strong market demand, renowned for their unparalleled quality and attention to detail. Several families in the region are renowned for their craftsmanship in making these garments, ensuring that each bisht is meticulously designed and embroidered. The craftsmanship of these handmade bishts requires considerable skill and patience, with particular emphasis on the intricate embroidery of the design, shape, and decorative fabrics.
The pricing of Hasawi bisht varies greatly due to several factors, including craftsmanship, fabric quality, and the type of zari used. High-end bishts are usually made from high-quality fabrics, such as those from Japan or Kashmir, and German gold thread adds to the complexity of the embroidery. The fabric is usually woven in Saudi Arabia, Syria, and Jordan, with more affordable options recently imported from China and India. The quality of the materials directly affects the price, with more luxurious bishts being more expensive.
The process of making a hasawi bisht is very labor-intensive, especially in the decoration of the garments. The wide section decorated with gold thread (karmuk) requires 14 days of hand sewing, while modern machines can complete this task in just two hours. This difference in time and effort enhances the cultural value and prestige of the hand-made bisht, which remains a symbol of fine art and traditional craftsmanship.
With the growing demand for the hasawi bisht, this iconic garment not only remains an important part of Saudi Arabian cultural identity but also plays a significant role in preserving traditional craftsmanship while adapting to modern tastes and markets. Whether worn by elites at formal occasions or by cultural enthusiasts at special events, the Hasawi Bisht remains a powerful symbol of Saudi heritage, combining timeless elegance with a rich history of art and craftsmanship.
