Alwaleed Philanthropies “Global” and Turquoise Mountain partner to support the Palestinian craft industry
Building on years of successful partnership, Alwaleed Philanthropies “Global”, chaired by HRH Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, and Turquoise Mountain are continuing collaborative work in Palestine, supporting traditional craftsmanship and partnering with local artisans to strengthen their businesses.
Supporting the Preservation of Endangered Crafts
The preservation of Palestinian crafts, many of which are severely endangered, is crucial. Crafts such as embroidery, glassblowing, stonemasonry, jewelry making, tile making and carpentry are a vital source of income for thousands of artisans, as well as an integral part of Palestinian cultural heritage.
"We have been working with Turquoise Mountain for over 20 years across several countries around the world, starting with Saudi Arabia and extending to Palestine, Afghanistan and Myanmar. Through this project we are partnering with talented craftspeople from across Palestine, contributing to the preservation of craft heritage and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship to stimulate the local economy," said HRH Princess Lamia bint Majed AlSaud, Secretary General of Alwaleed Philanthropies.
Shoshana Stewart, President of Turquoise Mountain, said: "We’re delighted to be working with so many talented Palestinian artisans, supporting local businesses and bringing their products to a wider audience."
Impact
The project, which began in 2023 and will run until 2026, has already demonstrated tangible results, with 373 artisans and craft workers benefiting to date. The team has collaborated with 20 artisanal workshops on commissions, product design and sales, and has launched mentorship and training programs in fashion design, business skills and e-commerce and branding.
Jalil Al-Ali, a master carpenter from Bethlehem with 33 years of experience, who began his journey in craft at the age of ten, learning from his father, told Turquoise Mountain: “These days in Palestine have been very dark and difficult. Many people have been without work, and the market for carpentry has dramatically decreased. This project has been very important to my business during this time and has enabled me to work using traditional, hand-made techniques that help me to keep my craft alive.”
Another key milestone in 2024 was completing the restoration of a new Craft Hub in Bethlehem, a heritage building which will serve as an incubation space for artisans, complete with materials library and training room. The restoration supported 45 local workers and generated more than $50,000 in income for artisanal workshops. The Craft Hub will officially open in spring 2025 but has already begun hosting pilot activities.
Looking Ahead
Alwaleed Philanthropies “Global” and Turquoise Mountain are committed to continuing our work with Palestinian craftspeople, celebrating their work and building towards a sustainable craft sector.
We will grow our work together – running networking, educational and cultural events for the artisanal community, as well as opening our new showroom for traditional crafts. We will collaborate with a further 20 artisanal workshops through production, sales development and other related support, focusing on expanding markets for artisans in the Gulf. In addition, we will work with 150 artisans through design training and business mentorship, introducing new products to the market and improving sales and marketing techniques.
