Our History
The Mansoojat Foundation is a UK registered charity founded by a group of Saudi women with a passionate interest in the traditional ethnic textiles and costumes of Arabia.
The Mansoojat Foundation is a nonprofit organisation dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich textile heritage of Saudi Arabia. Established in 2002, the Foundation’s mission is to document, conserve, and raise awareness about the traditional costumes and textiles of the various regions and tribes within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The Mansoojat Foundation was founded by a group of passionate individuals. Recognizing the urgent need to preserve the disappearing textile traditions of Saudi Arabia, they embarked on a mission to collect and document these cultural artefacts. The foundation’s name, “Mansoojat,” is derived from the Arabic word for “textiles” or “clothing,” reflecting its primary focus.
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Explore & Discover
Hijaz boys’ two piece embroidered velvet suit
Hijaz, Western Region Hijaz boys' two piece embroidered velvet suit dating to c.1930. This style was restricted for the use of young boys. The Ka‘bah at Makkah (first established at the time of the prophet Abraham) is for Muslims the “Bait Allah” or “House of God”. It is the most sacred spot on Earth, and, with Mount Arafat a few[...]
Hijaz outfit
Hijaz, Western Region Hijaz outfit comprising the inner silk zaboon under the fine organza thobe. Casual day outfits were made in the same way except that the fabric was plain or printed cotton. The Ka‘bah at Makkah (first established at the time of the prophet Abraham) is for Muslims the “Bait Allah” or “House of God”. It is the most[...]
Najd, Central Region and Eastern Region thobe of fine Indian silk
Najd and Central Region Najd, Central Region and Eastern Region thobe of fine Indian silk embroidered with sequins and gold thread. The sleeves are voluminous and are brought around to cover the head. Central Saudi Arabia, or Najd, is a land of desert, escarpment and oases. Traditionally, this region has been populated by nomadic herders and settled farmers. Tribal affiliation[...]
Qassim thick wool woman’s aba
Qassim, Northern Region Qassim thick wool woman's aba (cloak) embroidered with gold thread and having elaborate gold thread tassels. This type of aba is for the bride to wear on her wedding night. The mountains of Jabal Shammar shield northern Najd from the sands of the Great Nafud desert. Grazing is good and the area was famed for its Arabian[...]