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.
Recent Articles
Explore & Discover
Hijaz white burqu
Hijaz, Western Region Hijaz white burqu (face mask) of fine gauze which is heavily starched. It is embroidered along the front and comes with different floral motifs and in varying lengths. 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[...]
Hijaz milayah wrap
Hijaz, Western Region Hijaz milayah large rectangular wrap worn to go out. It is made of two panels with decorative bands and tassels along the edge. The silk fabric was either imported from India or Indonesia. 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[...]
Hijaz ensemble
Hijaz, Western Region Hijaz ensemble with the inner fitted zaboon embroidered in a floral design with gold thread and small sequins. The outer thobe is made of a sheer linen-like fabric. 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[...]
Hijaz boys’ fine silk velvet coat
Hijaz, Western Region Hijaz boys' fine silk velvet coat embroidered with sequins and gold thread. This type of garment was worn for traditional festivities. 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[...]