In the sweeping sands of the Saudi Arabian desert, the iconic structure known as “Bayt al-sha’ar” or the house of hair, stands proudly as a beacon of Arab culture. These Bedouin tents, once a necessity for nomadic life, now adorn the outdoor spaces of many residences throughout the kingdom, symbolizing a deep connection to heritage and community.
These tents have become increasingly popular for outdoor social events and gatherings, particularly during the cooler winter months. A specialist in the art of creating and maintaining these tents from the King Abdulaziz Women’s Society for Social Development in the Al-Jouf Region, Um Najeh, notes a surge in demand. She explains that the cost of a tent can vary widely based on the materials used, interior and exterior designs, and additional features like fireplaces and decorative elements.
Bearing the UNESCO designation of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 2020, the Bayt al-sha’ar is crafted using the ancient Al Sadu weaving technique. Made from the hair of goats and sheep, these tents are designed to withstand the harsh desert climate, offering protection from cold, heat, and sandstorms.
Um Najeh describes the versatility of these tents, with some featuring all four sides enclosed, while others are open to invite in the desert breeze. The tents can have triangular or square roofs, supported by solid wooden poles, and anchored to the ground with wooden or iron pegs.
The creation of these enduring symbols of Bedouin culture is predominantly the work of women, who use an array of traditional tools to craft the tents from natural materials available in their environment. The construction process involves spinning hair into thread, cleaning the fibers, stitching the fabric, and securing the tent with tightly pulled ropes.
Whether upheld by a single pole or multiple ones, each Bedouin tent encapsulates the rich legacy of desert inhabitants and their profound connection to the land they call home.