Bait Al Khatt is a dedicated space for Arabic calligraphy. Its home is the Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation, which was founded in 1981 and is set on the capital's oldest historical site, Qasr Al Hosn.
In addition to its history, the site offers numerous workshops, events and classes, including one on traditional Arabic calligraphy. It is open to residents and visitors and led by artist and calligrapher Mohamed Mandi. The centre provides comprehensive training from A to Z for each chosen calligraphy type, which typically consists of 12 lessons.
“Teaching calligraphy benefits the instructor as it helps to reinforce the rules of calligraphy and spreads awareness about the practice of calligraphy art," Mandi, an Emirati teacher at Cultural Foundation Qasr Al Hosn for Calligraphy, tells The National.
"The goal is to ensure that calligraphy is preserved and practised in the Arab world, because it originally originated from this region. Crucially, there needs to be collaboration between the Ministry of Education and the Department of Culture and Tourism to introduce calligraphy education to the new generation."
The programme is open to beginners, intermediates and even professionals, and combines theoretical and practical learning to foster the growth of Arabic calligraphy.
“Unfortunately, there are no longer writing classes, calligraphy pencils, or chalkboards in schools. It is my hope that a dedicated effort will be made to inspire a new generation interested in this refined art form," Mandisays.
“The calligrapher must rely on three fundamental elements: love for the art, patience, and consistent practice."
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RESULTS
West Asia Premiership
Thursday
Jebel Ali Dragons 13-34 Dubai Exiles
Friday
Dubai Knights Eagles 16-27 Dubai Tigers
THE SPECS
Engine: 1.6-litre turbo
Transmission: six-speed automatic
Power: 165hp
Torque: 240Nm
Price: From Dh89,000 (Enjoy), Dh99,900 (Innovation)
On sale: Now
The%20specs
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Know before you go
- Jebel Akhdar is a two-hour drive from Muscat airport or a six-hour drive from Dubai. It’s impossible to visit by car unless you have a 4x4. Phone ahead to the hotel to arrange a transfer.
- If you’re driving, make sure your insurance covers Oman.
- By air: Budget airlines Air Arabia, Flydubai and SalamAir offer direct routes to Muscat from the UAE.
- Tourists from the Emirates (UAE nationals not included) must apply for an Omani visa online before arrival at evisa.rop.gov.om. The process typically takes several days.
- Flash floods are probable due to the terrain and a lack of drainage. Always check the weather before venturing into any canyons or other remote areas and identify a plan of escape that includes high ground, shelter and parking where your car won’t be overtaken by sudden downpours.
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The specs
Engine: 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6
Power: 540hp at 6,500rpm
Torque: 600Nm at 2,500rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed auto
Kerb weight: 1580kg
Price: From Dh750k
On sale: via special order
Dust and sand storms compared
Sand storm
- Particle size: Larger, heavier sand grains
- Visibility: Often dramatic with thick "walls" of sand
- Duration: Short-lived, typically localised
- Travel distance: Limited
- Source: Open desert areas with strong winds
Dust storm
- Particle size: Much finer, lightweight particles
- Visibility: Hazy skies but less intense
- Duration: Can linger for days
- Travel distance: Long-range, up to thousands of kilometres
- Source: Can be carried from distant regions
Tewellah by Nawal Zoghbi is out now.
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What are the influencer academy modules?
- Mastery of audio-visual content creation.
- Cinematography, shots and movement.
- All aspects of post-production.
- Emerging technologies and VFX with AI and CGI.
- Understanding of marketing objectives and audience engagement.
- Tourism industry knowledge.
- Professional ethics.
Match info
Uefa Champions League Group F
Manchester City v Hoffenheim, midnight (Wednesday, UAE)
Pad Man
Dir: R Balki
Starring: Akshay Kumar, Sonam Kapoor, Radhika Apte
Three-and-a-half stars
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
GIANT REVIEW
Starring: Amir El-Masry, Pierce Brosnan
Director: Athale
Rating: 4/5
