In the UAE, the exhibition «Hdub Al-Zari» is currently being held, dedicated to the traditional male garment, the Bisht. This exhibition is part of the annual «Al-Hisn» Festival, organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi.
The Bisht was not merely a traditional piece of clothing for the leaders of the Emirates; it was a symbol of dignity, responsibility, and commitment. It was associated with councils, decision-making venues, and being present alongside leadership during pivotal moments in the nation's history, especially before the union's formation and at the state's inception. Dr. Aisha bint Buti bin Busher, the daughter of the late figure, noted that her father, Buti bin Busher, preferred a light brown Bisht, a color that reflects composure, balance, and closeness to the people. The black Bisht was worn at major official council events, signifying the majesty and status linked to responsibility.
The exhibition is an artistic canvas where different threads and embroidery patterns intertwine, narrating a story of taste and authenticity. The Bisht has always been linked to Friday visits, holidays, weddings, and meetings with sheikhs and dignitaries. The black color is a symbol of grandeur and is worn at official national celebrations, while brown and camel colors are used in daily life.
The exhibition includes a section showcasing a collection of Bishts from prominent Emirati personalities. Among them is the Bisht of the late Buti bin Busher, a companion of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, dating back to the 1980s. These exhibits tell personal stories, reflecting the Bisht's role in moments of pride, celebration, and identity formation. Thus, the Bisht and the Burqa are more than just traditional symbols; they are a mirror to history and a renewed spirit that illuminates the features of Emirati identity.
