Elegant. That is the first word that enters the mind when one observes an Arab man in his crisp, white national dress. His head-dress has also sparked much curiosity in all cultures and for ages, the sifrah and agaal have been viewed as the symbols of the Arab identity. For those who have wondered about the Arab dress, its history, culture, practicality and style, a picture book by young Emirati Ahmad Abdul Ghani Al Redha will help to answer many queries.
Since a young age, Al Redha was interested in writing. He took up creative writing at university.
A positive feedback from his professors encouraged him to
take it further. Writing a book of his own was something he had always dreamed of. When Al Redha heard about Magrudy's sister company Jerboa Books, a publisher of children's books which seeks to promote Arab culture, he decided to write a book about the Arab style of dress.
The Sifrah Glider is a children's picture book in which every aspect of Arab dress is explained. In the book, Western children ask the Emirati man called 'The Sifrah Glider' about his dress and he in turn explains the meanings behind the kandourah (white gown), the agaal, (black ring) and the sifrah (headdress). The book is written in simple but lucid verse
and presented with colourful illustrations which will appeal to the younger generation. Al Redha believes that his book will also be beneficial to Arab children as it will help them learn about their own culture. Even non-Arab children and older people who are curious about Arab dress can learn from it.
"The idea," says Al Redha, "was to portray the typical Arab national in a way that would alleviate misconceptions about the Middle East and Arabs. A lot of people from the West have predisposed notions about Arabs. Depicting a UAE national who is a cheerful and jovial hero will help to show people that Arabs are likeable and friendly."
While finding a publishing company was easy, acquiring sponsors was another matter altogether. Al Redha finally found generous support from the Bin Hendi Group and Al Yaquob Group. "Without their support, the publishing of this book would have been impossible," says Al Redha.
Asked what the future holds and whether he plans to write more children's books, Al Redha says he will play the waiting game. "I will see what the response is to my first venture.
If there is a demand for more books in a similar vein, of course I would love to continue writing," he says.
– Mehmudah Rehman is a Dubai-based freelancer.
