Blind Saudi Craftsman Weaves Falconry Nets at Riyadh Exhibition

Saudi craftsman Khalaf Al-Otaibi is демонстрating falconry net-making at the Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition 2026 in Riyadh, using touch to work after losing his sight nine years ago. His appearance highlights how traditional crafts linked to hunting and falconry are being preserved and shown to visitors.

Why it matters: - Khalaf Al-Otaibi’s demonstration shows how a traditional trade can survive major life changes and still draw public attention. - The exhibition is using live craft demonstrations to spotlight skills tied to Saudi hunting and falconry heritage. - Al-Otaibi’s work also shows how craft knowledge can continue across generations through family training and hands-on practice.

What happened: - Khalaf Al-Otaibi is weaving falconry nets in front of visitors at the Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition 2026 in Riyadh. - Al-Otaibi has nearly 40 years of experience making nets. - He lost his sight nine years ago but continues to work by touch. - Al-Otaibi said, “We feel it.” - His son, Youssef Al-Otaibi, is working alongside him at the exhibition.

The details: - Al-Otaibi handles threads and knots by touch and follows the same net-making process he has used for decades. - He makes several kinds of hunting nets, including falconry nets, circular nets, and nets for pigeons and small birds. - Each type of net has a different purpose and a different production method. - Al-Otaibi learned the craft from his father and grandfather. - He has continued the work throughout his life, keeping a family skill connected to hunting and falconry. - The exhibition includes traditional crafts and gives visitors a chance to watch craftspeople at work.

Between the lines: - Al-Otaibi’s presence turns the exhibition into more than a display of equipment and birds. - The demonstration frames falconry as a living cultural practice, not just a hobby or sport. - His son’s participation suggests the craft is still being passed down, even as the older generation adapts to age and disability.

What's next: - Visitors at the Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition 2026 will continue to see traditional crafts demonstrated live. - Al-Otaibi and his son are likely to remain part of the exhibition’s broader effort to present heritage skills to the public.

The bottom line: - Al-Otaibi’s net weaving shows how memory, touch and family apprenticeship can keep an old craft alive.