Banan’s Journey with the Saudi Handicraft

“Banan” – A Creative Identity Connecting Saudi Handicrafts to Future Generations

Banan is a unique intellectual property initiative launched by the Handicrafts Sector at the Heritage Commission in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is a friendly cartoon character designed to make traditional crafts accessible and engaging to children, fostering a lasting connection between younger generations and their cultural heritage.

The name Banan is inspired by the Arabic word “banan”, which refers to fingertips—symbolizing the handcrafted nature of traditional crafts. It is also inspired by the song “Banan,” performed during World Handicrafts Week, adding emotional and cultural depth to the character.

Banan embodies three core themes: craftsmanship, discovery, and imagination. As both a visual identity and an educational tool, the character invites children to explore Saudi handicrafts in a playful, age-appropriate way. Through her adventures, the initiative nurtures appreciation for the richness of local crafts and their vital role in shaping national identity.

Each time Banan discovers a new craft, she wears the traditional attire of the region it originates from. This highlights the cultural diversity of the Kingdom, where each region differs in its crafts, decorations, and clothing. From the intricate techniques of the north to the vibrant styles of the south, Banan introduces children to the Kingdom’s heritage through immersive storytelling.

Beyond her visual presence, Banan stars in a children’s illustrated story series. The narrative follows a young girl named Banan, who inherits her love for crafts from her grandmother. As she embarks on her journey, magical creatures appear to help her understand each craft.

In the first story, Banan learns the weaving technique of Sadu with help from her woolen friend Safsaf, whose name comes from the classical Arabic word for wool.

Each journey ends with the phrase:

“That’s how Banan learned that traditional crafts are a big part of her country, and every region in Saudi Arabia has its own special craft. Her journey of discovering these crafts had just begun.”

Through storytelling, Banan bridges heritage and imagination—preserving Saudi Arabia’s handicrafts for generations to come.