Desert Tent

Description

The school will be supported by the economy based on the Desert Tent.  This large woven semi-circular Bedouin tent in the centre of the complex will provide a unique and welcoming space for local festivals such as a camel festival or wedding.  It will also be used by tourists interested in visiting the nearby Nawamis Burial Chambers, which date from the time of the Biblical Exodus.  The tent will be made from locally gathered camel and goat hair and woven by the Bedouin women. 

A superior kitchen is part of the scheme and visitors will be able to rest in the shade, have a meal or a drink and watch the Bedouin women weaving. Traditional handicrafts such as the silk, beaded sugar bags will be on display. Behind the school and tent complex there will be a camel station where the tourists will be able to take a short journey to Nawamis and around the desert landscape or an exploratory ride in the desert. An annual camel festival will be held here, helping to preserve a traditional and much valued part of Bedouin life.  

All the buildings are made of the local stone, blending attractively into the stunning desert landscape 

Purpose

The purpose of the Desert Tent is to raise the economy of the area providing sufficient revenue to support the school.  

Beneficiaries

The children will be able to attend their own local school. The women will be able to earn through the revival of the weaving trade. The men will earn through the hire of their camels and the increase in visitor numbers to the area. 

Project Work

Much good practical work at the site alongside local builders has been done by various Makhad Trust groups from the UK including Leeds Met students. The Makhad Trust will now set up the management systems capable of running the scheme. 

Partners

The Nawamis villagers.

Status

It is anticipated that the site will be opened for visitors by December 2009.

spinning wool for weaving
the Nawamis complex