by Nour Salman AL AIN, (Pakistan Point News - 24th Apr, 2019) The UAE’s traditional dagger, embossed with Arabian tradition and culture, reflects the aesthetics of the Emirati man, symbolising pride and power while harnessing intricate decorative prowess.
"Khanjar" is the common word that is used to describe the traditional dagger. The curved, "J" letter-shaped dagger is believed to have its origins in Oman.
For the UAE, the khanjar has a long and rich history. It was once used for personal protection and as a tool for hunting and is also considered as a symbol for manhood.
The oldest photograph of the dagger in the UAE dates back to 1904, in which it appears to be worn by Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, ‘Zayed the Great’. A video in 1937 shows the Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum adorning the khanjar.
Abdulla Al Matroushi, founder of ‘Bayt Al Khanjar’, said that Emiratis are proud of their traditional dagger heritage, embossed with distinctive craftsmanship.
He explained that the dagger’s blade is made from high-quality iron that is attached to a hilt, typically made from ivory. However, these days, the making of traditional daggers complies with international conservation standards, where the use of ivory has been replaced with buffalo horn exported from India, Al Matroushi continued.
"The khanjar has a distinctive curved sheath that is attached to a woven textile belt. The sheath is made of soft leather, and is elaborately decorated in silver and gold," he added.
On display at Al Ain’s Qasr Al Muwaiji are intricate traditional daggers, made of gold and silver, some which date back to the 1960s.
The khanjar is one of the oldest weapons known to the Arabian Peninsula and the Levant.
