Following a successful inaugural year that brought together over 200 participants in a celebration and exploration of Qatari artistry and Islamic crafts, the Herfah program – a collaboration between Qatar Foundation and The King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts – will launch its second year in September 2025.

The immersive, year-long program will run from 8am to 2pm every Sunday to Thursday from September 2025 to May 2026, at the historic Al Khater House in Education City. Submissions will be open from 8 July to 8 August, and interested candidates can apply and find more information at educationcity.qa/herfah-al-khater-house

Herfah’s full-time curriculum is organized into three comprehensive terms, with Term 1, held from September to December across 13 weeks, beginning with six weeks of Foundational Modules in Islamic Geometry, Nabati Ornamentation, Drawing for Designers, and Traditional Painting, followed by seven weeks of focused Craft Modules.

Term 2, held from January to March 2026 for nine weeks, will incorporate two additional weeks of foundational studies, followed by in-depth exploration of traditional crafts such as Ceramics, Woodwork, Textiles, Gypsum Carving, and Decorative Painting. Term 3, taking place across nine weeks from April to May 2026, will be dedicated to final projects that combine the skills and knowledge participants have acquired throughout the year.

Interested candidates must be 18 years or older and have prior experience in crafts. They must also complete an online registration form by submitting a personal statement and an assignment titled ‘Inspired by Tradition’, and include a portfolio showcasing previous creative work – which is optional, but encouraged.

Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interviews, with final selections announced by end of August 2025.

In addition to its core year-long program, Herfah will continue offering short-term courses and Ramadan workshops, fostering a dynamic, creative, and inclusive space for community learning at Al Khater House.