COVID-19 pandemic may have caused several business losses, but despite that, the digital realm kept most of it going, keeping everyone in connection. In the same way, the digital sector has come as a boon to the Saudi Arabian artists, as a new platform has been launched to endorse their work.

The new digital marketplace—Al Bon has been launched in Saudi Arabia that allows the artists to showcase their carefully curated creations that have been handmade to the world. This allows people from all over the world to access their artwork.

The online platform highlights the history and techniques of some of the hidden regional gems, wherein, design enthusiasts have access to a variety of handicrafts ranging from furniture, artwork, and tabletops to lighting, fashion pieces, and gifts made by local artisans.

“Al Bon was created to help preserve Arab craftsmanship and highlight the diverse talent in our community. By bringing attention to the region’s craft traditions and heritage, our goal is that the Al Bon marketplace will make it easier for customers to find these independent brands and to discover the stories behind each artist and designer. We hand select every piece with the hope that shoppers enjoy not only the beauty of each item but also discover something new about this enchanting part of the world,” read a statement by the founder of the innovative new site.

Various creatives by regional artists are available on the Al Bon site including works by Saudi artist Noura Bouzo, who creates miniature paintings from historical manuscripts on ceramic plates and hand-painted wood trays from 14th-century 8-point star mosque tiles, and a self-taught painter Faisal AlKheriji, who combines Cubism and Surrealism with ever-present touches of Saudi culture.

The word ‘Al Bon’ translates to ‘Gap between two objects’ in Arabic and is also a phrase that is used worldwide to refer to excellence and perfection.

The online platform not just showcases Arab heritage and cultural arts, but also looks towards preserving local heritage, thus helping Arab businesses, families, and non-profit organisations to thrive in their immediate communities as well as global markets.

To spread the finest of Arabian art to the world, the e-commerce platform handpicks artisans from the UAE, Bahrain, Egypt, Lebanon, Iraq, Morocco, and Syria, with more being added every day.