

Representative ListInscribed 2024Description
Semsemiah is a popular harp-like instrument that is crafted and played among communities in the Suez Canal region. The body is attached to three wooden poles that form a triangle. The instrument is usually crafted by the players themselves, using natural or recycled materials such as wood or metal. The semsemiah is used by singers, musicians, composers, sailors (in Saudi Arabia), fishermen, and ship traders (in Egypt). It is featured in concerts, holidays, weddings, football matches and cultural festivals. Players and craftspeople include people of all ages, genders, backgrounds and abilities. The skills of crafting and playing the instrument are usually transmitted informally, within families and communities, or through bands, master players, practitioners and craftspeople. Semsemiah playing and crafting is taught from an early age, starting at about eight years. In Egypt, the practice is also transmitted formally through workshops and training courses in certain educational institutes. In Saudi Arabia, the internet and social media have become popular means of transmission. An important means of expression, the semsemiah is closely associated with the sea and is present on fishing boats for entertainment. The music enhances peace and social cohesion through communal gatherings that include people from all social classes.
Countries & Communities
Egypt
Saudi ArabiaOther heritage elements in Egypt
Representative List · Inscribed 2025Koshary, daily life dish and practices associated with itRepresentative List · Inscribed 2024Henna: rituals, aesthetic and social practicesRepresentative List · Inscribed 2023Arts, skills and practices associated with engraving on metals (gold, silver and copper)Representative List · Inscribed 2022Date palm, knowledge, skills, traditions and practicesRepresentative List · Inscribed 2022Festivals related to the Journey of the Holy family in EgyptRepresentative List · Inscribed 2021Arabic calligraphy: knowledge, skills and practices
More Representative List elements
Inscribed 2019Khorazm dance, LazgiInscribed 2015Majlis, a cultural and social spaceInscribed 2020Nar Bayrami, traditional pomegranate festivity and cultureInscribed 2013Traditional art of Jamdani weavingInscribed 2023Dabkeh, traditional dance in PalestineInscribed 2017Kushtdepdi rite of singing and dancing
Also inscribed in 2024
- Henna: rituals, aesthetic and social practices
- Art of crafting and playing rubab/rabab
- Tandir craftsmanship and bread baking in Azerbaijan
- Kebaya: knowledge, skills, traditions and practices
- Breakfast culture in Malaysia: dining experience in a multi-ethnic society
- Myanmar traditional New Year Atā Thingyan festival
Data Source: UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage · UNESCO listing