Before the discovery of oil, pearl diving was the cornerstone of economic life in the Arabian Gulf. It was a seasonal profession through which divers harvested pearls from the seabed, while the income generated from pearl trading provided essential daily necessities. Diving expeditions followed established seasonal schedules and traditional diving practices.
In cooperation with the Department of Culture and Information, Government of Sharjah, Emirates Post issued a commemorative stamp set highlighting the most important traditional tools used in pearl diving, preserving and celebrating an essential part of the UAE’s rich maritime heritage.
The collection features five stamps illustrating the principal pearl diving tools: Sea Rock, F’ttam (nose clip), Al Khabet (finger protector), Al Dayeen (basket), and Diver’s Outfit, reflecting the craftsmanship and traditions associated with the historic pearl diving profession.
The issue also introduced a limited-edition souvenir sheet, featuring half of a natural pearl individually mounted by hand on each souvenir sheet, making it a distinctive philatelic collectible that combines heritage with artistic value.
