Faisal, Emir of Makkah, is scheduled to discuss Tuesday plans for the Kingdom's first “handicraft village” to be located in Jeddah. Regional head of the Hirafiyah Handicraft Charity Ahmad Hashim and board members will give Prince Khaled an overview of the project which is part of plans to tackle poverty and unemployment. Hashim said the village followed the charity's training centers and would add a “distinctive” feature to the city. “It will also change the negative image of handicrafts and present them as a viable source of income,” Hashim said. The location of the village is yet to be identified, but it will occupy an area of at least 10,000 sq. meters and host several markets, with each zone constructed in a style reflecting the handicraft practiced in it. “The village will also have services areas, lawns, footpaths, motels, restaurants and coffee shops, playgrounds, and a handicraft training center and production zone,” Hashim added. The training center is expected to qualify 600 craftsmen and women and help 1,400 needy and unemployed persons on an annual basis. The Handicraft Charity, Hashim said, is working with the Mayor's Office to find a suitable location.
