Camel Sandals

   Sandal making is one of the last remaining traditional industries in Hebron. The famous sandal production has been part of a strong industry of shoe making In Hebron, which holds most of the tanneries in Palestine. Historically, these tanneries were at their peak of production when Hebron was on the silk trade route. Now, it is a dying industry and is mainly used for shoe and bag making The shoe and sandal industry that has been the pride of the Hebronite industry is experiencing a strong competition from cheap imported products flooding the market. Although the local sandals and shoes are much more durable and of better quality leather, the local market is declining and most of the products are sold to tourists, especially in Jerusalem and Bethlehem, where they are unfortunately sold under Israeli brand names.

   The Za’tari family has been in the business for decades and has been producing unique and high-quality leather sandals and shoes made out of local cow and sheep skins. They inherited the business from their forefathers and continue to produce leather products with the unique camel stamp which we have all become familiar of since decades. If you’re walking in the alleyways of the old city of Jerusalem, Bethlehem or Ramallah, it is hard to miss these trademark products.

   Today, with the lack of stringent environmental regulations and the inadequate wastewater treatment systems, the tanneries have unfortunately become problematic on an environmental level. The process of production is highly dependent on imported chemicals. Moreover, without strict regulations on water treatment, the tanneries are causing negative environmental impacts in terms of pollution of waterways and groundwater resources. In order for such an industry to become environmentally safe, a reallocation of existing tanneries and a long-term plan for proper wastewater treatment should be put in place.

   Despite these conditions, the Za’tari family continues to ensure their products are all handmade and that they use the highest quality leather available. The family continues innovating with new lines of products and a wide array of colours and designs. Sandal making in Hebron is a trademark industry that continues to gather local, national and international fame!

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Product Selling Points: on location.