Introduction to Diwani Calligraphy – First Semester (Online)

Fundamentals of Diwani Script

Overview of Diwani Script

Diwani script is one of the Ottoman-origin styles of Arabic calligraphy that experienced great expansion and flourishing from its inception to the present day. Inspired by the Riqʿa script—used in official transactions within Ottoman state institutions—Diwani eventually acquired its own prestige and was named after the Ottoman Sultan’s Diwan (the administrative bureau), where it was employed in royal and official correspondence.

In this course, participants will be introduced to Diwani script through practical demonstrations, along with historical references and examples from the works of master calligraphers, highlighting the precision and artistry with which they executed this script.

Diwani script is celebrated for its elegance and fluidity, with flexible, graceful forms characterized by circular and interconnected shapes. Interestingly, some letters may appear visually similar despite being distinct, such as alif (ا) and lam (ل) at the beginning of a word.

Calligraphers often connect letters that are normally written separately—such as ra (ر), waw (و), alif (ا), and dal (د)—to create added fluidity and beauty. At times, letters may deviate slightly from strict rules, but these variations enhance rather than diminish the aesthetic charm of the script, adding sophistication and innovation.

Learning Outcomes:

• Gain comprehensive knowledge of Diwani script.
• Enable beginners to embark confidently on learning this art.
• Produce applied artistic works in Diwani script.
• Ensure tangible progress for each participant by the end of the course.

Learning Objectives:

• Introduce participants to the historical and artistic significance of Diwani script.
• Provide hands-on experience in writing Diwani script.
• Involve all participants in active learning and discussion.
• Practical writing training under the direct supervision of the instructor.
• Learn the best practices for using calligraphy tools.
• Experiment with mixing different ink colors to produce aesthetic effects.
• Create opportunities for networking and exchange of experience through art.

Course Schedule

Course Days:
 الثلاثاء والخميس، من الساعة 6:00 مساءً حتى 7:30 مساءً – إبتداً من تاريخ 7 اكتوبر
عدد الأيام:  مجموع 32 يوم تدريسي
إجمالي عدد الساعات: 48 ساعة تعليمية
20 درهم لكل ساعة – إجمالي الدورة: 960 درهم
Frequency: Twice a week

Course Language:

Arabic and English

Course Platform

Online via Zoom

Certificate

Participants must attend at least 90% of the total course hours to receive a certified Certificate of Attendance from the School of Calligraphy and Ornamentation.

Terms and Conditions

• Online participants are required to provide their own materials: paper, tracing paper, pencil, gouache and watercolor paints, and fine brushes.
• Your fee covers all study hours for the full in-person program
• Fees are non-refundable under any circumstances
• Attendance at the dates specified on this page is mandatory
• Please note that no make-up sessions are available

Instructor: Sarah Abedi

Sarah Abedi is a professional Arabic calligraphy artist who has been practising since 2016. She has conducted numerous workshops inside and outside the UAE and has won several local and international awards, most notably the IRCICA Award (2025). She is also the founder of Abedi, a store specialising in the sale of Arabic calligraphy tools and materials. Sarah has exhibited her work in both national and international exhibitions. Her teaching style is contemporary and engaging, presenting Arabic calligraphy in an accessible and interactive way. She is dedicated to blending tradition with modern creativity in all her courses.