Nakhuda

A Nakhuda was the captain of a pearling boat operating in the Persian Gulf, primarily sailing from regions such as Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates (then known as the Trucial States). These vessels typically carried a crew that included an assistant Mijadimi, a singer Nahham, eight divers Ghais, ten haulers Saib, and a cook Jallas. Larger boats might also include a Muttawa to lead prayers. The ships ranged in size from small Banoosh vessels to the 100-foot Jalboot, with the latter being a term derived from the English "jollyboat." The pearling trade was highly lucrative, with revenues around £1,434,000 at the turn of the 19th century, plus an additional £30,439 from mother-of-pearl. By the early 20th century, Lorimer recorded 1,200 boats involved in the trade across the Trucial States, each crewed by approximately 18 people. The Nakhuda was responsible for selecting dive locations and selling the catch. The sailing dates to the oyster banks and the voyage duration were determined by the port's fleet admiral, appointed by the Ruler. Pearling work was dangerous and physically demanding, with divers making up to 60 dives daily. After collecting the catch, the Nakhuda oversaw the opening of oysters, weighed and recorded the pearls, and set aside exceptional ones for individual sale. During the pearling season, which lasted from June to September (120 days), the Nakhuda also acted as the fleet leader, coordinating aid for boats in distress and leading the return voyage. Additionally, there was a shorter "cold dive" season ...