Minister of State and President of Qatar National Library H E Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kuwari (left), Former Minister of Energy and Industry H E Dr Mohamed bin Saleh Al Sada (right), and General Manager of Cultural Village Foundation (Katara) Dr. Khalid
Doha: Qatar’s centuries-old maritime tradition is palpable at the Katara Traditional Dhow Festival which opened yesterday on a high note, marking a successful decade of reviving the country’s marine heritage.
The Minister of State and President of Qatar National Library H E Dr. Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kuwari, Former Minister of Energy and Industry H E Dr Mohamed bin Saleh Al Sada, and General Manager of Cultural Village Foundation (Katara) Dr. Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, along with ambassadors and other dignitaries attended the opening of the festival yesterday.
From land to sea, the festival teems with a diverse showcase of different types of dhows, traditional marine handicrafts and artworks along with performances and competitions, altogether resulting to an ambience reminiscent of the country’s rich past anchored on its close relationship with the sea shared with other countries taking part in the festival including Kuwait, Oman, Iraq, India, and Tanzania.
“The festival has reached the hearts and souls of visitors and heritage lovers which include citizens and residents of all nationalities of Qatar. This festival through heritage, history and story-telling brings folklore alive to the people through the distinctive activities that also contribute to the spread of culture as well as reflecting contemporary generations,” said Dr. Al Sulaiti.
He stressed how the festival plays a significant role in creating a bond between old and new generations through culture and heritage as well as displaying Qatar’s and other participating countries’ maritime heritage.
The festival is being held following all precautionary and safety measures in accordance with Ministry of Public Health protocols to fight the spread of COVID-19, he said.
Visitors to the festival can witness a number of distinct features and activities related to pearl diving and fishing tradition.
As with previous editions, a major highlight of the festival is an impressive collection of traditional dhows which can be seen at Katara Esplanade, on the beach and in the sea.
Visitors can also witness various workshops showcasing the process of building dhows and ancient crafts as well as live painting by a number of local artists. There are pavilions displaying traditional handicrafts such as pottery, fishing and pearl diving tools in addition to a fish market.
Among the entertaining activities are storytelling, traditional stage shows and performances including by an Omani folk band, in addition to a number of exciting marine competitions such as Al Shoush, Al Haddaq and Al Tafris.
The festival is open to the public today, tomorrow and on Saturday from 10am to 10pm and on Friday from 1pm to 11pm.
