Category: News EN

The activities of the National Day 2024, held by the Ministry of Culture at the permanent headquarters of Darb Al-Saai in um Salal, continued from 10 to 21 December.

Darb Al-Saai witnessed a large public presence yesterday, as families of citizens and residents flocked from the beginning of the activities at three in the afternoon and continued until their conclusion at eleven in the evening.

The children contributed to creating an atmosphere of overwhelming joy in Darb Al-Saai, where families were keen to accompany their children, wearing traditional and military national costumes, to participate in various events, activities, and competitions, and enjoy the national atmosphere that spread throughout Darb Al-Saai.

 

Children add joy.

A number of parents who attended Darb Al-Saai with their children confirmed that the children’s strong attendance in this year’s activities added a special luster, due to the joy and vitality they made, which expressed hope for the bright future of the State of Qatar, as they were keen to participate in various activities that included traditional games, interactive experiences and educational workshops that enhance awareness of heritage, develop connection with the homeland, in addition to their participation in competitions and games that ignite their enthusiasm and bring joy and pleasure to their hearts.

 

Mohammed Al-Suhaiqi: National values in a fun way for children

Mohammed Al-Suhaiqi, a parent, stressed the importance of taking children to Darb Al-Saai activities to introduce them to Qatari heritage and national values in a fun way. “Darb Al Saai is an educational platform that allows children to learn about their heritage and enhance their sense of pride and belonging,” he said.

He pointed out that activities such as handicrafts and equestrian shows develop a love of creativity and teamwork, adding: “Seeing my children enjoy coloring heritage products and interacting with the atmosphere confirmed the importance of such events.

Al-Suhaiqi expressed his appreciation for the efforts made to provide a safe and enjoyable atmosphere for children, saying: “The presence of activities directed at all age groups contributes to providing a comprehensive experience that brings the family together, and creates beautiful memories for future generations.”

Al-Suhaiqi concluded by thanking the organizing committee for organizing events that strengthen family ties, saying: “These events instill the values of cooperation and respect in children and connect them to their roots in a distinctive way.”

Bu Hamad Al-Suhaiqi: Instilling the values of patriotism in the hearts of our children.

Bu Hamad Al-Suhaiqi, a parent, stressed that Darb Al-Saai activities have become an integral part of the celebration of the National Day, due to their national and heritage values that enhance the Qatari identity. He said: “These events instill national values in the hearts of our children, and introduce them to the life and history of their ancestors, especially through heritage activities such as the military march, camel and horse competitions, and the Qatari House, which highlight the details of ancient life in an interesting and enjoyable way..

He added: “Teaching children the lives of the first through these events gives them a deeper connection to our authentic heritage and instills in them a spirit of pride and belonging.

Al-Suhaiqi pointed out the importance of extending the period of events, saying: “We hope that the activities of Darb Al-Saai will extend for a longer period that coincides with school holidays, and not be limited to two or three days only.” The longer the events last, the more time families will have to enjoy them and introduce their children to them better.

 

Strengthening national identity

Ahmed Kreib, one of the parents who was keen to visit Darb Al Saai with his young child, stressed that the national atmosphere and heritage events held reflect the depth of belonging and pride in the Qatari identity, pointing to the importance of such events in transmitting heritage to new generations in an interesting and practical manner.

Ahmed said: “Despite the young age of my child, I was keen to take him to Darb Al-Saai in his first year and to live with him the atmosphere of the place full of national values, from equestrian shows to the heritage market and activities for children, all of which contribute to introducing new generations to customs and traditions in a fun way, and it is important for children to see this heritage with a real eye, not only through books or screens.”.

He added: “What distinguishes Darb Al Saai is the diversity of activities, on the one hand we find markets that reflect the lifestyle of ancestors, and on the other hand there are events that combine entertainment and education.

Kreib stressed that these events contribute to strengthening family cohesion, as parents and children find an opportunity to spend fun and useful time together, pointing out that national events such as Darb Al-Saai not only convey the values of heritage, but also instill love for the homeland and pride in its history among the younger generations.

He concluded: “I thank the organizers of Darb Al Saai, as they provide an integrated experience that combines entertainment, education and education. These events encourage us as parents to be part of this momentous event, and I hope that the events will continue after the students take the mid-year vacation, so that they can have fun during the holiday.

 

Events suitable for young and old

Abdullah Hamad said that he enjoyed spending the National Day with the family in Darb Al-Saai, especially that there are many events and activities directed to children on this glorious day, explaining that the activities provided by the organizing committee not only attracted children, but adults also had a share in enjoying various activities that express the past of the ancestors, connect children to it and introduce them to life in the past.

He added that what attracted the children’s attention the most were the activities of the distillery, horse riding, the small falconer, and the comfort of the children, which won great attention from his children, who demanded to spend the entire day in Darb Al-Saai.

 

The atmosphere of celebrations blended the present and the past.

For his part, Jassim Al-Athba explained that the atmosphere of the National Day celebrations in Darb Al-Saai blended the present and past of the State of Qatar, stressing that the past is part of the present, especially that the heritage events varied between educational and entertainment activities, and some of them reflected the old professions practiced by parents and grandparents such as pearl diving, as well as distillery and market activities.

He pointed out that the popular games and heritage shows brought joy to the hearts of everyone, especially children, and made them learn about our ancient heritage, noting that he feels incredibly happy when his children are interested in knowing everything about Qatar’s ancient past.

 

Multiple messages

For her part, um Sultan said: “This year’s National Day celebrations and the distinguished events presented by the organizing committee amount to being more than just celebrations, as they carry with them several messages that take visitors on a journey to the past and present the lives of parents and grandparents on this good land, and instill in the minds and hearts of the young generation the love of the homeland and belonging to it.”

 

The nobility of maritime heritage

The traditional crafts accomplished by the participants in the sea event in front of visitors to Darb Al Saai reflect the nobility of the maritime heritage and all its various marine aspects, amid remarkable interaction from the audience.

Mr. Abdulrahman Abdullah Al-Yousef says that he is completing the tools used in diving, which were used in the “time of Lul”, to put oysters inside, as sailors used to dive in the depths of the sea, for up to 15 minutes, to catch pearls, in a journey that may take about six months.

He continues: The ancestors in “the time of Lul” used to resort to this method to earn a living from it, while today it has become part of the heritage, which the Ministry of Culture is working to revive, through these events in Darb Al-Saai, and highlight it among the members of the current generation, which makes the establishment of these events very important.

In turn, Mr. Ahmed Al-Yousef says that he is completing what is known as the knot, to facilitate its use in diving, for pearl fishing, which is the craft that maintains the fishing process itself, so that there is no defect during the diver’s cruise, to pearl fishing, pointing to his keenness to accomplish this craft in front of the audience of Darb Al-Saai, to introduce them to such professions, which were practiced by parents and grandparents, and in a way that makes the pioneers of Darb Al-Saai learn about these professions, and revive them, within the ancient maritime heritage.

Mr. Abdullah Yousef Abdullah says that he creates ropes that can be used in many fields, such as tents and ships, which were used by Jill Lawal, and are not currently used, and instead use what is known as “B” or nylon, to be used in ropes, giving them durability and strength.

As for Mr. Hussein Abdullah, he says that he creates nets, or what is known as “Lech” or “Ghazal”, to be used to catch all types of fish, where the bait catches them easily, and they are still used today, because the fisherman does not dispense with them, and they are made of nylon, so that they are not decomposed as a result of sea salts, fins, or the parts that sharp fish enjoy, but when fish are caught in these nets, they cannot escape from them, due to the hardness of the nets.

 

The Maritime Museum embodies the history of our ancestors.

Mr. Mohammed Al-Sada, owner of the Maritime Museum participating in Darb Al-Saai activities as part of the Qatar National Day celebrations, stressed that the event represents a real window to strengthen national identity and connect new generations with the history and heritage of their ancestors.

Al-Sada praised the distinguished organization of Darb Al-Saai events, considering it an ideal platform to highlight Qatar’s heritage in all its cultural and social aspects.

Speaking about his participation through the Maritime Museum, Al-Sada explained that the museum offers visitors an exceptional journey in Qatar’s maritime history, highlighting the ancestral life that was associated with the sea as a means of livelihood and life.

He said: “Our maritime museum is an embodiment of our ancient maritime history, as it includes a distinguished collection of marine tools, traditional ships, and fishing nets, which were used by our ancestors in pearl diving and fishing.

Al Sada pointed to the great interaction by visitors, especially children and youth, who showed a special interest in learning about maritime heritage, which reflects the success of the event in achieving its educational and cultural objectives.

He stressed that participating in Darb Al Saai represents a valuable opportunity to convey the message that the Qatari national identity is rooted in our maritime heritage, and that preserving it is a duty for all of us.

At the end of his speech, Al-Sada called for promoting cultural activities that highlight various aspects of Qatari heritage, noting that maritime heritage is an integral part of Qatar’s history and identity.

The Organizing Committee of the National Day 2024 announced the extension of the activities of the National Day of the State in Darb Al-Saai until next Saturday, December 21.

The activities held by the Ministry of Culture continued at the permanent headquarters of Darb Al-Saai in um Salal during the period from 10 to 21 December.

The events have witnessed a high turnout since their launch last Tuesday,  and families, citizens and residents, are keen to take their children in order to enjoy the atmosphere and practice various activities, as Darb Al-Saai includes a variety of events suitable for all ages, and includes various cultural and movement activities and competitions.

 

 Al Mutawa evokes heritage.

In  an atmosphere full of heritage and patriotism, the artist Mohammed Hassan Al-Mohammadi, known as “Al-Mutawa”, will resound in the activities of the National Day 2024 in Darb Al-Saai with sophisticated meanings, through which he evokes the nobility of the authentic heritage, amid remarkable interaction on the part of visitors to Darb Al-Saai, from families, especially children.

Artist Mohammed Hassan Al-Mohammadi expressed his pride in participating in these events, as they are important events that evoke the nobility of the authentic Qatari heritage, in an atmosphere and national celebrations, highlighting to visitors the value of folk art, in addition to the nobility of customs and traditions entrenched in the memory of society.

 

He affirms his keenness to play the character of “Al-Mutawa”, who presents children with their ancient heritage, and educates them about it, and that he was the first to perform this character, “which was absent from the scene after the emergence of oil, and I had the honor that I was the first to present it, and I am always keen to present it time after time, as it is one of the most characters that I present”, pointing out that he has been keen for many years to participate in the activities of Darb Al-Saai, based on a national duty, and an affirmation of national identity.

 

The character “Al-Mutawa is important in our lives and has a great impact on our authentic Qatari heritage, so I am keen to embody it, documenting the ancient Qatari heritage, preserving it from extinction, and reviving it among the current and future generations.”

 

He says: I am keen to develop the performance of this character time after time, and I do not say occasion after occasion, as I am always keen to revive this character, and protect it from extinction, which I am working hard to preserve this heritage, revive it in the current generation, and link it to its heritage, and then instill beautiful and popular customs and traditions in them, especially since this character is still engraved in the memory of the people of the country.

 

He explains that “Al-Mutawa” used to play a role in teaching children to read the Holy Qur’an in the village, before the advent of oil, in addition to teaching them some lessons of the educational curriculum, and when children conclude the Holy Qur’an, Al-Mutawa implements the Tahmida, which means celebrating these children who have sealed the Holy Qur’an, and then the children who have completed memorizing the Holy Qur’an wear Bisht, Ghutra and Aqal, and they are given a small sword, as a sign of masculinity, then Al-Mutawa takes them while they are in the front, and behind them the rest of the children of the village, then Al-Mutawa calls for those who He completed memorizing the Qur’an, and then the rest of the children behind him believed in his prayers, in a traditional atmosphere.

 

Little Falconer

The event witnesses a great public interaction with the various activities that it launches daily in Darb Al-Saai, and Mr. Mohammed Saeed Al-Kubaisi, the event supervisor, said: The event is witnessing  a great turnout by visitors to Darb Al-Saai, as they learn about this aspect of life that was and still is part of the lives of Qataris to this day, and added: The events we organize include face painting and feeding the houbara bird through small holes in the cages without touching the birds themselves, in addition to providing a number of Species of birds of prey to allow the opportunity to photograph with them by visitors.

 

He added: ” We also have a participation in the comfort of children through a section to color sniper and bird tools such as the burqa and poking worn by the falconer while carrying the bird, and drawings of birds of prey used in hunting, knowing that the participating children get the drawing that they color through this event. Al-Kubaisi pointed out that participation also includes hunting dogs, and the public is allowed to take them on a tour around the event area.

On the interest in the heritage of falconry, Al-Kubaisi stressed that the State of Qatar’s interest in this heritage is not new, but it is old and continuous, and participation in the activities of the National Day is an embodiment of continued interest in this important aspect of the lives of our ancestors and our lives today, adding that our first people of the old falconers had their prayers and efforts in this hobby, but they knew the limits of hunting so they used to stop it in the mating season. He added that there are many achievements that confirm the interest in the heritage of falconry, such as: collecting books, documents, manuscripts, photographs, written, audio and visual materials, and documenting oral history related to this Qatari heritage, which is part of the world heritage.

 

Folklore troupes

Darb Al Saai events, held in celebration of Qatar National Day, witness a distinguished presence of folklore troupes, which present various artistic performances that highlight the authentic Qatari heritage, and revive traditional arts that express the identity of society and its ancient history.

 

In this context,  Qatari Al-Naham Omar Busaqer said: “We present an art that was sung in the past on the sword of the sea, where sailors used to chant songs and traditional phrases such as (There is no god but God, Muhammad is the Messenger of God) in celebration of the safety of return, and this ritual represented a spiritual and heritage interaction in the lives of Qatari sailors.”

He pointed out that the revival of this type of art in Darb Al-Saai contributes to introducing new generations to their singing marine heritage, adding: “Today, through these events, we seek to bring joy to the hearts of the public and visitors, and we are working to strengthen the link with our rich history and heritage.”

Busaqer pointed out that the daily participation of folklore troupes in Darb Al-Saai comes within the framework of the keenness of the organizers of the event to highlight the cultural and artistic diversity that Qatar abounds in, stressing that folk arts are not just performances, but rather cultural messages that express the identity of the country and its history.

Bu Saqr explained that the public and visitors interact with the heritage performances presented, pointing out that their presence and interest embodies the extent of the Qatari society’s connection to its authentic heritage.

Folklore troupes continue to perform as part of Darb Al Saai, a cultural and heritage platform that allows visitors to enjoy traditional Qatari arts and learn about the features of ancient life, which consolidates the national identity and enhances the sense of pride and pride in heritage.

 

 Seminar “Qatar in Ottoman Statistics”

As part of Darb Al-Saai activities, the Qatar Archives organized a distinguished seminar entitled “Qatar in Ottoman Statistics”, presented by Prof. Dr. Suhail Saban, where he reviewed samples of Ottoman archive documents, which deal with various aspects of economic and social life in Qatar during the reign of Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed bin Thani, founder of the modern state.

Dr. Saban explained that these Ottoman statistics included approximate estimates of the population in Qatar, the number of mosques and educational schools, in addition to accurate information about sources of income and the most prominent Qatari cities, villages and homes, and indicated that these documents are an important reference for documenting the history of Qatar, as they reflect the economic well-being that the people of the country were living at the time, which is shown by importing luxury goods, determining their sources and how to spend them.

He added that these documents include detailed reports on the pearl trade, the types of ships used in diving, as well as statistics on the population, their professions and income levels, in addition to the Ottoman administrative aspects that existed in the region.

During the seminar, Dr. Saban reviewed examples of reports of Ottoman political envoys to Qatar.

Dr. Suhail Saban concluded his speech by stressing the need for researchers to study the documents of the Ottoman archives thoroughly, as they represent a significant importance in writing the history of Qatar and called for more research efforts to explore its treasures and highlight the valuable historical information it holds.

The 2024 National Day celebrations, organized by the Ministry of Culture, are in full swing at the permanent Darb Al Saai venue in the Umm Salal area, running from December 10 to 18. The event has witnessed a remarkable turnout since its inauguration last Tuesday, with families flocking to Darb Al Saai to enjoy the diverse range of activities, despite the chilly weather.

“Qatari Flavour” Cooking Competition

Among the standout activities at Darb Al Saai is the live cooking competition, “Qatari Flavour,” which aims to spotlight the authentic Qatari culinary heritage while introducing audiences to its ingredients and traditional dishes. This contest merges a passion for cooking with creativity in preparing traditional recipes, making it a major attraction for attendees.

Chef Shireen Mohammed, the supervisor of the “Qatari Flavour” competition, described it as one of the largest live cooking contests in Qatar. She highlighted its engaging nature, which puts the skills and creativity of participating chefs to the test. According to Chef Shireen, this is the second consecutive year for the competition to be held at Darb Al Saai as part of the National Day celebrations.

She explained that the competition seeks to discover culinary talents and encourage participants to innovate in preparing dishes. It provides a platform for aspiring chefs and cooking enthusiasts to highlight their skills while celebrating the rich Flavors of authentic Qatari cuisine. The contest emphasizes dishes that reflect Qatari heritage and traditions, bringing a delightful array of dishes to the table.

Chef Shireen also mentioned that the competition hosts a guest of honor from a GCC country daily, adding a unique regional flavour to the event. The competition has attracted a large audience, particularly families, with mothers showing special interest due to its focus on traditional Qatari cuisine. Visitors also have the opportunity to watch the chefs in action and learn from them.

She noted that the participants compete head-to-head, fostering a spirit of rivalry to deliver their best. The prizes for the competition are highly generous:

• First place: QAR 80,000
• Second place: QAR 60,000
• Third place: QAR 40,000

Chef Shireen further revealed that over 250 contestants registered for the competition. After a meticulous selection process based on predefined criteria, 150 participants were initially shortlisted. This number was then narrowed down to seventy-five contestants, and through daily live cooking rounds at Darb Al Saai, only twenty-four contestants made it to the finals. The final four participants will compete on National Day, December 18.

The judging panel, comprising renowned chefs and experts in Qatari cuisine—Aisha Al Tamimi, Chef Hassan Al Ibrahim, Chef Mohamed Ragab, and Shams Al Qassabi—praised the high-calibre performances of the contestants. They lauded the intense competitiveness, noting that the results were exceptionally close.

The “Qatari Flavour” competition has undoubtedly added a distinctive taste to the Darb Al Saai festivities, making it a centrepiece of this year’s National Day celebrations.

The judging panel emphasized that the “Qatari Flavour” competition is a remarkable opportunity to promote national identity and highlight Qatar’s cultural and culinary heritage. The event aligns seamlessly with Darb Al Saai’s mission to celebrate National Day by fostering a sense of national pride through activities that blend culture, entertainment, and tradition.

The judges added that the enthusiastic interaction from the audience and the support extended to the contestants serve as a strong motivator for participants to continue honing their skills and to take part in more events that celebrate Qatar’s rich culinary traditions.

The competition witnessed a vibrant turnout, with the audience engaging passionately in the celebratory atmosphere. The festive setting of National Day lent a unique charm to the experience. Many attendees expressed their hopes that “Qatari Flavour” would become an annual tradition, a staple of Darb Al Saai’s festivities, to continue educating younger generations about Qatari cuisine and highlighting its authenticity to visitors of diverse nationalities.

One of the contestants described the “Qatari Flavour” competition as a unique opportunity to express his passion for authentic Qatari cuisine and to present this rich culinary heritage to the audience in an innovative way that reflects his cultural identity. He noted that cooking live in front of an audience and within a limited time was not just a technical challenge but also added a new dimension to the experience. This challenge made him feel a deep sense of responsibility and pride simultaneously. He expressed his joy in participating in the festive atmosphere of Darb Al Saai, which celebrates National Day and highlights Qatari heritage in all its facets.

Another contestant stated that the competition was not just a culinary challenge but also an inspiring experience that touched on many aspects, from enhancing his personal skills in the kitchen to deepening his understanding of the authenticity of Qatari cuisine. He added that live cooking in front of an audience had a unique charm, creating an interactive environment that boosted his confidence and highlighted his abilities. He emphasized that such events play a vital role in passing on Qatar’s culinary heritage to younger generations while fostering pride in national identity.

Chef Mohamed Badi Kamal highlighted the importance of events like “Qatari Flavour” in transferring knowledge about Qatari cuisine and fostering public appreciation for this rich culinary tradition. He pointed out the value of presenting cultural heritage in an interactive format to bring audiences closer to their roots and enhance their sense of belonging. He also noted the fierce competition among participants, with closely matched skill levels making the judging process particularly challenging.

 

Azm Pavilion

The Ministry of Social Development and Family made a remarkable contribution to the Darb Al Saai festivities with a distinctive pavilion dedicated to the “Azm” Financial Awareness Project. This initiative aims to educate Qatari families and youth on the importance of initiative-taking financial planning. The pavilion featured a variety of activities highlighting key concepts such as saving, investment, and avoiding debt, all geared toward achieving financial stability.

The Social Development Center “Nama,” a subsidiary of the Qatar Foundation for Social Work, also participated in the pavilion. Nama offered interactive activities designed to teach young people essential fiscal management skills. This participation aligns with Nama’s mission to nurture a financially conscious generation capable of realizing their aspirations in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.

 

Mr. Naif Al-Shahrani Highlights the Importance of Financial Awareness at the Azm Pavilion  Commenting on the participation, Mr. Naif Al-Shahrani stated that the Azm project’s presence at Darb Al Saai reflects a strong commitment to equipping Qatari youth with the tools and knowledge needed to make sound financial decisions. He emphasized that financial awareness serves as the foundation for stability and success in their future lives.

Regarding the role of financial literacy in sustainable development, Al-Shahrani added:

• “At Nama Center, we firmly believe that enhancing financial skills among youth contributes directly to achieving sustainable development by fostering a financially aware generation capable of confidently addressing challenges.”

He conveyed a heartfelt message to the youth, stressing that financial awareness is not merely a skill but a way of life.

• “I encourage young people to seize every opportunity to acquire these essential skills, as they are the cornerstone of a better future,” he remarked.

This initiative aims to instill a culture of financial planning in youth through an educational experience that incorporates innovative interactive stages. These stages are designed to introduce participants to the principles of saving, investing, and managing resources, helping to build a financially empowered and confident generation.

 

Darb Al Saai Market

The northern and southern markets of Darb Al Saai have seen a significant influx of visitors eager to purchase handmade heritage products. Managed by skilled artisans from various fields, the markets highlight a diverse array of goods, including perfumes, traditional clothing, marine products, and collectibles that bridge the past and present. These unique designs and artistic creations have captured the admiration of both Qatari citizens and visitors from different nationalities.

The Heritage Market in Darb Al Saai features specialized stores offering traditional attire for national celebrations and holidays, alongside Sadu products, ceramics, and other distinctive items.

 

Abu Majed, the owner of a ceramics store in the market, shared that his shop has been bustling with activity since the opening day of Darb Al Saai, with visitor numbers surging over the past weekend. He explained how his shop has reimagined traditional crafts with a modern twist, offering creatively designed products that connect Qatar’s heritage with contemporary aesthetics.

• Abu Majed: “Our products carry a unique touch of creativity, blending the past with the present.”

Speaking about the stages of ceramic production, Abu Majed elaborated:

Raw Materials: Sourced from Europe and America.

Shaping: Crafted into cups, plates, and small dishes.

Drying and Firing (Stage One): The pieces are baked into pottery.

Glazing (Stage Two): Using special colors and techniques inspired by glasswork.

Final Firing: To achieve durable and elegant products suitable for dining, drinking, and decoration.

Abu Majed also highlighted the popularity of the coloring workshop at his store, where children enthusiastically paint their own cups before purchasing them.

• Abu Majed: “This unique experience positively impacts children, allowing them to express their creativity while engaging with our heritage.”

 

Umm Mohammed, the owner of a traditional clothing business, described Darb Al Saai Market as an invaluable opportunity for small business owners, particularly those producing items related to National Day. She noted a high demand for national attire and shared insights into her craft:

• Umm Mohammed: “My business specializes in traditional clothing designs, particularly those associated with Ramadan, Garangaoo, and National Day celebrations.”

She explained that her designs are inspired by the heritage of Qatari women, incorporating classic patterns such as small floral motifs and paisley (known locally as cajou) into traditional garments like the bukhnuq and thob al-nashl. She emphasized her commitment to using colors and patterns that reflect Qatari culture, ensuring that her pieces resonate with both citizens and residents.

• Umm Mohammed: “These heritage-inspired items are highly sought after and serve as a bridge between the past and the present.”

 

Umm Mohammed expressed her gratitude to the Ministry of Culture and the National Day Organizing Committee for their continued support of small businesses, particularly women entrepreneurs. She praised the exceptional organization of the activities and events at Darb Al Saai.

• Umm Mohammed: “The ongoing support and outstanding event management reflect the dedication to empowering local businesses and preserving our cultural identity.”

 

Darb Al Saai Market stands as a vibrant testament to Qatar’s rich heritage, offering visitors an immersive experience of tradition and artisanry. From ceramics to clothing, the market not only preserves cultural identity but also creates a space for innovation and community engagement, making it a cornerstone of National Day celebrations.

 

Artistic Brilliance at the Gallery

Nestled within the historic and authentic setting of Darb Al Saai lies the Gallery Area, home to the Liwan of Art—a space that highlights the remarkable evolution of Qatari visual arts. Featuring a diverse array of paintings and artistic works, the gallery brings to life themes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in the cultural identity of Qatar.

The showcased pieces reflect the essence of Qatari heritage, portraying the country’s natural environment, including its distinctive flora, and honoring its rich traditions. Through these works, visitors to Darb Al Saai are introduced to the multifaceted dimensions of Qatar’s cultural and natural legacy.

 

Mrs. Huda Al-Saadi, Director of the Visual Arts Center under the Ministry of Culture, explained that the center supervises the exhibitions at Liwan of Art as part of the National Day celebrations at Darb Al Saai. The gallery features four major exhibitions:

• Two exhibitions by renowned Qatari visual artists.
• “Sikeek” (Paths), an exhibition by artist Yusuf Ahmed.
• “The Village of Poets,” an exhibition by artist Ali Hassan Al-Jaber.

Additionally, the gallery hosts two prominent group exhibitions:

• “Mazlaj” (Latch).
• “Al-Awsaj” (version two).

These exhibitions collectively highlight the work of approximately 45 Qatari artists, both men and women, whose pieces highlight the country’s artistic diversity and innovation.

An Artistic Journey Through Heritage and Nature

The gallery serves as a bridge between Qatar’s past and present, with artworks that celebrate the richness of its environment and the timeless beauty of its traditions. Whether through the delicate representation of native plants or the vivid portrayal of cultural heritage, these exhibitions provide an immersive artistic experience that captivates visitors and fosters a deeper appreciation for Qatari art.

As a centrepiece of Darb Al Saai’s celebrations, the Gallery Area stands out as a testament to Qatar’s thriving visual arts scene, offering a space where creativity meets tradition in perfect harmony.

Mrs. Huda Al-Saadi further explained that the “Mazlaj” exhibition focuses on artworks inspired by traditional Qatari doors, capturing their intricate details and historical significance. Meanwhile, the “Al-Awsaj” exhibition is dedicated to Qatar’s native plants, highlighting their unique beauty through creative interpretations.

The artistic exhibitions at Liwan also feature a diverse range of art forms, including visual arts, ceramics, printmaking, and mixed media. In addition to these exhibitions, the Visual Arts Center supervises several workshops aimed at enhancing artistic skills.

 

Workshops for participants aged fourteen and above include:

• Cartoon Character Drawing on Bags.
• Ceramic Art Workshop.
• Printmaking Workshop.
• Plaster Coloring Workshop.
• “Create Your Own Design” Workshop.

The center also offers a variety of art workshops tailored for children, ensuring inclusivity, and fostering creativity across all age groups. These workshops run throughout the duration of Darb Al Saai’s festivities, providing hands-on artistic experiences for all attendees.

Among the featured artists at the Gallery Area is Saeeda Al-Bader, a renowned Qatari visual artist. She commended the Ministry of Culture for its initiative in organizing Darb Al Saai and dedicating space within the gallery for visual arts.

• Saeeda Al-Bader: “The gallery is a remarkable addition to Darb Al Saai, reflecting the ministry’s commitment to cultivating artistic and cultural appreciation among visitors. It highlights the beauty and richness of Qatar’s local art scene while nurturing visual and cultural sensibilities.”

Through exhibitions and workshops, the Liwan of Art at Darb Al Saai bridges the past and present, offering visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of Qatari heritage and creativity. With its diverse range of art forms and focus on both education and appreciation, the gallery not only celebrates the local art scene but also fosters a deeper connection between the community and its cultural roots.

Artist Saeeda Al-Bader expressed her gratitude for the Ministry of Culture’s unwavering support for artists and the visual arts scene in Qatar. She highlighted how this encouragement motivates artists to strive for excellence, creating distinguished works that enrich Qatar’s cultural and artistic landscape.

Speaking about her contribution to the Gallery Area at Darb Al Saai, Saeeda Al-Bader shared her participation in the “Al-Awsaj 2024” exhibition, now in its second edition. Her piece is an oil painting on canvas, depicting the Gilwa plant, a native wildflower of Qatar’s desert environment.

• Saeeda Al-Bader: “The Gilwa is a striking plant with a bright yellow, circular flower at its center. It typically grows after the first rains, flourishing in the rawd (lowland meadows) and hazm (elevated plains) areas.”

Her work reflects a profound connection to Qatar’s natural heritage, highlighting the beauty and resilience of its flora while emphasizing the deep-rooted bond between the environment and Qatari identity.

Saeeda Al-Bader’s participation, along with that of many other artists, underscores the gallery’s role as a platform for highlighting the nation’s artistic talents. By celebrating Qatar’s natural and cultural heritage through innovative artistic expressions, the Gallery Area continues to inspire and captivate audiences at Darb Al Saai, enriching the visual and cultural appreciation of visitors from all levels of society.

 

 

The activities of the National Day 2024, held by the Ministry of Culture at the permanent headquarters of Darb Al-Saai in um Salal, continued from December 10 to 18.

The events have witnessed a high turnout since their inception, last Tuesday, and an increase in demand on Friday and Saturday (weekend) for the activities held by the Ministry of Culture, in celebration of the National Day this year.

Darb Al Saai witnessed the influx of families, citizens and residents, accompanied by their children and their families, to enjoy the heritage atmosphere, cultural events and various competitions, expressing their admiration for the events and services provided by the organizers of the events, such as abundant parking, and other service facilities such as chapels, toilets, and guidance and information services.

A number of visitors praised the various events, pointing to highlighting the cultural and heritage aspect that reflects the history of the country and its renaissance, which it is experiencing at the present time in various fields, adding that the tour in the activities of Darb Al-Saai is a trip to the past, and a reflection of the lives of ancestors in ancient times, and the visit is a paragraph of education for children on various aspects of life in the past and the stages of the country’s development and comprehensive renaissance.

Mr. Mohammed Al-Salem said that the atmosphere of the celebrations was characterized by entertainment and education, calling on everyone to visit Darb Al-Saai to enjoy the heritage and cultural atmosphere, which reflects Qatar’s authentic past through the various events held this year such as horse and camel shows, in addition to education activities for young people such as handicrafts, art and other various events.

He added: “What impressed me the most personally was the large turnout of the audience who was present, which added great fun in the place, especially as they found a special section for children’s games, as well as services and the level of safety, as families can leave their children to rest and have fun in Darb Al-Saai without worrying about them, and volunteers, security men and organizers everywhere are ready to help and guide, in addition to children’s bracelets that carry the phone number of their parents, to communicate with them in case the child loses his way to His family is in the midst of this great turnout.”

For his part, Mr. Hamad Al-Marri said that Darb Al-Saai activities are one of the most beautiful events in the country on the occasion of the National Day, indicating that this year’s activities are distinguished after the organizing committee for the National Day celebrations added a large number of diverse events.

Al-Marri explained that Darb Al-Saai witnessed a great turnout by citizens and residents who began to flock to participate in the various events since its launch last Saturday and added that the organizing committee deserves thanks and appreciation for the great effort it has made, to bring out this great festival in this dazzling image.

For his part, Mr. Abdullah Al Marri said: “Most of the events are of great quality, which made me keen to tour all the pavilions and attend all the heritage shows for horses and camels. He added: “What distinguishes Darb Al Saai this year is the large number of visitors who were keen to attend heritage and cultural events, which they did not find any difficulty in accessing, especially since the staff and event organizers are cooperative with the public. They provide guidance and information to visitors.”

 

 

“National Day Competition”

Amid great interaction, Darb Al-Saai activities will witness the second edition of the National Day competition, which will be held in Al-Maqtar, and presented by Iman Al-Kaabi, Director of the Qatari Media Center of the Ministry of Culture, and Hamad Al-Jamila.

The competition is held in an atmosphere of competition between participants of different groups and ages, through which participants learn about many aspects of Qatari heritage in its various corners and aspects, in line with the idea and objectives of the competition and contributes to developing awareness of the value of authentic Qatari heritage.

In this context, the presenters of the competition ask many questions about the various pillars of Qatari heritage and heritage, customs and traditions, history and geography of the country, amid remarkable interaction from the audience, who interact with them with passion, in a way that reflects a great awareness of the desire to learn about the Qatari heritage.

In this context, the competition is witnessing a large presence of Darb Al-Saai fans in various categories, where questions were asked related to the homeland, its history, the most important events experienced by the people of Qatar, whether in the past or the present, as well as the most important tourist and heritage places in the country, in a way that enhances heritage and national identity in the hearts of all.

For her part, Iman Al Kaabi expressed that the competition experience was highly exciting, extending her gratitude to the Ministry of Culture for nominating her to present the competition for the second consecutive year. She highlighted the significant impact the competition has achieved, not only within Darb Al-Saai but also across all digital platforms, where it has garnered widespread attention.

The competition is described as the first experience of its kind in interactive competitions, due to the remarkable public presence, in addition to the interactive questions it poses, which provide participants with valuable information about the nobility of Qatari heritage and its great history.

She says that the competition is keen on diversity in submitting questions to include various aspects of Qatari heritage, in addition to ensuring diversity in the selection of participants, which makes the competition directed to all categories, and gives a smile and happiness to everyone’s faces, especially as it is held in an atmosphere of commendable competition between the contestants, to instill a spirit of challenge among them.

Hamad Al-Jamila said that this is the second edition of the competition program within the activities of the National Day 2024 in Darb Al-Saai, and comes after the great success achieved by the first edition last year, with the aim of delighting visitors to Darb Al-Saai and giving a smile to their faces, on this national occasion dear to the hearts of all the people of Qatar.

He added that some questions are asked to the participants in order to arouse the spirit of honest competition among them, as these questions revolve around national meanings and heritage values, and he expressed his great happiness with the great interaction that the competition program enjoys from all Darb Al-Saai pioneers, of different groups and ages, especially children, which makes the competition a great opportunity to educate them about the great national and heritage values.

He continued: “The competition aims to arouse the spirit of challenge and competition among all participants, which is one of its results the overwhelming happiness that it draws on the faces of the contestants.

In this context, Al-Jamila praises the great state of awareness that the contestants enjoyed in their answers to the questions of the competition, in addition to the same state of awareness with practical experiences, or other various paragraphs offered by the competition.

The competition came in line with the objectives of Darb Al-Saai events aimed at strengthening national cohesion, and emphasizing the preservation of Qatari heritage and heritage, amid an interactive template that makes its impact remain in memory.

 

National Identity Symposium

The Qatar Media Center, affiliated to the Ministry of Culture, in cooperation with the Center for Empowerment and Care for the Elderly “Ehsan”, organized a seminar entitled “National Identity between the Present and the Future” last Friday evening, as part of the National Day activities in Darb Al-Saai, which will continue until December 18.

The seminar was attended by Maryam Rashid Al Mohannadi, Maryam Sultan Abdullah, and Amina Al-Bader from Ihsan RD, along with Ali Mubarak Al Jamila, Mohammed Muhanna Al Dosari and Abdulaziz Khalid Al Yafei from the Qatar Media Center, and moderated by poet Abdul Rahman bin Saud Al-Hajri.

The participants addressed the concept of national identity, which are the characteristics of each nation, stressing that the Qatari identity has components and pillars, whether in the formation of the Qatari personality or the apparent features of the personality such as national dress, customs and traditions, stressing in their speech that the Islamic religion, its principles and values are what formed the national identity along with customs, traditions and popular heritage.

The speakers valued the preservation of heritage, customs and traditions, but expressed their fear of introducing some changes to some Qatari customs and traditions, such as the celebration of the superfluous in the half of Shaban, which had a special character in the past associated with popular dishes, as well as “Garangao” in the middle of the Ramadan, which turned into a festive character more than the nature of heritage, which was characterized by simplicity, stressing that development is natural but should not threaten the heritage.

The participants, both senior and youth, also addressed the role of the family and society in strengthening national identity and the need to preserve the manifestations of identity, most notably the Qatari dress for men and women, praising the role of state institutions, especially the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, which makes Qatari dress mandatory, noting the role of the family in this regard. In the end, they stressed that preserving the national identity considering the challenges and technological changes is a collective responsibility, whether from institutions or every member of society.

Mrs. Iman Al-Kaabi, Director of Qatar Media Center, said  that the choice of the topic of the symposium came in line with the activities of the National Day and in Darb Al-Saai, as these events reflect the national identity and popular heritage, and therefore the choice of the topic was about national identity between the present and the future, where we wanted to learn about the nature of thinking between different generations of senior people and youth, as it appeared that despite the existence of great differences between generations,  They agreed that preserving the national identity is a life necessity, as an integral part of the Qatari personality, in light of the current challenges.

 

Poetry Evenings

Qatar Poetry Center (QCL) concluded on Saturday evening the  poetry evenings presented by the center as part of the National Day activities in Darb Al Saai.

The center dedicated evenings to the nine finalists   who were present in the final of the Mathayel Nabati poetry competition.

The third evening was held on the main stage in Darb Al-Saai and organized by Qatar Center on Saturday, and three poets from the nine winners of the recently concluded Mathayel competition participated in Darb Al-Saai, in which poets Saad Fahd Al-Sobouq, who qualified for the final of Mathayel for the ninth stage, Hamad Jaber Al-Jarhab, who qualified for the second stage of the competition, and Faisal Namas Al-Riahi, who qualified for the sixth stage of the competition.

During the evening, which was attended by the organizing committee of the Mathayel competition, several poets and Darb Al-Saai audience, the poets presented several poems dedicated to the State of Qatar on the occasion of the National Day, in addition to a collection of poems for each poet for various social and value purposes.

Poets Omar Fahd Al-Wadaani from Saudi Arabia, who qualified in the competition for the topic of neglect in the first stage, Saeed Al-Afir from Qatar, who qualified for the fifth stage and the topic of backbiting and gossip, and the poet Sultan bin Bandar from Kuwait, who was crowned with the grand prize and first place in the Mathayel competition.

The first evening was held last Thursday evening, and was attended by Qatari poet Salem Ali Al-Houl, who won the competition about envy, Kuwaiti poet Abdullah Nasser Al-Subaie, who qualified on the topic of trust, and Saudi poet Mohammed Majid Al-Juhani on the topic of waste, presented by Abdullah Al-Hajri.

The poets also reviewed their experiences in the Mathayel competition, praising the role of the award in their poetic career, especially as it is concerned with positive values and confronting negative values, and praised the nature of the competition, the method of judging and the criteria set by the organizing committee.

During each evening, poets were crowned with the shields of the award, except for the first-place winner, Sultan bin Badr, who was crowned first place in the closing ceremony of the award.

Poet Shabib bin Arar Al-Nuaimi, Director of Qatar Poetry Center, explained that the Center celebrated in the activities of the National Day in Darb Al-Saai the nine poets who qualified for the final of “Mathayel” by organizing three evenings in which three poets participate in each evening, where we give an opportunity to the audience of Darb Al-Saai to get to know these poets who are considered poetic statures, and their poetry is characterized by the treatment of values, in a continuous affirmation of the message of the Mathayel competition. It did not end with the crowning of the winners but is an ongoing cultural and literary project.

The 2024 National Day celebrations have witnessed, for the fourth consecutive day, an unprecedented public turnout at the various events organized by the Ministry of Culture. These events are held at the permanent venue of Darb Al Saai in Umm Salal and will continue until December 18 as part of this year’s National Day celebrations.

Yesterday, Darb Al Saai welcomed families, both citizens and residents, who brought their children and loved ones to enjoy the traditional atmosphere, cultural activities, and diverse competitions. Children, in particular, were eager to participate in activities tailored for them, including educational workshops, traditional games, and interactive experiences that foster awareness of Qatar’s rich cultural heritage among the younger generation.

 

“Al Shaqab” Activities

Each year, Darb Al Saai’s National Day celebrations feature distinguished participation from Al Shaqab, a member of Qatar Foundation. The activities offered by Al Shaqab consistently attract large crowds, especially families, as they captivate children through horseback riding experiences. Al Shaqab organizes a range of equestrian-related activities that highlight the significance of purebred Arabian horses and Qatar’s rich equestrian traditions.

These activities provide a close-up introduction to Qatari heritage, with a particular focus on the historical importance and roles of Arabian horses in the past. By promoting the love of horses and encouraging horseback riding, particularly among children, Al Shaqab aims to preserve and pass on this integral aspect of Qatari culture to future generations.

The pony rides remain a favourite activity for children, bringing them immense joy. In addition, Al Shaqab’s skilled riders deliver daily traditional performances that highlight the elegance and beauty of Qatar’s equestrian traditions.

Throughout the day, Al Shaqab’s activity area at Darb Al Saai experiences a steady flow of families, as parents bring their children to enjoy pony rides and watch the captivating performances of the riders in Al Shaqab’s arena. Volunteers and organizers assist visitors, contributing to a joyful and memorable experience for all.

 

Poetry Evening

As part of the National Day celebrations organized by the Ministry of Culture at Darb Al Saai from December 10 to 18, the Qatar Poetry Center held a poetry evening last Thursday. The event featured three poets who were finalists in the “ Mathayel ” competition.

The first poetry evening, hosted by Abdullah Al-Hajri, included Qatari poet Salem Ali Al-Houl, who won the competition with a poem on the theme of “envy”; Kuwaiti poet Abdullah Nasser Al-Subaie, who qualified with a poem on “trust”; and Saudi poet Mohammed Majed Al-Juhani, whose poem tackled the theme of “extravagance.”

The event, held on the main stage, was attended by prominent cultural figures such as Mr. Abdulrahman Abdullah Al-Dulaimi, Director of the Department of Culture and Arts at the Ministry of Culture; Mr. Mubarak Abdullah Al-Khalifa, Director of the Department of Publications and Artistic Works; and Mr. Shabeeb Bin Arar Al-Nuaimi, Director of the Qatar Poetry Center, alongside a distinguished audience of poets and poetry enthusiasts.

The participating poets opened the evening by extending their heartfelt congratulations to the State of Qatar on the occasion of National Day, expressing their prayers for continued security and prosperity for Qatar and all who live on its land.

They also shared their experiences in the “ Mathayel” competition, commending the award for its focus on positive values and its efforts to counteract negative ones. The poets expressed appreciation for the competition’s nature, judging process, and the criteria established by the organizing committee.

Each poet presented a selection of their poems that reflected their pride in Qatar on this special occasion. Their works emphasized the significance of National Day as a platform for reinforcing values and highlighted their unique styles across various poetic themes, particularly those of national and social significance.

Commenting after the evening, Mr. Shabeeb Bin Arar Al-Nuaimi, Director of the Qatar Poetry Center, noted that the center is celebrating the nine finalists of the “Mathayel” competition during the National Day festivities at Darb Al Saai. This is being done through a series of three poetry evenings, each featuring three poets, offering Darb Al Saai audiences the opportunity to engage with these esteemed poets whose works address values in a meaningful way. He emphasized that “Mathayel” is more than a competition; it is a continuous cultural and literary project.

 

“Spectrum of Sand”

Mr. Abdulaziz Buhaishim Al-Sayed, the supervisor of the “Spectrum of Sand” activity, described it as a vibrant part of the Desert Museum, embodying the spirit of Qatar’s heritage and traditions. The activity highlights memories and tangible heritage from the past, providing visitors to Darb Al Saai with a valuable opportunity to explore the cultural legacy that has shaped the region’s identity.

The “Spectrum of Sand” activity illustrates three key phases of life in the past, narrating stories about customs, traditions, and practices that defined the region’s identity. Among these are the hospitality of serving coffee and using the traditional dallah, the craft of weaving Bedouin tents and sadu, and the art of hunting and falconry. Together, they create a rich cultural experience that intertwines ancient traditions with historical narratives, reflecting the essence of Arab generosity.

Mr. Al-Sayed explained that the activity highlights the enduring nature of hospitality in Qatar, not just as a custom but as a deeply rooted noble heritage and a defining characteristic. He noted that coffee has transcended its role as a simple beverage to become a symbol of generosity and social connection, embodied in the warmth of Qatari gatherings. The dallah, he added, is more than just a coffee-making utensil; it is a timeless emblem of Qatar’s culture and traditions, symbolizing its authentic values of generosity, hospitality, and unique identity.

The narrative continues with the craft of sadu weaving and the construction of Bedouin tents, meticulously created from sheep’s wool and goat hair. These tents recount stories of ancestors, reflecting their harmonious relationship with nature through exquisite artisanry. The Bedouin tent, nestled amidst the sands, serves as a moving tableau of simple yet beautiful living.

The “Spectrum of Sand” also celebrates falconry and hunting, deeply ingrained in the Qatari ethos. It highlights a collection of traditional tools and equipment used in these pursuits, which embody a spirit of challenge and a profound connection with nature. These practices have evolved into a sport, maintaining their status as a testament to Qatar’s heritage.

The activity features rare and original artifacts, including a variety of dallahs, an authentic Bedouin tent model, weaving and sadu-making tools, as well as the essential equipment for falconry and outdoor excursions.

The diverse array of activities at Darb Al Saai underscores Qatar’s commitment to preserving and promoting its cultural heritage, making the National Day celebrations a vibrant reflection of the nation’s history and values.

The activities of the National Day 2024, held by the Ministry of Culture, continued at the permanent headquarters of Darb Al-Saai in um Salal during the period from 10 to 18 December.

The third day of the events witnessed many visitors, especially families, citizens and residents, accompanied by their children, in order to enjoy the events.

 

“Qatari House”

The “Qatari House” is one of the most important events in Darb Al-Saai, during which the visitor sees all the corners and components of the Qatari house in the old way, and knows the role of each corner in the house well, and among what the Qatari house includes the council, the café, the house and the seat, the khila, Dar Al-Mutawa and other corners that know the components of the Qatari house, and how parents and grandparents lived in the past.

Mr. Abdullah Shaheen Al-Ghanim, Chairman of the Qatari House Event and owner of the Abdullah Al-Ghanim Museum, said that this time the participation is witnessing an expansion of the Qatari House at the level of the tour in the house, which includes the precious pieces in the homes of the people of Qatar, as well as the addition of the Fashion Museum during this year’s participation.

Al-Ghanim explained that the contents and belongings of the Qatari House were redistributed for the enjoyment of visitors, pointing out that the event aims to introduce the design of the Qatari house in the past and its various divisions and pillars, which are mainly derived from the Islamic religion and Arab Islamic customs and traditions, where the Majlis is at the front of the house, and the house campus has privacy.

He said that when the visitor enters from the gate of the “Qatari House”, time goes back to see the houses of the people of Qatar in the past, and the role of every part and corner in this house, as the Council – for example – in the past was not just a council only, but it was also the seat of government and a center for pearl trade, and other roles that the Council played in the past.

Al-Ghanim stressed that there is a message behind the “Qatari House” event, which is to preserve this heritage for generations and show it in an appropriate way, especially since heritage is one of the most vulnerable things, and therefore must be preserved in an appropriate manner.

 

 

Sea Efficiency

Maritime heritage is an important part of Qatar’s history, as it is deeply rooted in history, due to the strong attachment of ancestors and fathers to the sea, as it was a major source of income at the time, until the developments of the times, and the sources of income diversified.

Based on the revival of maritime heritage in popular conscience, evoking it between generations, and passing it on among them, to introduce it, comes the “Sea” event, which seeks to highlight the nobility of maritime heritage, with all its originality and nobility.

As part of the “Sea” event in Darb Al-Saai, several traditional craftsmen are stacked, who weave traditional crafts with their hands, which were used in the time of Lul, as one of the traditional means of fishing, before the rapid developments that are witnessing today affected the era, until these crafts became part of the heritage, which must be preserved.

The participants in this event appreciate the efforts of the Ministry of Culture in documenting such crafts through the events it holds from time to time, through which it enhances the value of maritime heritage, and seeks to highlight it among the current generation, and pass it on between generations, to introduce it, and show the extent of its heritage and originality.

In this context, Mr. Ahmed Ali says that he is accomplishing some traditional crafts for maritime heritage, through which he seeks to highlight its heritage, and introduce the audience of Darb Al-Saai to it, as he accomplishes the ropes that reach the depth of the sea, through “Garaqir”, pointing out that parents and grandparents practiced traditional professions, as modern means were not present at the time, until these crafts became part of the authentic heritage, which no longer exists, to come such events witnessed by Darb During the National Day, to evoke and introduce it.

As for Nokhitha Abdullah Hilal, he says that he is completing the tools for sailing traditional bearings, which he used in the time of Lul for fishing, whether for pearl fishing or fishing, pointing out that some shops still use such traditional tools in the traditional sail industry, which shows the extent of keenness not to disappear, to remain a living part of our marine heritage, and an expression of our ancient history, which is still preserved in the popular conscience.

He stressed that such events in Darb Al-Saai in turn contribute to the revival of the authentic Qatari heritage, especially the maritime one, and also contribute to introducing the current generation to these traditional crafts, for the maritime heritage, so that this generation can learn about the life of the first, and their profession at the time, which was dependent on the sea, as a main source of livelihood, before the emergence of oil, and the development of economic life after that.

 

 

Track & Nayla

The event is divided into two parts, namely the track and the Naylah, where the track embodies part of the atmosphere of the sand dunes in Sealine, and children live a distinctive experience with riding quad bikes “Batabet”, in addition to the rotating wheel that includes a group of names in the track event to assign the visitor a task to accomplish during the quad bike driving experience, and the section The other is the Nayla and features a range of toys that require physical movement.

A number of visitors expressed their admiration for this event, which they stood on in a queue, waiting for the opportunity for their children to experience all activities, stressing that the organizers of the National Day activities in Darb Al-Saai have succeeded in choosing this event because of its great importance, whether in the fun it provides to the children who participate in it, or in terms of education, as it embodies communication with nature, and encourages games that require physical movement and are healthy for children, stressing that all Darb Al-Saai activities are distinctive and attract Attention, especially those that dedicate a part to children’s activities, as most of the visitors to Darb Al-Saai are families, and the provision of this type of events, especially old folk games and communication with nature, is one of the things that attract visitors and arouse their interest.

 

Marine Mummified Display

Ali Al-Naama (Marine Heritage) said: “We are participating in Darb Al-Saai activities this year in a different way than in the past, as we display in the pavilion marine mummified plants that include different types of fish, including poisonous and prey, and even the names of extinct fish, in addition to introducing mummified snails as well, as well as bearings for fishing and trade of goods between countries, and bearings for diving seasons.”

Al-Naama added: “We introduce the audience in the special pavilion participating in Darb Al-Saai to the methods of making “gargour” previously, which relied on palm fronds at that time, as well as fishing nets and ropes for the sea, which also depend in their manufacture on palm trees.”

Al-Naama pointed out that Darb Al-Saai is very popular, as it reflects aspects of the Qatari heritage, both land and sea, pointing out that Darb Al-Saai witnesses a beautiful development every year.

 

“National Day Aesthetics 2024” Competition

Qatar Photography Center (QC), part of the Ministry of Culture, has launched the National Day Aesthetics 2024 competition, which highlights the aesthetics of National Day and gives professional and amateur photographers the opportunity to express their feelings and understanding of the national identity through photographs, which highlight the aesthetics of the National Day.

Mr. Jassim Ahmed Al Buainain, Director of Qatar Photography Center, said that the competition comes to translate the center’s vision in promoting national belonging through the lens, explaining that the lens is more than just a tool for taking pictures, as it is a window to the world around us, and when we direct it towards our homeland, we discover a new beauty in every nook and cranny .

He explained that the objectives of the competition, for which valuable financial prizes have been allocated, go beyond the limits of competitions in their competitive concept, to contribute directly to creating a visual record for future generations, and contribute to preserving cultural identity, pointing out that the lens is a powerful tool to enhance national belonging through the image that tells us the story of the homeland.

He added that participation in the competition is free and available to participants from inside Qatar, provided that the participating photos are artistically expressive of the title of the competition, and were taken during the activities and celebrations of the National Day of 2024 with a professional camera, provided that no additions or digital merging are made in the submitted image, and the participant has the right to submit a maximum of 5 photos.

The Director of Qatar Photography Center pointed out that the conditions and mechanisms of participation are available through the Center’s accounts on social media platforms, noting that the last date for receiving photos of participants in the “Aesthetics of National Day 2024” competition is on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, where the first place winner will receive 20,000 riyals, the second 15,000 riyals, the third 10,000 riyals, and the fourth to tenth places will receive two thousand riyals each.

 

“Qatar Reads”

Qatar Reads attracted children to Darb Al Saai through a variety of creative activities aimed at promoting the love of reading and making books part of children’s daily lives. The event, which was characterized by the diversity of its activities, was admired by children and their families by providing integrated educational and entertainment experiences aimed at building a strong relationship between the younger generations and knowledge.

Abdullah Nafez Al-Bardini, from Qatar Reads, explained that this year’s event witnessed a qualitative development, aimed at motivating children to read in an interactive way. “What we offer at Qatar Reads goes beyond just the annual event, it is part of a deeper message to promote children’s passion for reading.

“We believe in the importance of every child having their own library, so we launched the Reading Box initiative, where we offer families monthly subscriptions with interactive stories and educational materials delivered directly to their homes. Daily storytelling sessions between five and seven thirty in the evening have become a key stop for visitors, where everyone participates in a wonderful interactive atmosphere.”

Al-Bardini explained that the event included innovative activities such as a speech structure activity to promote creative thinking, coloring workshops that combine fun and education, in addition to storytelling sessions that attracted the interest of children and adults alike.

“Qatar Reads reaffirms its commitment to spreading the culture of reading as part of the Qatar National Vision 2030, by providing entertaining and educational content in Darb Al Saai that enhances the role of books in the lives of young generations, and establishes an educated and knowledge-loving generation,” said Al-Bardini.

 

Fajri Art Symposium

The Music Affairs Center, affiliated to the Ministry of Culture, organized a seminar entitled “Rhythm in the Art of Fajri”, as part of the activities of the National Day currently held at Darb Al-Saai in um Salal.

The seminar, which was held on the main stage in Darb Al-Saai last night, was attended by popular artist Khaled Saeed Johar and popular artist Mohammed Dakhil Al-Hamad and was moderated by artist Omar Sultan Al-Kuwari.

The participants in the seminar expressed their happiness with the heritage atmosphere and the efforts of the Ministry of Culture in presenting Qatari heritage within the National Day celebrations in Darb Al-Saai.

The popular artist Khaled Gohar addressed the history of the art of Al-Fajri and people’s association with it in the past, pointing out that divers who live in the sea for months in pursuit of their livelihood and with their simple tools, were carrying with them things made of pottery, and the art of Al-Fujayri was the catalyst and the way that makes them tired of days, pointing out that the presence of other arts was accompanying the arts of the sea, noting that the types of art of Al-Fajri include five types:  (Bahri, Adsani, Haddadi, Kholfi, and Hassawi), where each species is associated with the beginning of the omnivorous.

For his part, the artist Mohammed Al-Hamad said: The art of Al-Fajri is an ancient art in Qatar, and it is rich in songs and words, as it was accompanied by pearl diving trips constantly, and many of the Nahmins have professionalized singing and singing to entertain the sailors on board the ship, and to add joy and enthusiasm in them, to help them endure the trouble, effort and hardship of work, so Al-Naham was the owner of the strongest voice and the clubs positively influential in raising the performance of sailors and their work, when they hear a beautiful rhythm that they interact with, the activity is renewed and They have the ability to complete the journey and its troubles.

He explained that the art of Fajri belongs to the arts of the sea, which is divided into two types, the first of which is related to the arts of leisure times, and it is after returning from work or rest on an island or such, while the other type is on board the ship.

The symposium witnessed the presentation of models of the arts of Al-Fajri and the features of each type, to show the differences between the marine arts and the features of each, so models of the art of Al-Fujairi were presented in its five basic forms, as well as the arts of Al-Khatfa, Al-Dawari and Al-Yamal, using their traditional tools of drums, tambourines and pottery machines associated with the art of sound.

 

The activities of the National Day 2024, held by the Ministry of Culture at the permanent headquarters of Darb Al-Saai in um Salal, continued from 10 to 18 December.

The second day of the activities witnessed a large turnout of visitors, citizens and residents accompanied by their children, in order to enjoy the events.

Abdul Rahman Ahmed Al Badi Al Maadeed, Head of Al Maqriat and Al Ezba Event, said that the event is one of the main events in Darb Al Saai, which aims to promote Qatari heritage and introduce young people and new generations to it, pointing out that young people, through their presence in the camel riding area, learn many things just by looking, as well as teaching them some things related to camel riding as well as terminology.

Al-Maadeed added that the State of Qatar is keen to introduce generations to the heritage of ancestors and urge them to preserve it, and we here in Darb Al-Saai and considering this heritage atmosphere do our best every year during the “Al-Maqtar and Al-Ezba” event to attract visitors from families accompanied by their children to the event.

He said that the great turnout witnessed by the “Distiller and Homestead” event is evidence of the attachment of young people to this heritage, and we see things that make us very happy, including the keenness of young people to ask us their questions to learn and know some things related to camels, and in turn we teach them.

 

With children’s comfort

Organized by the Visual Arts Center, Darb Al Saai’s Children’s Comfort, was well received by families and children, who enjoyed an experience that combines entertainment and education, and aims to develop children’s skills and enhance their connection to Qatari heritage.

Mansour Juma, supervisor of the “Children’s Comfort” event, explained that the event is divided into six main sections, providing an integrated experience for children.

He said: “For children’s comfort, it includes a horse pavilion, which allows children to learn about this wonderful world, in addition to a journey to the depths section, where children experience an interactive experience that simulates diving and its secrets. We also have the cubes pavilion, which focuses on developing mental skills, and the Sadu and weaving house, which teaches children an ancient traditional craft.”

He pointed out that the event also contains a creativity corner, which includes workshops such as free drawing and workshops for professions, which allow children to unleash their imagination and creativity. He added: “One of our distinctive activities is the Dahrouj game, which provides an exciting and challenging experience for children.”

Regarding the organization and effort to ensure a unique experience, Mansour explained that participation in “Children’s Comfort” is preceded by a registration process to ensure that the event is organized smoothly, stressing that all possibilities are available to provide an enjoyable and useful experience for children.

Mansour concluded: “Children’s comfort is a great example of integrating education and entertainment into one event, making it a distinctive stop in Darb Al Saai during the National Day celebrations.

 

Theater Affairs Center

The Center for Theater Affairs participates in the activities of the National Day in Darb Al-Saai by presenting several theatrical performances for adults and children.

On this participation, Mr. Tayseer Abdullah, Head of the Communication and Media Unit at the Theater Affairs Center of the Ministry of Culture, said that the organizing committee of the National Day celebrations was keen to present a distinguished bouquet of theatrical and musical arts that enhance the Qatari heritage, and highlight theatrical creativity for adults and children, noting that the center participates in a new and diverse range of activities that combine fun, education and the promotion of heritage values, making it an integrated cultural experience.

He added that the center presents 3 plays daily on the main stage by Qatari authors from the young generation, as well as directors and crew of young actors throughout the days of Darb Al-Saai, in addition to two lyrical operettas, the first entitled “The Tale of a Pen”, which talks about features of the history of education in the State of Qatar with the participation of 140 children, and the second entitled “For the homeland we sing”, which is 17 famous national songs in the history of Qatari singing with the participation of 160 children.

Abdullah explained that the Center for Theater Affairs presents for the first time a play dedicated to children presented in a fun and interesting style entitled “Sarah’s Adventure”, which is a mixture between puppets and real characters, on the children’s theater, and the center also presents a heritage show presented by a group of Qatari youth entitled “Pull Your Tricks”, a theatrical show that calls for optimism and hard work, and is held from four in the afternoon until seven thirty in the evening.

The Head of the Communication and Media Unit at the Center for Theater Affairs pointed out that the Center presents daily at the Children’s Theater the “Hazawi Hadiya” event, which brings together the able artist Hadiya Saeed and the artist Salman Salem in folk tales that address noble values, and reflect the authenticity of the Qatari heritage in an interesting and fun storytelling style, in addition to a variety of workshops for children, which suit different ages.

Abdullah pointed out that the center offers a daily event in Souq Waqif popular Darb Al-Saai entitled “Qatari folk professions” presented in the form of dramatic comedy scenes that reflect heritage life and traditional professions, and the center chose to present the professions of “Al-Kandari”, a person who fetches water from the well and transports it in metal cans to be distributed to the people of Al-Fereej for a material price, and the profession of “roundabout”, which is the person who carries women’s belongings and sells them in homes, daily from four in the afternoon until ten in the evening.

 

“Sana Qatar attracts visitors

One of the new events offered by the Ministry of Culture in Darb Al-Saai this year is the “Sana Qatar” event, and about this event, Mr. Anas Al-Shayji, Chairman of the event, said: “Sana Qatar” offers different and distinct experiences for visitors, which are three sections that display the history of the country and its renaissance electronically on screens extending on the walls of the event, while the first section is interactive where children draw drawings in the designated section, and then display them on large electronic screens, and this is done through a scanning process The second section is the coffee section, which is designed in a very modern way that reflects the technological aspect, as if the visitor is on a journey in cyberspace.

Al-Shayji indicated that this event was greatly appreciated by visitors, as it is unique and takes the visitor into an experience that he may be living for the first time, and about the third and final section, the head of the event said: The section is called “Al-Baraha”, which is a large room consisting of three-dimensional screens that reflect different films about the country’s history, present and renaissance under the wise leadership.

In the same context, Al-Shayji said that the event has been witnessing a heavy turnout since the first day, because it is held for the first time in the activities of the National Day in Darb Al-Saai and under the umbrella of the Ministry of Culture, and pointed out that the event site is designed in a distinctive way that ensures smooth entry and participation in various events, as the event was designed for a separate entrance and exit from each other, in order to facilitate the process of the largest number of visitors wishing to participate.

As for the name of the event, Al-Shayji explained that it is taken from the local dialect and means bright light, and it was named “Sana Qatar” because the State of Qatar – thanks to God – is like a bright light with its successes and progress in various fields.

 

Music Center

The Music Affairs Center participates in the National Day celebrations in Darb Al-Saai in an exhibition that covers all aspects of traditional and modern musical instruments, and Mr. Khaled Hassan Al-Salem, Director of the Center, said that the exhibition is held for the first time in the National Day celebrations, as the Center’s participation was limited to external events held on the Darb Al-Saai Theater and others, and added that the idea of holding the exhibition came to provide an opportunity for the public to learn about the musical aspects and types of old and modern instruments, in addition to the types of recording instruments that have become heritage. He explained that the exhibition includes 4 sections, each section of which covers a specific aspect of the world of music, and combines the past and the present, including the heritage section, the musical instruments section, the recordings section, and the libraries section.

Al-Salem reviewed the content of the sections, starting with the heritage, which contains a group of musical instruments, most of which were used in the past in the arts of the sea and women’s folk arts and the Ardah, and includes the instrument “Al-Marwas” and “Al-Yahya”, and Al-Salem moved to the Musical Instruments Center, which includes a group of various genres, including those used in Arabic music such as the oriental takht, the oud and the flute, and instruments used in rhythms, in addition to instruments used in orchestra such as violin, cello, etc., piano and others. As for the recordings section, Al-Salem said that it reviews The development of the recording machine from the thirties of the last century until today, as it reflects a picture of the evolution journey of this instrument from the use of CDs to CDs, and he pointed out that the library section reviews books that talk about music, whether oriental or international, and includes two pavilions dedicated to honoring the late Qatari artists, who had a distinctive imprint in Qatari music, and these wings contain what we were able to collect from their holdings, such as the oud and some things related to their field of art, in addition to their works Whether literary related to this field or recordings.

Al-Salem said that the exhibition also includes a workshop for the manufacture of oud from A to Z, and is managed by a professional in this field, where he provides a detailed explanation to visitors about the stages of oud industry and the types of wood used for this, in addition to the artistic touches and decorations placed on the oud. At the end of his speech, Al-Salem pointed out that the exhibition will witness daily activities throughout the days of Darb Al-Saai.

The “Mathayel” Nabati poetry competition, organized by the Ministry of Culture under the slogan “Ethics is Evidence”, was concluded at the permanent headquarters of Darb Al-Saai, um Salal Mohammed, and lasted for nine months.

His Excellency Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al Thani, Minister of Culture, crowned the poet Sultan bin Bandar Al Ajmi as the winner of the title of “Poet of Mathayel“, with a prize of one million Qatari riyals, while the other eight poets received 800,000 riyals, at a rate of 100,000 riyals for each poet, bringing the total prizes of the final episode to one million and 800,000 riyals.

Nine poets competed in the final episode from previous episodes on the theme “Participation in Qatar National Day Celebrations”. The participating poets are Saad Fahad Al-Sobouq, Omar Al-Wadaani, Hamad Jaber Al-Jarhab, Mohammed Majid Al-Juhani, Sultan Bandar Al-Ajmi, Saeed bin Ali Al-Afir Al-Marri, Faisal Namas Al-Riahi, Abdullah Nasser Al-Subaie, and Salem Ali Al-Houl.

 

In his speech, poet Shabib bin Arar Al Nuaimi, Director of the Qatar Poetry Center (Diwan Al Arab), stressed that the competition witnessed a noble competition of creativity over the past nine months, saying: “Over the course of these months, we have witnessed the participation of hundreds of poets from different countries and generations who wrote with their pens the meanings of values and morals, and made their poems platforms to express honesty, loyalty, and other good morals, and everything that reflects our ancient heritage.”

Al Nuaimi praised the creative level of the qualified poets, considering that the competition was not just a platform to highlight poetry, but a tool to promote ethics and participate in building societies.

The jury described the winning poet Sultan bin Bandar Al-Ajmi’s poem as characterized by the diversity of styles and high poetic images that added paintings to it, as well as carrying deep national meanings.

 

Sultan bin Bandar, the winner of the title, expressed his great happiness with the victory, saying: “Praise be to Allah, Lord of the Worlds, winning in my second country and among my brothers is a great honor for me. The competition was very strong, and each poet proved his worth. God whitens everyone’s faces.”

 

“Winning this big competition is not just a personal achievement, it’s a tribute to everyone who supported me and contributed to my success.”

 

Hamad Abdullah Al Nuaimi, a member of the jury, said that the evaluation of the last episode was the most challenging due to the strength of competition and the convergence of the levels of poets.

He added that the final stage was the most difficult, especially with nine poets compared to previous rounds that included only five poets. The theme of the National Day was pivotal and required a lot of effort from the poets, but they all innovated, which made the evaluation more complicated.”

Al-Nuaimi pointed out that the improvisation evaluation was a distinctive element of the competition.

“The poets gave a special performance in improvisation, and each poet dealt with a different house, which added a new dimension to the evaluation,” he said. Thank God, we were able to get the job done thanks to the guidance of the competition.”

He concluded his speech by congratulating the poet Sultan bin Bandar Al-Ajmi on his well-deserved victory, stressing that all participating poets are considered winners thanks to their creativity and excellence. He also praised the great support that the competition received, and the presence of officials, which added great momentum to the event.

In the improvisation section, the poets read verses within the improvisation section, which was presented to them by the jury consisting of: Hamad bin Saleh Al-Marri, Hamad bin Abdullah Al-Nuaimi (Qatar), Dhaidan Al-Muraikhi (Saudi Arabia), Dr. Meshal Al-Zoubi (Kuwait), and Hamoud bin Wahqa (Sultanate of Oman).

The competitors improvised two and a half halves in a period that reached 15 minutes for each poet, amid great interaction from the audience who filled the sides of the theater, where the poems reflected national meanings in love with the State of Qatar and highlighting its leading role in various issues.

The qualified poets were also allowed to choose the theme of improvisation from a box containing different themes, where each poet committed to writing a section according to what he chose from the box.

The episode featured some interventions from poets who were guests on the program, where they addressed the importance of poetry and its place in societies, especially Qatari society.

 

 

THE Minister of Culture Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al-Thani met on Thursday with a number of Their Excellencies Ambassadors accredited to the UAE, the representative of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to the Arab Gulf States and Yemen, and the Director of the UNESCO Office in Doha.

The meeting came on the occasion of their visit to the National Day activities currently held by the Ministry of Culture in Darb Al-Saai, which will continue until December 18 .

Following their meeting with the Minister of Culture, Their Excellencies the Ambassadors toured Darb Al Saai, where they learned about different aspects of Qatar’s heritage and culture.

They saw many cultural, heritage and handicraft events in the Qatari House model and the old market, which simulates Souq Waqif in Darb Al-Saai.

Their Excellencies the ambassadors also witnessed aspects of artistic creativity in Qatar by visiting several art exhibitions and workshops, including: Sekeek Exhibition by Yousef Ahmed, Poets Village by Ali Hassan, Awsaj 2 Exhibition, an artistic view of Qatar’s plant life for a group of artists, and the Old Qatar Doors Latch Exhibition. An open memory of the past for a group of artists.

Their Excellencies the ambassadors also got acquainted with many events, most notably the Qatari House, Sana Qatar and other cultural events in Darb Al-Saai.

Their Excellencies the ambassadors expressed their admiration for the events, stressing that they are a bright window that highlights the renaissance that Qatar is experiencing in various fields, in addition to an opportunity to educate young people about customs and traditions, and the authentic Qatari heritage.

 

 

The Qatari Publishers and Distributors Forum, affiliated with the Ministry of Culture, organized a new session of the fifth edition of the “Children’s Book Designer” program this Saturday evening. This initiative, held in collaboration with the Children’s Literature Center, saw the participation of 61 children of various age groups.

The program features a range of creative activities aimed at introducing children to the structured stages of book design, enabling them to transform their drawings and stories into published works through a Qatari publishing house.

Mr. Jassim Ahmed Al-Buainain, Director of the Qatari Publishers and Distributors Forum, highlighted that the “Children’s Book Designer” program aligns with the Ministry of Culture’s ongoing efforts to foster reading and writing skills among the younger generation. These efforts contribute to the realization of Qatar National Vision 2030, which aspires to build a knowledgeable and sustainable society.

Al-Buainain explained that the initiative opens new horizons for children to explore the world of writing and its various stages. Participants have written their own stories and are now in the final stages of the program, which includes editing and preparation for printing. These stories are set to be launched during Qatar National Day celebrations at Darb Al-Saai.

Ms. Asmaa Al-Kuwari, Director of the Children’s Literature Center, emphasized that the fifth edition of the “Children’s Book Designer” program aims to encourage children to read, write, create, and engage in other essential skills such as storytelling and public speaking.

She added that the program’s creative activities guide children through the organized stages of book design, starting with writing, followed by illustration, review, and editing. The ultimate goal is to empower children to design books in an innovative and appealing manner, following a methodology tailored specifically for young creators.