Katara Traditional Dhow Festival kicks off
THE 10th edition of the Katara Traditional Dhow Festival opened at the esplanade of the Cultural Village Foundation-Katara on Tuesday, with traditional handicrafts, miniature dhows and an array of maritime heritage collections on display.
Minister of State and President of the Qatar National Library HE Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kuwari, former Minister of Energy and Industry HE Dr Mohamed bin Saleh Al Sada, General Manager of Cultural Village Foundation — Katara Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, ambassadors and other dignitaries marked the
opening day by taking a ride in a traditional dhow boat.
Set at the majestic Katara beachfront, the event recreated the hustle and bustle of
an ancient maritime market place with the special pavilions of traditional handicrafts and featured activities including traditional sea fishing methods,
dhow boat activities and music by the Omani Folk Band.
It highlights authentic maritime traditions inspired by Qatar’s ancestral past. Apart from Qatar, the participating countries are Kuwait, Oman, Iraq, India and Tanzania.
THE festival highlights authentic maritime traditions inspired by Qatar’s ancestral past. Apart from Qatar, the participating countries are Kuwait, Oman, Iraq, India and Tanzania.
“The festival has reached the hearts and soul of visitors and heritage lovers who includes citizens and residents of all nationalities in Qatar. This festival, through heritage, history and storytelling, brings alive folklore to the people through the distinctive activities that also contribute to the spread of culture as well as reflecting contemporary generations,” Dr Sulaiti said.
He said the festival is being held with all precautionary measures in place within the framework of the plan for the gradual lifting of coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions.
He stressed that the festival plays a prominent role in keeping the older and younger generations bonded in culture and heritage, and showcases the heritage of Qatar’s maritime past and present, and also that of other participating countries.
Other dhow festival activities which will entertain visitors until December 5 are workshops showcasing shipbuilding process and ancient craft, storytelling, traditional stage shows and marine competitions Al Shoush, Al Haddaq and Al Tafris.