Post by : Maya Rahman

The 15th Traditional Dhow Festival officially commenced on Thursday evening in Katara, under the auspices of HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The opening ceremony took place in the southern part of Katara, drawing the attendance of numerous dignitaries, ambassadors, and cultural representatives. This year’s festivities will run until December 18 and are backed by the Social and Sports Activities Support Fund, known as Daam.

The festival this year features participants from 12 nations including Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the UAE, Palestine, India, Iran, Tanzania, Iraq, and Sudan. Notably, Sudan is participating for the first time with a distinctive pavilion showcasing its natural reserves, traditional crafts, and a selection of Sudanese cuisine. This wide-ranging participation reflects the rich tapestry of cultures and the depth of maritime traditions that are central to the festival.

Dr. Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, the Director General of the Katara Cultural Village Foundation, remarked that the festival has secured its place as a key cultural and heritage event in the region. He noted that the Katara Traditional Dhow Festival serves as a vital venue for celebrating maritime history, honoring community memory, and sustaining traditional crafts. The event embodies Katara's dedication to preserving heritage and ensuring its continuation for future generations. Dr. Al Sulaiti added that the festival plays a crucial role in linking the past with the present while reinforcing Gulf and Arab identity in a meaningful manner.

He further affirmed that the efforts in organizing this festival display Katara’s strong commitment to heritage preservation. He pointed out that maritime heritage is an essential aspect of history that remains an active part of the cultural identity cherished today. Through this event, Katara is reaffirmed as a regional hub for culture, heritage, and knowledge.

The festival offers an expansive program aimed at attracting visitors of all ages, featuring folk performances, live demonstrations, and exhibitions displaying traditional navigation tools, shipbuilding techniques, and various types of dhows. These wooden vessels are powerful symbols of the region’s seafaring legacy and represent a lifestyle that has shaped its identity through the ages.

Visitors can partake in numerous cultural activities, including rowing and fishing contests, heritage exhibitions, and maritime competitions held along Katara Beach. The traditional craft markets stand out as another highlight, allowing artisans to showcase their skills while offering guests insights into authentic Gulf craftsmanship. These markets play a pivotal role in preserving techniques passed down through generations and are integral to cultural heritage.

Children and families also find a special focus at the festival. Young visitors can engage in drawing workshops, boat races, and a family fishing competition. These initiatives aim to educate children on the Gulf’s maritime history, foster creativity, and enhance family involvement in cultural endeavors. Organizers hope these experiences will nurture national pride and a greater appreciation for heritage among younger generations.

Beyond entertainment and workshops, the festival features key competitions like oar pulling, sailing, and traditional fishing. These events echo the skills and strength historically demanded from seafarers who relied on dhows for trade, fishing, and extended sea voyages.

The Heritage Majlis, another significant segment of the festival, hosts seminars and lectures from researchers and experts. These discussions delve into maritime cultural history, the craftsmanship of dhows, and the enduring influence of these traditions within Gulf societies. As such, the festival functions not only as a celebration but also as a platform for learning, preserving knowledge, and fostering cultural exchange.

With its annual growth, the Katara Traditional Dhow Festival continues to bolster its standing as a premier heritage event within the Gulf region, reminding all of the rich maritime legacy that has contributed to shaping Qatar's identity and that of its neighbors.

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