The Watan Exercise 2024, set to take place from November 10 to 13, is an annual event that aims to enhance operational synergy and effective execution of joint tasks among military, security, and civil entities in Qatar. Under the patronage of Minister of Interior and Commander of the Internal Security Force, H E Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the exercise will involve over 70 entities and security forces from Italy. The main goal of the exercise is to efficiently address potential risks in both normal and emergency situations, ultimately ensuring security and public safety.
The four-day exercise will feature over 55 scenarios and training simulations covering various risks and challenges. The announcement was made by the Watan Exercise Department at a press conference held at the headquarters of the Internal Security Force (Lekhwiya). According to Staff Brigadier Mubarak Shraida Al Kaabi, Chairman of the Permanent Joint Exercises Committee, the scenarios and training simulations have been developed through strategic studies and plans by a team of experts. This year’s exercise builds upon the successes and results of previous versions, reflecting the commitment of all participating parties in achieving the general objectives.
Commander Mohammed Ahmed Jaber Abdullah provided insight into the exercise’s timeline, which consists of six stages, including the Preliminary Phase, Readiness Phase, Preparation Phase, Office-based Execution Phase, Field-based Execution Phase, and Concluding Phase. The exercise will take place at various locations across the state, including land, sea, and air entry points, military installations, tourist sites, operations centers, residential areas, main roads, shopping centers, and other designated areas. This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of security and public safety are addressed.
The involvement of civil sectors in Watan Exercise 2024 is seen as a strategic step to assess and test operational and emergency plans. Participating agencies aim to enhance and update effective response procedures through realistic scenario simulations. This approach allows participants to apply procedures and standards that ensure an effective and rapid response. Mohammed Ahmed Al Dahi, Director of Public Relations and Communications at the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, emphasized the importance of activating the command and control mechanism to achieve the integration of roles and implement tasks quickly.
The participation of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change in the exercise provides an opportunity to measure and test emergency operational plans, as well as develop and update effective response procedures. Through active participation in workshops and office and field exercises, the ministry aims to achieve common strategic goals. By simulating realistic scenarios, Watan Exercise 2024 enables military and civilian agencies in the country to enhance integration of roles and implement required tasks efficiently. The exercise plays a crucial role in promoting coordination and integration of efforts among various entities to ensure security and public safety in Qatar.
