Doha, Qatar – The 15th annual Katara Traditional Dhow Festival commenced on November 27, 2025, at Katara’s Southern Area, attracting large crowds and participants from twelve nations. Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the festival celebrates Qatar’s rich maritime heritage and provides a platform for cultural exchange. The event runs through December 18, 2025, and promises a diverse program of activities for visitors of all ages.
The festival’s opening drew attendees from across Qatar and the wider region, highlighting its growing regional significance. According to the Katara Cultural Village Foundation, this year’s event features an expanded footprint, offering more space for artisans, researchers, and cultural displays. Participating countries include Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the UAE, Palestine, India, Iran, Tanzania, Iraq, and Sudan.
Celebrating Qatar’s Maritime Heritage with the Dhow Festival
The Katara Traditional Dhow Festival aims to preserve and promote the seafaring traditions of the Gulf region. Professor Dr. Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, Director General of Katara, emphasized the festival’s role in celebrating maritime heritage and safeguarding the collective memory of participating nations. The dhow, a traditional wooden sailing vessel, historically played a crucial role in trade, pearling, and transportation throughout the Arabian Gulf.
A Diverse Program of Events
The festival offers a wide array of activities, including folk performances, live workshops, and exhibits showcasing ancient navigation tools and traditional shipbuilding techniques. Rowing and fishing competitions are being held along Katara Beach, alongside heritage exhibitions and marine contests. Traditional markets feature the work of local artisans, offering unique crafts and goods.
Additionally, a dedicated family area provides educational and recreational activities for children, such as fishing competitions, drawing workshops, and miniature boat races. Major competitions, including Al-Midaf pulling, sailboat races, and Buraikha races, are taking place in the main arena. A heritage majlis hosts seminars and lectures featuring researchers and experts discussing the history and legacy of Gulf maritime traditions.
Craftsmen and participants expressed their appreciation for the event’s organization and support. Khaled Al-Amri, an Omani exhibitor, noted the excellent facilities provided to participants and the opportunity to connect with customers. Moustafa Al-Fardan, a pearl diver and author from the UAE, highlighted the festival’s importance in showcasing the UAE’s deep-rooted maritime history and cultural identity. He emphasized the historical significance of dhows in shaping the Gulf’s identity.
Visitors also shared their positive experiences. A tourist from Scotland, visiting Qatar on a stopover, expressed amazement at the festival, noting it as a unique opportunity to experience local culture and connect with both locals and fellow travelers. He observed that Qatar successfully blends tradition with modern development.
The event is expected to boost cultural tourism in Qatar, attracting visitors interested in experiencing the country’s heritage. The festival also supports local artisans and promotes traditional crafts, contributing to the preservation of Gulf culture. The increased participation from international countries further solidifies Katara’s position as a leading cultural hub.
As the festival progresses, organizers will continue to monitor attendance and gather feedback to improve future events. The final day, December 18th, will feature award ceremonies for the various competitions. The long-term impact of the festival on promoting maritime heritage and cultural understanding remains to be seen, but it is anticipated to continue as a key event on Qatar’s cultural calendar.
