The Doha Institute for Graduate Studies (DI) recently marked Qatar National Day with a celebration emphasizing the nation’s cultural heritage and fostering a sense of community among its diverse student body and faculty. Held annually on December 18th, the event in Doha attracted broad participation from the Institute’s academic, administrative, and student communities. The festivities aimed to showcase Qatar’s traditions and values to both citizens and international residents.
The celebration, organized by the DI’s Communications and Public Relations Department, took place outdoors and featured a diverse program of events. Attendees enjoyed traditional performances, including the Ardha – a symbolic sword dance – alongside interactive activities and displays representing Qatari history, arts, and culinary traditions. This year’s event focused on strengthening ties between the various nationalities represented within the Institute.
Celebrating Qatari Identity Through Qatar National Day Events
Qatar National Day commemorates the historic founding of the State of Qatar in 1878 by Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani. The day holds significant importance for Qataris and is marked by nationwide displays of national pride and cultural expression. The DI’s celebration provided a localized expression of this national sentiment.
Heritage and Cultural Showcases
The event showcased several aspects of traditional Qatari life. A collection of classic and vintage Qatari cars were displayed, offering a glimpse into the nation’s automotive history. Simultaneously, falconry, an integral part of Qatari heritage, was also prominently featured. These displays aimed to connect attendees with the deep-rooted traditions of the region.
Additionally, a key element of the celebration was the opportunity to experience authentic Qatari cuisine. A lunch featuring local dishes was offered, allowing attendees to savor the flavors of Qatar. This culinary experience further enriched the cultural immersion provided during the event.
According to the Doha Institute, an interactive question-and-answer session on Qatari history with prizes encouraged active learning and engagement with the nation’s past. Poetry recitations and the performance of national songs contributed to the celebratory atmosphere and reinforced a sense of national unity.
Leadership and Community Perspectives
Dr. Abdelwahab El-Affendi, President of the Doha Institute, extended his congratulations to the Qatari leadership and its people on the occasion of National Day. He emphasized Qatar’s longstanding reputation for hospitality and its strong principles on the global stage, highlighting its role as a stable and secure nation.
Nasema Abdeen, Director of the Communications and Public Relations Department, expressed pride in hosting the “carnival-style” celebration for the entire DI community, including students, faculty, staff, and alumni. She noted the significance of the Institute’s diverse population as a unique opportunity to introduce and foster an understanding of Qatari culture and history.
Abdeen further explained that the event specifically aimed to revive authentic Qatari values and traditions, creating a space for cultural expression and reinforcing the nation’s identity. She believes events like these are an important platform for both preserving and promoting Qatar’s heritage.
The celebration, while focused internally within the DI community, aligns with broader national efforts to promote cultural tourism and understanding. Qatar has invested heavily in preserving its heritage sites and promoting traditional arts as part of its Vision 2030 plan, which aims to diversify the economy and establish a knowledge-based society. Ongoing initiatives include the restoration of Souq Waqif and the development of museums like the National Museum of Qatar.
Looking ahead, similar cultural events are likely to continue at the Doha Institute, strengthening its connection to the local community and its commitment to preserving Qatari traditions. The success of this year’s event suggests further expansion and integration of cultural activities into the Institute’s academic calendar is probable, alongside continued national celebrations throughout the country. The evolution of these events in relation to Qatar’s changing demographics and tourism goals will be a key area to watch.
