Doha, Qatar – Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani visited the Darb Al Saai events on Sunday, December 17th, as part of the ongoing Qatar National Day celebrations. The annual festivities, held under the theme “With You It Rises, From You It Awaits,” showcase Qatar’s heritage and culture. The Prime Minister’s visit underscores the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting national identity.
The event, taking place across various locations in Doha, aims to engage citizens and residents in interactive experiences that highlight Qatari traditions. Sheikh Mohammed toured the numerous pavilions, gaining insight into the diverse range of cultural programs and activities offered. This year’s celebrations are particularly significant following Qatar’s successful hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2022.
Celebrating Qatari Heritage at Darb Al Saai
Darb Al Saai, a central component of the Qatar National Day celebrations, has become a cornerstone event for showcasing the nation’s rich history and traditions. According to the Ministry of Culture, the event features displays of traditional crafts, performances of folk music and dance, and exhibits detailing Qatar’s historical development. The goal is to connect younger generations with their cultural roots.
Interactive Experiences and Cultural Programs
The Prime Minister was briefed on the interactive nature of the exhibits, designed to actively involve attendees. These experiences include demonstrations of traditional Qatari skills, such as weaving and pottery, and opportunities to learn about the country’s maritime history. Additionally, the event incorporates modern technologies to present cultural information in an engaging format.
The celebrations also emphasize the importance of societal values and national unity. Minister of Culture Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al-Thani accompanied the Prime Minister during the visit, demonstrating the ministry’s central role in organizing and overseeing the event. The presence of numerous officials further highlighted the national importance of the occasion.
The event’s theme, “With You It Rises, From You It Awaits,” reflects Qatar’s vision for the future, emphasizing the role of its citizens in continued progress and development. This message is woven throughout the various displays and performances at Darb Al Saai. The celebrations also serve as a reminder of the nation’s resilience and its commitment to preserving its unique identity in a rapidly changing world.
Meanwhile, the broader National Day festivities include parades, fireworks displays, and cultural performances across Doha. These events are open to the public and attract large crowds of both citizens and expatriate residents. The celebrations are a key component of Qatar’s national calendar and contribute to a sense of community and pride.
In contrast to previous years, this year’s celebrations have placed a greater emphasis on digital engagement, with online platforms offering virtual tours of Darb Al Saai and live streams of key events. This initiative aims to broaden access to the celebrations and reach a wider audience, particularly those unable to attend in person. The use of technology also aligns with Qatar’s broader efforts to become a digitally advanced nation.
The success of the FIFA World Cup 2022 has undoubtedly boosted national morale and provided a platform to showcase Qatari culture to a global audience. The Qatar National Day celebrations build upon this momentum, reinforcing the nation’s identity and values. The event also provides an opportunity to reflect on the country’s achievements and look ahead to future aspirations.
Looking ahead, organizers will assess the feedback from this year’s celebrations to inform planning for future events. The Ministry of Culture is expected to release a comprehensive report detailing the event’s impact and outlining recommendations for improvement. Further details regarding next year’s National Day theme and program are anticipated to be announced in the coming months, with potential adjustments based on evolving national priorities and public interest.

