The first Pakistan Mango Festival ‘Al Hamba’ kicked off at Souq Waqif in Doha, Qatar, yesterday. The festival features around 50 companies with 100 stalls, offering a wide variety of Pakistani mangoes, including popular types such as Sindhri, Chaunsa, Safeed Chaunsa, Anwar Ratool, and Duseri as well as seasonal fruits like falsa, jamun, and peaches. The festival was inaugurated by the Director of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs H E Ambassador Ibrahim Yousif Abdullah Fakhroo, Ambassador of Pakistan to Qatar H E Muhemmed Aejaz, and Managing Director of Private Engineering Office H E Nasser Rashid Al Nuaimi.
Organized by the Celebrations Committee of the Private Engineering Office in collaboration with the Embassy of Pakistan, the festival will run from June 27 to July 6 from 4pm to 9pm daily. The General Supervisor of the festival, Khalid Saif Al Suwaidi, mentioned that the festival is being held after the harvesting season of mangoes in Pakistan. The event aims to showcase various types of mangoes, juices, sweets, and pickles imported exclusively for the festival from Pakistan, with more varieties expected to be imported daily.
Speaking to The Peninsula, Khalid Saif Al Suwaidi highlighted that Pakistani mangoes are highly popular in the Qatari community and are expected to attract a large number of visitors. The festival is being held in a spacious air-conditioned tent equipped with all the necessary services for the comfort of the visitors. The Organizing Committee, in coordination with the Ministry of Public Health and Ministry of Municipality, ensures the quality of mangoes and products displayed at the festival.
Ambassador of Pakistan to Qatar H E Muhemmed Aejaz expressed excitement about launching the first Pakistani mango show in Doha, showcasing eight varieties of high-quality mangoes. With over 300 varieties of mangoes, Pakistan is one of the largest producers and exporters of mangoes globally, known for its superior quality. A total of 48 companies are participating in the festival, showcasing various Pakistani mango varieties along with food products made from mangoes.
The Ambassador mentioned that the festival not only focuses on selling mangoes but also aims to enhance cultural and commercial linkages with potential importers in Qatar. He emphasized the importance of Souq Waqif as a wonderful place for families to visit and enjoy the festival. The event is expected to provide a delightful experience for visitors, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and culinary delights of Pakistan through its beloved mangoes.
