Minister of Culture inaugurates National Day activities at Darb Al Saai

Doha, Qatar: Qatar’s flag, Al Adaam, was hoisted in the main square of Darb Al Saai yesterday, marking the start of the heritage and cultural events that enhance the national identity on this occasion, amidst a large audience of citizens and residents who were keen to be present to enjoy the distinctive national and heritage atmosphere.

Minister of Culture H E Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al Thani inaugurated the activities of the National Day of Qatar 2024, which falls on December 18 of each year, at Darb Al Saai in the Umm Salal area, which is being organised by the Ministry of Culture from December 10 to 18.

Minister of Culture H E Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al Thani (centre, front) with Minister of Communications and Information Technology H E Mohammed bin Ali Al Manna (left, front) and other officials during the event.

The opening ceremony was attended by a number of Their Excellencies the Ministers, Ambassadors to the State and officials who toured a number of events at Darb Al Saai.

The Ministry of Culture has ensured that Darb Al Saai this year includes a large number of cultural and heritage events, through corners and open spaces that take visitors, both citizens and residents, to a lively atmosphere that reflects Qatari culture, as it witnesses the holding of 15 main events distributed over 104 events.

Assistant Undersecretary for Cultural Affairs at the Ministry of Culture Dr. Ghanem bin Mubarak Al Ali, said that Darb Al Saai activities are one of the most prominent aspects of celebrating Qatar’s National Day, as they reflect the spirit of belonging and loyalty to the homeland, and embody the solid values on which the state has been based since its establishment.

He added that Darb Al Saai represents a unique cultural and heritage platform that highlights Qatar’s history and ancient heritage, through various activities that combine cultural, heritage, entertainment and educational aspects.

Al Ali noted that this occasion aims to enhance the national identity and authentic Qatari values, through activities and programmes targeting all segments of society, which contributes to strengthening the connection between current generations and the heritage of their ancestors.

He said that Darb Al Saai is not just a celebration, but a national message that carries meanings of pride in the past and aspiration for a bright future under wise leadership, stressing the Ministry of Culture’s keenness to ensure that the activities and events held at Darb Al Saai embody the richness and diversity of Qatari culture.

This year, Darb Al Saai includes a number of cultural and heritage activities and events, most notably: the Qatari House, the main theater, Liwan Al Fan, Al Bidda, Al Maqtar, Al Ezba, Al Shaqab, Darb Al Saai Track, Al Meesir, Puppet Theater, Desert Museum, Qatari Note Museum, Qatar Reads, Interactive Games Area, Souq, Al Meez, in addition to the “Sana Qatar” event, which is being held for the first time. It is a digital art exhibition that focuses on video experiences using advanced display technologies and dazzling digital content.

Darb Al Saai events also include a live cooking competition under the theme “Qatari Flavour”, highlighting the identity of Qatari cuisine. The competition prizes are as follows: first place QR80,000, second place QR60,000, and third place QR40,000.