Children take part in a contest to memorise parts of the Holy Quran, as part of Ramadan activities, at the Katara Mosque.
Doha: The public has commended the initiatives of government as well as private organisations in maintaining this holy month’s culture through a selection of Ramadan activities and events taking place around the country.
At the beginning of Ramadan, the Cultural Village Foundation, Katara planned 23 programmes ranging from sports to educational seminars to art workshops. The festivities, according to Muhammad from Sudan, is a proof that the country preserves and promotes its traditions. “Thank you to our Qatari brothers for passing on this heritage to the next generation. Ramadan Mubarak to everyone!”
“We make it a point to visit Katara at least twice a month because my two children like coming here. It’s also impressive to see how the village preserves not just Qatar’s cultural legacy but also that of other countries. We’ve gone to a lot of art exhibitions and activities here, and there’s always something fresh every time,” Ajish, an Indian expat, said.
Meanwhile, Lusail Boulevard, a popular attraction during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, is hosting a variety of events during Ramadan, including a car show or parade before Iftar, Ramadan tents, food options, and a Ramadan cannon.
The car parade is being held daily from 3:30pm, featuring sports and vintage cars. The event is being held in collaboration with Mawater Motors Qatar.
Razania, who visited Lusail Boulevard on the fourth day of Ramadan, said she and her family chose the area for Iftar because of the vivid decorations and variety of food options.
“When you see the lamp décor hanging on the street, you get the impression that it is truly Ramadan, and the colorful lights testify to the tradition of the holy month itself.” An expatriate from Jordan, she described this year’s Ramadan as “unique.”
“We sense the community’s cohesiveness and affection now, compared to prior years, while also remembering the core of the holy month.”
The old traditional market Souq Waqif is also no stranger when it comes to cultural heritage. Even before the Ramadan cannon in Al Ahmad square is fired, a huge number of people, both residents and visitors, have been visiting the marketplace.
Souq Waqif has stayed loyal to its goal to conserve not just Qatari traditions through its architecture, garments, spices, and handicrafts, but also the age-old Ramadan customs and traditions, said Ali from the United Kingdom.
“We are in 2023, and these traditions are still being cherished. It is commendable because one should not always disregard the past.”
Apart from Katara, Lusail Boulevard, and Souq Waqif, other areas have arranged Ramadan festivities, including Souq Al Wakra, Msheireb Downtown Doha, Corniche, Al Maha Island, and The Pearl-Qatar.
