Qatar recently marked the International Day of Intangible Cultural Heritage with a series of events that highlighted the nation’s deep commitment to preserving its cultural traditions. The celebrations, coordinated by the Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the Qatar National Commission for Education, Culture and Science and the UNESCO Regional Office in Doha, saw the attendance of prominent figures such as HE Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad al-Thani, Minister of Culture, and HE Lolwah bint Rashid bin Mohammed AlKhater, Minister of Education and Higher Education.
Heritage Photo Exhibition Showcases Qatar’s Cultural Legacy
As part of the commemoration, HE AlKhater inaugurated a heritage photo exhibition that beautifully captured the essence of Qatar’s intangible cultural heritage. The exhibition featured a curated collection of photographs documenting traditional crafts, performing arts, and social gatherings, reflecting the richness of Qatari heritage.
Additionally, an art exhibition dedicated to school students was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Education. This initiative showcased artwork inspired by Qatari intangible heritage, demonstrating how the younger generation is embracing and creatively interpreting their cultural identity. Schools such as Qatar Leadership Academy, Qatar Primary School for Girls, Qatar Secondary School, and Voltaire Qatari-French School participated, with many pieces highlighting Qatari heritage through a modern lens.
The Importance of Safeguarding Intangible Heritage
HE Sheikha Najla Faisal al-Thani, Director of Heritage and Identity at the Ministry of Culture, emphasised the profound significance of intangible cultural heritage as the foundation of a nation’s identity. She reiterated that intangible heritage is not just a cultural asset but also an important means of fostering mutual understanding and promoting cultural diversity globally. Qatar continues to prioritise the safeguarding of its heritage, viewing it as integral to its national identity and the spirit of its society.
Efforts to protect Qatari heritage are extensive. The Ministry has undertaken several projects to document and inventory various components of Qatar’s cultural history, including folk arts, traditional crafts, and literature. These initiatives are supported by a range of festivals, training workshops, and collaborations with local artisans, aiming to pass down skills across generations.
Qatar’s Global Role in Heritage Preservation
Qatar’s commitment to heritage preservation extends beyond its borders. The country is actively involved in UNESCO initiatives, registering significant elements of its cultural heritage, such as falconry, majlis gatherings, Arabic coffee, the palm tree, and henna. These efforts are part of Qatar’s broader aim to unite Gulf and Arab nations in safeguarding shared cultural practices, strengthening regional ties.
Qatar’s leadership in the protection of Arab heritage is evident in its ongoing efforts to register cultural elements like the bisht (traditional cloak) and sambuq (traditional sailing boat) with UNESCO. These actions underline Qatar’s crucial role in the global conversation around cultural preservation.
A Continued Commitment to Future Generations
The celebration of intangible cultural heritage in Qatar serves as a reminder of the need to preserve these traditions for future generations. While modernisation poses challenges to the transmission of cultural practices, Qatar remains determined to safeguard its heritage in a way that respects both tradition and contemporary innovation.
As Dr Khalid Rashid al-Balushi, Senior Cultural Expert at the Qatar National Committee for Education, Culture and Science, explained, the committee plays a pivotal role in connecting global, regional, and national entities to strengthen collective efforts in cultural preservation. Qatar continues to lead important cultural heritage files and is preparing additional nominations for UNESCO recognition.
At the UN House in Doha, the ongoing fourth Art, Fashion, and Cultural Diplomacy Exhibition further exemplifies Qatar’s engagement with global cultural movements. The exhibition features over 120 artworks, showcasing the reinterpretation of Qatari heritage by local artists and students. This event runs until October 23, underscoring Qatar’s enduring commitment to its cultural heritage and its role on the global cultural stage.
For more insights into Qatar’s cultural initiatives, read about how the Qatar Foundation is supporting local art forms.
