by Dr. Abdulghani Al-Shuaibi
Community College of Qatar
English Language Center – ELC
Qatar National Day (QND) is a public holiday, which Qatari people celebrate on the 18th of December every year. This year, it bears a special significance, as Qataries rally together in support and pride of their nation. On this day, the State of Qatar commemorates the founder of the state, Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani, who appealed to the tribes of the peninsula for unity, and successfully rallied them into unified people in 1878. On Qatar National Day, celebrations are held in different places around Doha, such as Darb Al Saai grounds, Equestrian Club, West End Park, Museum of Islamic Art Park and Katara. However, the focal point is always the Doha’s Corniche, where lanterns, illuminated palm trees, and flags are lining the waterfront road.
Doha’s Corniche is the centric point for the QND. On National Day, there are three parades: air parade, marine parade and ground parade, where the Emir and the people can connect. During the ground parade, the Emir greets his people by waving at them, shaking their hands, and embracing children. As part of the ceremony, a huge flag of Qatar is raised. In addition, the internal security force ‘’Lekhwiya‘’ performs a parachuting show; one which the attendees can participate in by boarding a helicopter at the Katara beach.
Darb Al Saai is another exciting locationfor many activities during the QND. It is located in the Al Sadd area. Here, people celebrate QND by holding school contests, riding horses and camels, singing traditional songs, and dancing. In addition, people can purchase items from various booths and stalls. In Darb Al Saai, many governmental sectors offer handicrafts for all children while playing traditional Bedouin games. Qatari people show up to Darb Al Saai in cars bearing special QND decorations to gather and march. At night, fireworks explode in the atmosphere.
In Souq Waqif, many shops celebrate the QND by offering special gifts to their customers and visitors. Sweet shops offer traditional sweets and snacks, while, clothes shops and stores offer traditional clothes, such as ghutra for men and batola for women. For those not shopping, there is a stage to entertain people with Ardah, a stylized martial dance performed by two rows of dancers, who are accompanied by an array of percussion instruments including al-Ras (a large drum whose leather is heated by an open fire), tambourines, cymbals, and small drums.
The 18th December is an important day for The State of Qatar and its citizens, but all are welcome to share in its spirit. It is a day of festivity, food and excitement. So choose a location and have some fun!
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