Katara transforms into maritime heritage hub as Dhow Festival opens

Doha, Qatar: Under the patronage of the Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the fifteenth edition of the Katara Traditional Dhow Festival commenc...

Doha, Qatar: Under the patronage of the Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the fifteenth edition of the Katara Traditional Dhow Festival commenced at Katara’s Southern Area ‘Fereej Katara’, drawing large crowds from across the country and the region.

The event runs until December 18, 2025, hosting participation from 12 countries: Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the UAE, Palestine, India, Iran, Tanzania, Iraq, and Sudan, transforming Katara into a vibrant cultural hub and underscoring the festival’s esteemed regional status.

The Director General of the Katara Cultural Village Foundation H E Professor Dr. Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, said during the opening: “The Katara Traditional Dhow Festival is a prominent cultural and heritage event that has established itself as a key platform for celebrating maritime heritage and preserving the collective memory and traditional crafts of our nations.”

“This year, we have expanded the festival’s area more than ever before, allowing visitors to enjoy a richer and more diverse experience, while offering artisans, researchers, and heritage enthusiasts greater space to showcase their skills and craftsmanship. We also take pride in the broad participation of friendly and brotherly countries, reflecting Katara’s cultural prominence and the international community’s confidence in its role,” he added.