As Qatar National Day approaches this December, and the blockade of Qatar passes its six month mark, it is abundantly clear that this year’s celebrations will stand out, as the day takes on a greater meaning for the country’s residents.

With the theme ‘Promise of Prosperity and Glory’, Qatar National Day celebrations will commence this Saturday, the 9th of December, at Darb Al Saai, and will continue for 10 days across the country in various forms. 

Darb Al Saai, which can be translated as the “Route of the Messenger”, is a distinctive feature of Qatar National Day’s customary festivities. 

Several government organisations and ministries have lined up a host of activities.

The Ministry of Defense (MoD) is participating in the QND celebrations for the first time with a special pavilion titled ‘Defense Camp.’

Qatar Foundation (QF) will also host a tent at the venue, where visitors may join the festivities and take part in a range of engaging activities designed to showcase national pride.

Similarly, the Police College will participate in QND celebrations with a series of activities. Their participation reflects the QND’s vision to promote loyalty, solidarity and unity in the country.

Al Shaqab is all set to unveil its new brand identity this weekend at Darb al Saai. They will host a number of activities, including pony rides and, for the first time, a dedicated riding area for ladies!

Here's a daily schedule:

When:
Saturday, 9th December - Wednesday, 20th December, 2017

Where:
The Darb Al Saai venue, located opposite Al Sadd Police Station

Embrace Doha, a Qatari company specialising in cultural events, is partnering up with Katara for an eight-day National Day Festival aimed at showing support to Qatar amid the current blockade by offering a special set of events and activities to visitors at the Cultural Village Foundation – Katara.

The festival, called 'Labaih Ya Amir' (Here I am, at your service, oh Emir) will comprise of four sections called Culture, Education, Entertainment and Local Village.

The Local Village section will showcase local products by Qatari businesses that help boost the country’s economy in its drive to self sufficiency in light of the present situation.

The Culture section will include a VIP and welcoming tent featuring authentic Qatari hospitality, a handicraft section with live demonstrations of how Qatari handmade products are created, an ardah performance and a henna section.

The Education section will include a calligraphy booth, a photoshoot corner where you can have your photo taken in traditional Qatari garb, and a stage where high profile guests will speak on important topics in relation to National Day.

The Entertainment section will feature a stage where families can take part in fun activities and watch the military show, poetry, and traditional dance. It will also include a Kids Club with arts and crafts, face painting and movie screenings for children.

When:
Tuesday, 12th December - Tuesday, 19th December, 2017
04:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Where:
Katara Esplanade

Image credits:

Cover image - The Daily Q

Inline image 2 - Katara Cultural Village