Santhosh Chandran
DOHA
The art of dhow-making using traditional technology is stealing the spotlight at the Katara International Dhow Festival. At the festival, the craftsmen also demonstrate the making of fishing nets, handicrafts and toy dhows for visitors. Marine competitions are another highlight of the event.
A dhow-maker from Oman said, "Here, you can experience the combination of science, art and technology in the making of traditional dhows.Arab mariners have adopted various technologies from different countries as they extensively travelled across the world in the ancient times.”
More than 12 varieties of dhows are exhibited at the festival. There had been more than 80 types of dhows, ranging from big ocean-going vessels to small inshore fishing boats, in the Arabian Gulf.
An exhibitor from Kuwait, who has been participating in the festival for more than three years, said, "Dhows played a vital role in connecting peoples of the world. Qatar’s initiative to protect the heritage and tradition of dhow-making has to be appreciated. The event offers an opportunity for people to learn about this ancient tradition.”
"This year, we are displaying this tradition before the global community. A large number of visitors spend long hours with us clearing many queries. FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 has offered a golden opportunity for us to showcase this tradition before the international community,” an exhibitor from India said.
The festival also puts spotlight on the process of fish preservation and the life of fishermen community in the region.
The Katara International Dhow Festival, which highlights the maritime traditions and cultural heritage of Arab states, is a major attraction for football fans who are in Qatar to attend the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
The festival also hosts exciting artistic and musical events as well as marine shows and competitions that shed light on the maritime history of the region, aiming at preserving the culture and heritage.