Qatar has a rich and distinct culture that brings with it a priceless heritage of many centuries. The ethnic roots of Qatari people are as varied as the many tribes that inhabited Arabia in ancient times.
Pearl Diving
Pearl diving was once a common practice and integral to the economy of Qatar and other Gulf states. Despite the month long diving trips, and the often dangerous depths of the ocean, many men in the 1940’s worked as pearl divers and were rewarded for their catches. It was common practice to sheer a pearl to get to another layer of beauty; thus traditional pearls were often asymmetrical and a range of sizes and shapes, very different from the cultured pearls which eventually dominated the industry and replaced natural pearls. |
By initiative from His Highness the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, a program has been formed to promote awareness of Qatar’s cultural heritage and stimulate new creative projects.
Museums, libraries, magnificent collections of Arabic writings, calligraphy and art are available for research and public appreciation in order to implement these objectives. The creation of new institutions for the performing arts, and a revival of creative disciplines in education will make Qatar a dynamic focus for the arts in the region.
Al Sadu
The weaving process, Al Sadu is an old Arabic term that means to stretch or extend. Creating these beautifully decorated tents, rugs, cushions and camel bags was traditionally the Bedouin women’s way of life for many generations. Wool is used from goats, sheep and camels. Camel skins’ are used for the softer applications, while goat’s wool is used to create virtually waterproof tents. |
The traditional art of boat building has been nurtured by a special Emiri workshop which was established for the building and maintenance of traditional ships to preserve the Qashafah or shipbuilding profession. One of its most impressive achievements is the construction of a large Bateel vessel by a Qatari shipbuilder (Qallaf). In addition to boat building, support is given to a wide range of traditional handicrafts including sadu tailoring, jewellery manufacture, the pearling industry and making of traditional gold and silver embellished clothing.
The country in 7th century AD was well known for its woven Qatari cloaks and fine finishing of the spears called khattiyah spears.
|
National Dress
Qataris often distinguish themselves from expatriate residents by wearing traditional clothing: the thobe, for men, and the abayah for women. There are different variations on thobes and abayahs as worn throughout the Gulf region and in countries in the Arabian Peninsula. In Qatar, men wear the thobe, a floor-length white, starched garment that begins at the neck with a pointed collar and extends in full length cuffed sleeves, and ends at the ankle or foot.
The thobe is worn with a ghutra, the male head scarf that drapes underneath a coiled black egal, a portion of the headdress that sits on top of the scarf, and over which the ends are often tossed. Head scarves are most generally white or a checkered red and white pattern. Most men wear dressy cufflinks and signature pens in their chest pockets when wearing the thobe. In most seasons, open toed sandals accompany thobes. In the winter, however, the thobes are made of heavier material, and come in different colours, the most common being brown or blue. Closed toed shoes and socks are also worn in winter and occasionally on cool days a sports jacket may sometimes be worn on top of the thobe.
Women wear an abayah which is a floor length black robe that extends to the wrists and covers the shoes. The abayah can be a plain black or embellished with embroidery, crystals, or other detail as chosen by the wearer. Designer abayahs are made by individuals and also many fashion labels, so there are often trends with abayahs as with almost any other women’s dress. The abayah is worn with a shayla that is the woman’s headdress, which when worn covers her hair, neck, and ears.
Most Qatari women choose to wear a black headdress, however, styles of head scarves, including multicoloured scarves may also be worn. Just as with the abayah, head scarves are embellished to match the pattern or detail of the abayah.
There are many different forms of veils and what a woman chooses to wear is up to her personal preference or the tradition of women in her family. Nikab, or the full-face veil, is worn over the top of the head scarf and covers all of a woman’s face except her eyes. At times the nikab also includes black gloves which the woman will wear under the sleeves of her abayah. Women wear a full or partial veil while in public places in order to maintain personal modesty.
|
|
Cuisine
With warm Arabian waters on its three sides, Qatar offers a diverse choice in seafood - tuna, shrimps, lobsters, kingfish, and red snapper are among a few. Many of their meat dishes comprise of lamb, such as Ouzi, a whole lamb which is roasted and normally served on a bed of rice with pine-nuts.
Dates
Dates are popular throughout the Middle East and many people will greet new visitors to their home with sweet dates in contrast to a bitter tea. In Summer throughout the city you can see dates hanging from palm trees. The traditional dried date also comes in many modern versions; covered in chocolate or another sweet coating or stuffed with nuts. During Ramadan, the fast is usually broken at sunset with a glass of yogurt and a date. |
There is also the popular shawarma, which is made from grilled shavings of lamb or chicken, mixed with salad and tahina sauce (an oily paste made from ground sesame seeds) and then rolled into Arab pita bread. Another popular dish is called Macchbous, which is a spicy lamb dish served with rice. Rice and cracked wheat which is called Burghul (pronounced bulgur), are found in many dishes like Tabouleh, a popular salad made with olive oil and fresh herbs and vegetables.
The milk produced from cows and goats is made into Laban (yoghurt) or Labneh (cream cheese) which are both found in supermarkets.
Other popular Arabic cuisine include:
Hummus, (A dip which is made from cooked and pureed chickpeas, blended with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and garlic.)
Koussa mahshi, (stuffed zucchini or courgette.)
Esh asaraya, meaning “Bread of Harem” (A sweet cheesecake served with a cream topping).
Mehalabiya, (A pudding sprinkled with pistachios and flavoured with rose water.)
Pita Bread, Middle Eastern flat bread which can be sliced open and filled with a variety of salads and meats. It may also be cut into slices and used as a dip for dishes such as Hummous and Baba ganoush.
Recipe for Pita Bread
You will need:
2 teaspoons of olive oil 1 packet of wheat
1 ½ cups of warm water 3 cups of flour
1 ¼ teaspoon of salt 1 tsn of sugar
Wooden spoon Rolling Pin
Pour the wheat into half a cup of warm water. (This will activate your yeast.) Add the sugar and stir gently until dissolved.
Let your mix rest for 10-15 minutes until the water becomes frothy.
Pour flour in a clean bowl, make a hole in the middle and pour in your yeast mixture. Gradually add 1 cup of water and stir in with a wooden spoon until your mixture is bound together.
Sprinkle flour onto your working surface and knead for 10-15 minutes until the dough becomes elastic.
Pour 2 teaspoons of olive oil into a clean bowl and rub in with your fingers. Place the dough into the bowl, and coat the dough with the oil by turning it over. Cover the bowl with a towel and place in a warm dry place to sit for 1 hour. The dough should double in size.
After 1 hour has passed, flour your work surface again and roll out your dough in the shape of a thick rope. Cut the dough into 8-10 strips.
With a rolling pin, roll each dough piece into flat round circles 5-6 inches wide and ¼ inch thick.
Place your baking tray on the bottom rack of your oven (500 degrees) for a couple of minutes until it heats up. Bake for 4 minutes, when the bread puffs up turn it over and cook for a further 2 minutes on the other side.
|
Harees, A traditional Arabic type stew which consists of wheat soaked overnight, meat (or chicken) and salt. It is normally served in Arab countries during the month of Ramadan and on festivals such as Eid.
Recipe for Harees - (Serves 6-8)
You will need:
200 gm whole wheat (harees), soaked overnight
500 gm boneless lamb, cubed
50 gm ghee
Salt and pepper to taste
500 ml water
1 tsp roasted cumin powder
¼ tsp cinnamon powder
Place the lamb, harees and water in a pan and cook on a low fire for approximately 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Skim the froth.
Blend the mixture by hand or using a food processor into a smooth paste, then transfer to a serving bowl.
Melt the ghee and add the cinnamon, cumin and salt and pepper to taste and then pour on top of the lamb and harees paste in the bowl and serve. |
|
|
Religion
Islam came to Qatar in 7th century AD under the rule of Al Munzir bin Sawi Al Tamimi and has since become a very integral part of the people’s lives.
Mohammed (pbuh) was the founding prophet of Islam.
The Islamic faith believes that Mohammed (pbuh) received revelations (his first being a vision from the Angel Gabriel, who declared him a prophet of God). He continued receiving revelations which were subsequently recorded, and together formed the Holy Book of the Qur’an. Qatar is an Islamic state. The Holy Qur’an not only guides the religious beliefs of Qataris, but also plays a major role in their daily life. Law, business practices and family traditions are governed by Muslim beliefs and values.
Beautiful mosques are located all over the country for daily worship, and calls to prayer are announced throughout the day; pre-dawn to post-dusk. Prayer schedules are published daily in newspapers. In addition, radio broadcasts are interrupted to announce times for prayer.
The “Arkan” Five Pillars of Islam, are individual duties which must be performed by Muslims to pronounce their faith in Allah.
Shahadah (Profession of Faith)
This is a creed of submission, and ideally the first words a newborn should hear. Children are taught this creed from a very young age. This prayer is used throughout a Muslims life, and can be heard in the “adhan” call to prayer.
Salah (Ritual Prayer)
An obligatory prayer performed in Arabic, 5 times a day at fixed times: dawn, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset and nightfall. This ritual is performed facing Mecca. The Salah is carried out at work and at home.
Hajj (Pilgrim to Mecca)
The Hajj is a pilgrimage which occurs during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah, to the city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Again it is obligatory that all healthy men and women perform this ritual once. It includes walking seven times around the Kaaba (cubicle black stone structure which stands in the centre of the holy mosque).
Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan)
This is a form of fasting which takes place in the 9th month of the Islamic calendar. It is performed from dawn until dusk, and lasts for 30 days depending on the first sighting of the new moon. All Muslims must perform this act of fasting, and must sustain from food and drink between these periods. Exceptions are made for young children, some medical conditions, menstruating, pregnant or breast feeding woman, and the elderly.
Zakah (Alms Tax)
This is a mandatory tax required of every adult Muslim with more than sufficient means to get by. It is a holy method of providing for the poor and needy, and is considered an admirable action. The percentage contributed is calculated on your wealth and income.
The Holy month of Ramadan is very important to Muslims. The devout fast daily between sunrise and sunset, to help concentrate deeply and reflectively during prayers and meditations. Expatriates must respect the customs and traditions of the Islamic religion, particularly during Ramadan. There are strict rules and potentially heavy fines levied regarding drinking, eating and smoking in public during daylight.
Islam is the only officially recognized religion in the country. However, Qataris are generally tolerant toward other religious beliefs. Many church groups hold weekly services, though out of respect and deference to the host country, no distinguishing religious signage is displayed on the exterior of any building. |
|
Dances
Men display the unity and strength of Qataris in the Ardha, a dance performed with swords, especially during special occasions like Eid and Independence Day. The Ardha traces its origins to bedouin days and is also performed in neighbouring countries like Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. It is a slow movement dance meant to mimic men on horseback in battle. It is a beautiful combination of poetry and dance; with a poet moving back and forth between two lines of singers and dancers. The traditional lyrics, the poet gives each group of singers a line to repeat before moving across to the other group, are of chivalry and strength and adapted to each occasion.
Razeef is a Bedu dance for men performed in two facing lines, singing eight-bar verses at each other, backed by two kinds of drum, the tubal and the tara.
Masked women dance to the beat of music in a dance called Khammary. It has light romantic lyrics based on love poems and is well liked at the weddings. Other dances performed by women are Sameri and Ashouri.
|
|
Architecture
The country's climate and topography influences the structural design of the buildings.
The Wind Tower - Souq Waqif
The Wind Tower dates back to 1935. The open arches of the stone tower provide ventilation and help in cooling the interiors. It has now been converted into an Ethnographic museum that concentrates on the Qatari life before the oil boom. |
The materials found locally were used in olden days, but today Qatar imports most of its construction needs.
Mosques
Qatar has a rich architectural heritage - Doha alone has some 700 mosques (masjid) and the most famous amongst them is the multi-dome Grand Mosque.
Mosques are the center for religious and charity activities. A dome and a minaret form an integral part of it.
Prophet Mohammed's (pbuh) mud-walled courtyard enclosed house in Medina formed the basis for the mosque formation in 7th century AD.
The mosque courtyard sahn is a gathering place for the community while the position of mehrab in the prayer hall shows the direction of Mecca, and to its right stands the minbar, a platform. Muezzin uses the minaret to call (Adhan) the faithful for the prayers five times a day. Some mosques also have a women's praying area called Musalla al Sayedat.
Qatari Houses
Earlier clay was used to bind stones and in some places, where stones were hard to find, clay bricks were used. With time gypsum replaced clay and wooden frames were used in ceilings.
To reduce heat, levelled roofs protruded in the facade and to avoid intense sunlight houses were built with small windows. Ventilation and lighting grills called Badjirs were used only in the top floors. Today all houses use air-conditioning.
The traditional Qatari houses have inner courtyards with a majlis near the gate where all male guests are entertained. Usually a fountain adorns the main entrance of the house with shaded trees planted all around the courtyard. These houses also have a high concrete wall around them to ensure full privacy from passersby.
The houses have beautiful carved balconies, giving it a traditional look, but are not used to often due to the heat. Most Qatari homes have a pool and a servant's quarter.
Don't be surprised if you see two similar bungalows side-by-side; very often close relatives build identical houses adjacently.
|
|
People
In Qatari tradition the group of related families form a clan that is a part of a larger tribe, and tribes are large extended families. Each tribe has distinct customs, speech and dress but with time it has converged into the modern society that we see today. Still the ties within tribes and families remain very strong and Qataris hold family values very dear to their hearts.
In the past some of the tribes were nomadic and lived in the desert but today many have moved to the cities and hold good positions in the private and government sector.
Henna
Henna is natural plant dye used for decorating the hair and body. Women in the Middle East, South Asia, and Northern Africa apply henna in intricate designs on their hands and feet either as brides or attending women and on other special occasions. Henna parties are common a few days before a wedding as the bride will gather with her close female friends and family to celebrate her impending nuptials. |
As a tradition Qataris marry within the tribe and it is a matter of family and business. Earlier all marriages were arranged but now the trend has changed and young Qataris sometimes even seek marriage bureaus and online help to search for the right partner.
Girls were married very young in yester years. Now emphasis is on education and the statistics show that there are considerably more female than male students attending Universities.
Qataris are known for their hospitality and warmth. Males receive their male guests at home in a majlis (reception area). Traditionally, according to the Bedouin custom, they were seated on large cushions on the floor. These days sofas and chairs are commonly used. Women have a separate area in the house to meet their friends. Qatari men and women rarely socialise together.
|
|
|
