The Expo 2023 Theater in Doha hosts heritage performances from various Islamic countries during the month of Ramadan (Al Jazeera)

Doha -

Expo 2023 in Doha during the holy month of Ramadan is filled with a sense of spirituality and joy, as it has turned into a distinctive destination rich in events and experiences.

With the advent of sunset, the atmosphere of the Holy Month begins to appear more clearly, carrying with it fresh Ramadan breezes, and while the voice of the muezzin flows throughout the place, calling for the Maghrib prayer to be performed, Ramadan lanterns decorate the exhibition’s pavilions, and the scent of oud spreads throughout it.

Tarawih prayers are held in a large tent specially created for this occasion.

After Tarawih prayers, various activities begin, as the exhibition presents throughout the month of Ramadan a rich program of activities that vary between cultural heritage, religion and sports, whether from Qatar or Arab countries such as Sudan, Lebanon and others.

It also offers theatrical and artistic performances suitable for all family members, seminars and workshops are organized on various cultural topics, cultural competitions are held and prizes are distributed to the winners.

Children enjoying the atmosphere of Ramadan at Expo 2023 in Doha (Al Jazeera)

Crossing into the past

“Anna Expo” in the Cultural District is considered a gateway to the past, where heritage events that embody the Qatari identity are held, and new generations have the opportunity to embark on a journey through time, discover the lives of their ancestors, and learn about their heritage, culture, and daily life in all its details.

The events also include performances of traditional Qatari arts, such as playing the oud and tabla, traditional dancing, and various cultural performances, providing an opportunity for visitors to enjoy an authentic heritage experience and learn about Qatari traditions and culture.

A women's popular band performs at the exhibition (Al Jazeera)

Al-Mutawa event

One of the most prominent events in the Qatari pavilion is the “Mutawa” event, which is held after Tarawih prayers, as the Mutawa is considered an ancient Qatari tradition.

The “Mutawa” is a person who gathers children around him, wearing traditional traditional clothes, to walk around the corridors of Al Fareej, and perform the “Tahmidah,” repeating prayers of praise, praise, and thanks to God.

Among the phrases that the children repeat behind “Al-Mutawa” are: “Praise be to God who guided us.. to religion and Islam and chose us.. Glory be to Him from the Creator, Glory be to Him.. By His grace He taught us the Qur’an.. We praise Him and He deserves to be praised.. Plenty of praise that cannot be counted in number.. the length of nights and time. Eternal... I bear witness that God is one individual... and that His Messenger is the glorious Prophet.”

"Al-Mutawa" embodies an image of Al-Furjan's old Qatari life, where he enjoyed a special status among the people, was loved and feared, and played an important role in resolving problems and disputes.

In addition, Al-Mutawa was responsible for teaching young people the pillars of Islam, memorizing the Qur’an, and the Prophet’s hadiths, in addition to training in writing, arithmetic, and calligraphy skills.

Make this holy month an unforgettable memory by spending great times at #Expo2023Doha!

Exciting adventures await the whole family, full of fun and enjoyment.

Ramadan is with us!

🗓️ Daily until March 28


⏰ from 5 pm until 1 midnight


📍 All Expo areas

Make this holy month unforgettable by… pic.twitter.com/mBx6bcDqwD

- Expo2023Doha (@Expo2023Doha) March 13, 2024

The omnivorous and the enchanted

The Qatar Horticultural Expo also dedicates a special space to display the art of nahma, where live performances are organized by an elite group of Qatari and Gulf nahmatists, with the aim of reviving the maritime heritage.

The Meshar event is also one of the main events at the exhibition during the month of Ramadan, through which an ancient tradition is revived.

Between the corridors of Expo, the magicians roam around the exhibition carrying drums and lamps, singing Ramadan songs that herald the arrival of the time of suhoor.

Expo also witnesses the holding of various activities targeting girls, including the art of henna drawing, where female visitors have the opportunity to experience this art and learn about its traditions and techniques, in addition to providing workshops dedicated to teaching visitors how to draw.

Traditional shipbuilding is one of the ancient professions in Qatar (Al Jazeera)

Ancient professions

In addition, events are organized that embody ancient professions that preserve the heritage and history of the region, including traditional shipbuilding, where the shipbuilding process is presented and the tools and techniques used in this field are reviewed.

Fishing net making activities are another part of the ancient professions, and events related to the art of calligraphy and painting are also organized.

In addition, the exhibition will witness the organization of football and padel tournaments.

The art of calligraphy and lettering is one of the activities of Expo Doha in Ramadan (Al Jazeera)

Visitor experience

Haitham Shams, responsible for the activities of the Qatari Pavilion, says that Ramadan events represent an important part of the Qatar Horticultural Expo 2023, as the organizing committee presents a variety of activities that reflect the Qatari heritage and enhance the visitors’ experience during the holy month of Ramadan.

Shams points out, in an interview with Al Jazeera Net, that these events, which witness great demand, contribute to strengthening the Qatari identity among new generations, and knowing the ancient heritage customs closely through their experience of them.

He explained that the Qatari Pavilion is a major destination for visitors, as they have the opportunity to watch and participate in many ancient heritage events such as Al-Nahma, Al-Mutawa and Al-Musahar, which contributes to reviving these valuable cultural customs.

He concludes, "In addition to heritage events, we also offer a variety of other cultural events, such as musical performances of the oud instrument, the art of drawing, singing, and others, which provides a comprehensive cultural experience for visitors."

Source: Al Jazeera