Captivating activities programme is in partnership with leading cultural, heritage and art institutions in Qatar

Doha, 14 July 2012

In partnership with a diverse number of leading cultural and art Qatari institutions, Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) organises a Four-day packed entertainment programme incorporating different exciting activities, starting from the first day of Eid Al-Fitr. These activities comprise folklore games, entertainment contests, crafts, traditional Qatari feasts, art performances, fireworks, heritage exhibitions, concerts as well as other outdoor activities.

On this occasion, Mr. Abdullah Mallala Al Bader, The Director of Tourism at QTA."We are delighted to coordinate with local institutions as we all work towards achieving one goal which is to position and promote Qatar on the international platform as a society distinguished by its cultural diversity and a unique harmony of authentic traditions blended with contemporary lifestyles. This is the first time that QTA embarks on such a cooperation initiative with cultural and arts institutions as it reflects on the authority's strategy to stimulate the local tourism industry and attract visitors to discover Qatar."

"This year's Eid celebrations acquire immense importance given the multiplicity of entertainment activities, and the diverse ideal places which will host such events, along with an outstanding list of partners who have enriched this impressive programme with their innovative ideas and special activities", added Al Bader.

The Eid activities' list of partners include the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage; the Cultural District (Katara);  Souq Waqif; Qatar Museums Authority (QMA); Sawt Al-Rayyan; q.media; and while Participating malls and commercial centers comprise Villagio Mall; the Mall; Royal Plaza; Landmark Mall; Hayat Plaza; and Al Khor Mall.

The Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage will also participate in the Eid activities with a rich schedule of activities including traditional performances that will reflect on the diversity of the local heritage and the different signing arts in addition to a number of popular games, entertainment contests, crafts, traditional Qatari feasts, art performances, at Corniche Al Dafna (the Heritage Village), starting from 4.00 pm, to 11.30 pm.

The Cultural District (Katara) will host a dramatic fireworks show that will start from 8.30pm on the first day of Eid in addition to a number of activities that will take place in Katara such as  the watch exhibition (Daniel Lowell), Arabic calligraphy exhibition for Katara's Artists, an exhibition featuring a selection of Islamic  Arabic calligraphy in collaboration with Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum; along with Olympics Through Media Exhibition; in addition to Holy Quran classes for Children entitled "Nafahat Al Iman"; and a book fair. This rich cultural and arts programme starts from 10.00 am until 10.00 pm.

The Qatar National Theatre will host starting the first day of Eid the "Qatari 60%" play starring Abdul Aziz Jassim, while Al Rayyan Theatre located at Souq Waqif, will host live concerts incorporating top artists, starting from 9.00 pm, until midnight all through the Eid celebration.

Over the Four-day Eid holiday, the Aspire Zone Park will open its doors to the public around the clock, and the Museum of Islamic Art Park will welcome visitors from 10.30 am until 11.00 pm.

Additionally, shopping malls and commercial centers will alternately host several appealing events, including folklore bands; a performance, Space Pedestrians; African Circus; a play for kids; Brix 8; as well as Sing with Barney show, one of the most popular Children musicals.

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About Qatar Tourism Authority
Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) manages Qatar's burgeoning tourism industry and develop it through establishing high profile international and local exhibitions as successful annual calendar events in Qatar..

QTA's mission is to promote Qatar as a world class tourism destination for business, leisure, culture, education and sport.  Its role is to showcase the country's unique cultural heritage and highlight its tourist attractions.

Acknowledged as the fastest growing economy in the world, Qatar has taken its place on the world stage by hosting global sporting events such as the upcoming 2022 World Cup.  As a world class business hub Qatar is where visitors can also enjoy some of the finest hospitality in the world with uber luxury leisure facilities and abundant tourist activities.  From jet-skiing off dhow boats around the islands to safaris in the desert, or soaking in the evocative atmosphere of the Souq Waqif to fine dining and designer shopping in the glamorous shopping centers, Qatar has it all.

In the first quarter 2012 Qatar's tourism sector saw growth of 22% in GCC visitor rates to Doha with revenues for four and five star hotels increased by QR32 million.   The country also experienced a 12 % increase in the number of hotel facilities compared to last year from its 112 hotels, underlining QTA's important role in promoting the sector's growth to meet the demands of the market.

© Press Release 2012