The Qatar National Day 2025 festivities at Darb Al Saai in Umm Salal are drawing steady crowds, with families forming the largest share of visitors as cultural, historical and interactive activities unfold across the venue. Organised by the Ministry of Culture and running until December 20 under the theme “With you we rise, and from you we anticipate,” the event brings together heritage displays, performances and educational programmes that highlight national values and traditions.
A key attraction this year is the Ministry of Interior’s expansive pavilion, designed as a full “security village.” The pavilion reflects the Ministry’s growing emphasis on community engagement, featuring the participation of nearly 15 specialised departments and units. Visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits presenting modern security tools, public services and interactive activities tailored for children and adults. Officials say the aim is to strengthen the bond between the Ministry and the public by offering clear insight into its daily work and by highlighting the foundations of national security.
The General Directorate of Civil Defence is also drawing attention with live demonstrations of firefighting and rescue operations. These shows are paired with awareness materials on home safety, emergency procedures and fire prevention, providing visitors with practical information in an accessible format.
Qatar Archives has introduced a redesigned pavilion that reflects the visual identity of the country’s emblem and its historical development. Mohammed Hassan al-Shahrani, head of the Private Archives Department, said the space was created to help visitors understand the institution’s mission and explore archival material in a simple and engaging way.
Among the most visited areas is the “Al Bidaa” activity space, which presents a modern interpretation of Qatar’s maritime heritage. The setup showcases traditional seafaring professions through live documentation, interactive storytelling and displays that connect historical practices with present-day culture. Nayef Malallah Al-Muhannadi, head of Al-Maha Folk Arts Group, said their participation strengthens this segment of the event. This year marks the group’s largest presence yet, with a notable lineup of Qatari nahham performers whose chants once guided crews during long voyages.
The Maritime Museum at Darb Al Saai remains a highlight for many attendees. The museum provides a close look at Qatar’s long relationship with the sea, featuring original diving and pearling tools, traditional navigation maps, models of vessels used by early sailors and detailed explanations of maritime professions across different eras. Its immersive layout offers visitors an opportunity to experience how the sea shaped the country’s identity, livelihood and cultural memory.
As activities continue throughout the week, organisers expect attendance to remain strong, with families and youth at the centre of the celebrations that honour Qatar’s heritage and national spirit.
