Professional Toastmasters Club - Qatar Culture & Religion

Tradition

Bedouin culture remains as an important element in the lives of Qatari people. They draw on their relationship with the open desert to provide harmony and unity, balancing religious traditions with modern living.

Many aspects of Bedouin culture remain in modern daily life. Qataris often entertain in Bedouin tents, either on a trip in the desert or simply erected outside their homes. Falconry, too, is still a vibrant part of Qatari life.

Islam in Qatar guides not only religious beliefs, but also plays a pivotal role in the daily lives of Qataris. Mosques, located all over the country, welcome worshippers for their prayers.

Qatari culture is filled with wonderful poetry and song, while weavers are known for their stunning art.

Tools made from wood and gazelle horn are used by weavers who work with sheep, goat and camel wool to create rugs, tents and cushions.
Qataris wear their traditional dress in their daily lives. For men, this is a long white shirt that reaches their ankles, called a thobe, and is worn over short trousers. A head covering, the gutra, is secured with four black tasselled cords which have been braided. Women wear an abayah, a long black flowing dress over their clothes and are mostly veiled.

For special events and traditional celebrations, Qataris wear ceremonial clothing. Women's dresses are richly coloured and decorated with elaborate embroidery in both gold and silver.

Although Arabic is the official language of Qatar, English is widely used throughout the country.

Falconry

These birds of prey were used originally by Bedouins to hunt, providing an important addition to their diets. In Qatar today, the tradition of falconry remains a major sporting activity during the hunting season from October to March.

During the off-season, owners and falcons continue with training exercises. A falcon's incredible eyesight allows it to lock onto its prey. Falcons can fly at speeds of over 100km per hour and dive at twice that rate.

An important bond is created between owners and falcons, and the birds are treated with great care and respect.