Identity and culture at the heart of Qatar Reads’ Qatar National Day celebrations

Qatar Reads has placed the spirit of Qatar at the center of its Darb Al Saai celebrations, with a range of educational and interactive activities that aim to celebrate the nation’s identity and culture.

From a large interactive walk-in book installation to activity cards that allow participants to become authors of their own stories to a dedicated coloring station, Qatar Reads is helping foster a culture of reading among children through storytelling, imagination, discovery, and exploration.

Ms. Al-Jazi Al-Henzab, Project Manager, Qatar Reads, said: “Darb Al Saai serves as a great opportunity for families and their children to learn more about the Qatar Reads initiative. Our Qatar National Day activities reflect our unique programs – like the Family Reading Program – and are inclusive, engaging, relevant, and strive to create independent thinkers.

“Ultimately, we have placed Qatar at the heart of our Qatar National Day celebrations. We want to inspire a love of literature among young people – to create a nation of readers – while simultaneously helping young people learn more about this country’s rich culture and traditions.

“We are looking forward to welcoming families and children of all ages and interests to our booth in Qatar Foundation’s Darb Al Saai tent in the coming days.”

Maryam Al Mulla visited the Qatar Reads booth, along with her children, and said: "This is not the first time I have visited the Qatar Foundation tent, and what distinguishes it from others is that its activities are designed to be enjoyed by people of all ages.

“I am particularly glad that we visited the Qatar Reads area, which aims to raise awareness of the importance of reading, as my children really enjoyed coloring, sharing ideas, and writing their own stories.”

Khaled Al-Sulaiti, also visited QF’s tent with his family, and said: “I like the idea of the Family Reading Program, which encourages us, as parents, to have fun with our children and encourage them to read at home.”

As part of its Qatar National Day celebrations, Qatar Reads also revamped its Library of Wonders mobile activation, which is now themed around the concept of tradition. Currently located in Education City’s Green Spine, the Library of Wonders uses the five senses – sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch – to help visitors learn about Qatar’s cultural heritage, while instilling a sense of pride among members of the community.

Additionally, at Galeries Lafayette in Katara Cultural Village, Qatar Reads had a number of activities on offer, such as henna, face painting, and storytelling sessions. And educational comics staring Qatar Reads’ popular characters Sarah and Ali decorated the unique space.

Qatar Reads Darb Al Saai activities will remain open until Friday, December 20.