#QATARILITMONTH: Qatar National Vision 2030

A Vision For The Future Qatari Men with Traditional Clothes on Camels. Photo by Maryam Al Marzoqi Qatar is an independent, sovereign Arab state. It is an Islamic country, and Arabic is the official language, yet English is widely spoken. Due to its oil and gas reserves, strategic location and leadership, it has gained global … Continue reading #QATARILITMONTH: Qatar National Vision 2030

#QATARILITMONTH: Contemporary Qatari Literature: Fiction from an Urban Desert

You can learn a lot about a nation’s history, culture and aspirations by reading its literature. A number of Qatari authors have made their work available in the English language, making it easy for a global audience to read the country’s historical fiction, magical fantasy and folk tales. Qatari author Abdulaziz Al-Mahmoud’s writing depicts the … Continue reading #QATARILITMONTH: Contemporary Qatari Literature: Fiction from an Urban Desert

#QATARILITMONTH: Dar Al-Kutub Al Qatariyya’s legacy to cherish

Dar Al-Kutub Al Qatariyya Dar Al-Kutub Building in 2019 Dar Al-Kutub Al Qatariyya was first founded as a public library and it started its journey of Dar Al-Kutub through the Ministry of Education on December 29, 1962. The Ministry at that time decided to merge the two existing libraries – the Public library and Al … Continue reading #QATARILITMONTH: Dar Al-Kutub Al Qatariyya’s legacy to cherish

#QATARILITMONTH: Mosques of Qatar-Part One

Mosques of Qatar: Beyond Places of Worship A mosque, or masjid, is the building where Muslims perform their five daily prayers. However, many people do not know that mosques are much more than just places for prayers—mosques are at the heart of Muslim societies. Though the Islamic culture urges modesty of architecture and interior furnishing … Continue reading #QATARILITMONTH: Mosques of Qatar-Part One

#QATARILITMONTH: Skyscrapers and Artificial Islands in Qatar

"Beauty At First Sight" Skyline of Doha The year 2005, when I set foot in Qatar, was a turning point in my life. That was the moment I saw the beautiful architecture that saturated my soul and nourished my ideas at the College of Architecture. I have not forgotten when I went with my husband … Continue reading #QATARILITMONTH: Skyscrapers and Artificial Islands in Qatar

#QATARILITMONTH: The Heritage Library at Qatar National Library

Treasures of the Arabic and Islamic Worlds at Qatar National Library The Heritage Library’s location at the heart of Qatar National Library reflects its important role as the guardian of the nation’s history and heritage. The extensive collection of heritage and historical materials traces scientific, artistic, social and economic development throughout the Arab and Islamic worlds. It also highlights the … Continue reading #QATARILITMONTH: The Heritage Library at Qatar National Library

#QATARILITMONTH:Souk Waqif

Souk Waqif: Once Upon a Time Maher Atter- Photographer  Mohamed Ali Abdullah- Text and Drawings  Souk Waqif: Where past and present reside side-by-side  A walk through the labyrinth-like passageways of Souk Waqif in Doha, Qatar tantalizes all of your senses.  Careening through the passageways at each turn there is a new smell.  The pungent smell of the fresh spices, the … Continue reading #QATARILITMONTH:Souk Waqif

Welcome to #QatariLitMonth

The Essence of Qatar Al Zubara Fort I am thrilled to start with you this month’s journey where you will take a glimpse of the nation of Qatar. I have been invited to be the guest editor for July to share with you stories from my beloved country. For those who don’t know much about … Continue reading Welcome to #QatariLitMonth