Doha, Qatar! NATIONAL DAY:
Qatar National Day on 18th December is the day Qataris celebrate their national identity and history. Expressions of affection and gratitude are conveyed to Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammed al-Thani the founder of the State of Qatar. People take to the streets and participate in activites such as the military parade and fireworks display. National Day in 2010 was an extra special celebration as 2 weeks before Qatar was chosen as the host nation for the 202 2 FIFA World Cup. The city was decorated with flags and banners- people even painted their cars in the national colours and showed pictures of the Royal Family. It is intended to maintain a knowledge and appreciation of Qatar's heritage, and to encourage pride in Qatar.
YHE MEANING OF THE FLAG: (seen in the background) A- The white colour reflects the internationally recognized symbol of peace. B- The maroon colour symbolizes the bloodshed during the several wars Qatar had undergone, particularly in the second half of the 19th century. C- The nine-point serrated line indicates that Qatar is the 9th member of the "reconciled Emirates" of the Arabian Gulf in the wake of concluding the Qatari-British treaty in 1916. SOUQ WAQIF: Souq Waqif is considered one of the top tourist destinations in Doha. Translated to the 'standing market' this shopping destination is renowned for selling traditional garments, spices, handicrafts, and souvenirs. It is also home to dozens of restaurants serving cuisines from all over the world, as well as Shisha lounges.
Although this market dates back at least a hundred years, it has been recently restored back to its original glory.
The Pearl: The Pearl Qatar is a man-made island reclaimed from the sea. It is the first land available in the country for freehold ownership by foreigners. This prime real-estate will be home to 45,000 people by 2015. Residential development on the island is intended to incorporate various national and international themes including aspects of Arabic, Mediterranean and European culture. For example a replica residential area of Veinice has been built. It is a great place to shop, eat and socialise.