Friday, December 12, 2025

Arabic words&phrases related to the sea

 

  • بحر (baḥr) – sea

  • موج (mawj) – wave

  • شاطئ (shāṭi’) – beach / shore

  • رمال (ramāl) – sand

  • قارب (qārib) – boat

  • مرجان (marjān) – coral

  • صدف (ṣadaf) – shell

  • سمك (samak) – fish

  • سفينة (safīna) – ship

  • أمواج (amwāj) – waves (plural)


  • Pearlلؤلؤ (lu’lu’)

  • Shellصدف (ṣadaf)

  • Fishermanصياد (ṣayyād)

  • Sailorبحّار (baḥḥār)


  • بحر هادئ اليوم 🌊☀️Baḥr hādi’ al-yawm – A calm sea today

  • أمواج تتراقص على الشاطئ 🌊💃Amwāj tataraqas ‘alā al-shāṭi’ – Waves dancing on the shore

  • لؤلؤة من الأعماق 🐚✨Lu’lu’a min al-a‘māq – A pearl from the depths

  • رحلة الصياد صباحاً 🎣⛵Riḥlat al-ṣayyād ṣabāḥan – The fisherman’s morning trip

  • نسيم البحار ينعش الروح 🌬️🌊Nasīm al-biḥār yun‘ish al-rūḥ – The sea breeze refreshes the soul

  • سفينة تبحر نحو الأفق ⛵🌅Safīna tabḥar naḥwa al-ufuq – A ship sailing toward the horizon

  • صدف على الرمال 🐚🏖️Ṣadaf ‘alā al-ramāl – Shells on the sand

  • أمواج البحر تحمل الأحلام 🌊💭Amwāj al-baḥr taḥmil al-aḥlām – The sea waves carry dreams

  • بحّار يبحث عن مغامرة 🌊⚓Baḥḥār yabḥath ‘an mughāmara – A sailor seeking adventure

  • شاطئ وغروب الشمس 🌅🏖️Shāṭi’ wa ghurūb al-shams – Beach and sunset

  • Photos from the Dhow festival -2025 - Katara


    It was a wonderful afternoon and evening at the Katara Dhow Festival. I’ve visited many festivals here over the years, but this one has always been my favorite. Perhaps it’s because I’m drawn to the past—the nostalgic atmosphere, the traditional crafts, and the timeless rhythm of the sea. Together, they create a charm that feels both soothing and unforgettable.




    You can walk out onto the temporary wooden pier stretching into the sea and admire the beautifully restored traditional vessels up close. I decided to buy a hot drink and linger there, watching the sunset while the modern skyline shimmered in the distance. That contrast—tradition and modernity side by side—always captivates me.




    Grab a latte   and  stay  dreamy  so close  to the sea  !









    This Saudi vendor is showcasing his handmade clay water dispenser — an eco-friendly, traditional way to keep water naturally cool, which truly amazed me. He’s a skilled potter, and besides the dispenser, he also offered beautifully crafted lamps that reflected his artistry and heritage.













    As the sun began to set, more and more people arrived. I watched folk dancers from Oman and Qatar performing in their traditional attire, while nearby a large cauldron simmered with a traditional dish prepared by an experienced cook. Fishermen worked patiently on their nets or tried their luck catching fish the old-fashioned way — scenes that brought the festival’s heritage beautifully to life.






    I came across many beautiful pieces of jewelry made from pearls and shells. What surprised me most was the price — a pearl necklace was only 370 QAR, roughly 100 USD. Curious, I asked the vendor about the origin of the pearls, and she explained that they were cultivated river pearls from Singapore. She also mentioned that genuine sea-harvested pearls are much more expensive, costing around 1,000 QAR (about 300 USD) per piece.






    The Omani folk dance group, with their powerful bagpipes, rhythmic drums, and energetic songs, created an unforgettable atmosphere. Their performance was full of life and tradition, leaving a truly memorable impression.



    The traditional model boats on display are beautifully handcrafted in India. The smallest ones are priced at 120 rials, while the larger, more detailed pieces go for around 500 rials. They make wonderful traditional home décor items and carry a charming sense of maritime heritage.







    At the Zanzibar stand, this little wooden sign made me smile — it simply read “Hakuna Matata.”

    “No worries” — this could easily be the festival’s slogan! Come and unwind at the Katara Dhow Festival, open until December 18. Sit by the sea, sip a hot drink, browse for souvenirs, and taste some homemade local dishes. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and seaside charm.

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    Thursday, December 11, 2025

    🦒 Rock paintings in the Sahara-MENA Visuals

     

    Qatar Balloon Festival 6th Edition - Al Bidda Park









    How to get to the Village festival Fan Zone by metro

     


     read  the details  about  the  free entrance

    Flood in Jeddah - video

     




     When the desert meets the sea, storms write their own story. 🌧️ Jeddah’s December downpour brought 135 mm of rain and turned the city into a river overnight.


    The last major flood in Jeddah was in November 2022, when an exceptionally intense rainstorm hit the city on November 24, 2022. During that event, the **National Center for Meteorology recorded around 179 mm of rain in just a few hours 

    Qatar International Arts Festival (QIAF) 2025 -Last Day

     


     Photos from the Qatar International Arts Festival (QIAF) 2025, showcasing a rich variety of artistic performances and creative activities held in partnership with MAPS International WLL, all taking place in the vibrant atmosphere of Katara Hall – Building 12.

    🗓️ Running through December 12
    ⏰ Open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM

    Monday, December 08, 2025

    We moved - funny UFO Postcard

     

    ✨ Star Party #30: Geminids Festival – A Night of Shooting Stars! ✨in Qatar

     


    Get ready to witness one of the most spectacular celestial events of the year! The Geminids Meteor Shower is back, and the Geminids Festival promises a magical night under the stars. 🌠

    Join Everester Observatory on 13 December 2025, from 8 PM to 4 AM at the Meteor Shower Viewing Spot in Al Kharrara. With up to 60 shooting stars per hour, it’s the perfect opportunity to gather your family, friends, and a sense of wonder for an unforgettable night of stargazing.

    Event Highlights:

    • Free registration with detailed event guidelines

    • Telescopes available for enhanced viewing

    • WC facilities on site

    • Moon at 33% illumination (Moonrise at 1:12 AM)

    • Cold and windy weather – dress warmly!

    Don’t miss the chance to experience the King of Meteor Showers in all its glory. 🌌

     DETAILS   HERE 

    Saturday, December 06, 2025

    Moments from the Coffee Festival - Doha 2025

     


    There are some big names present at the festival, like Hyatt and Cerutti, but most of the places were lesser-known ones.







    There is no shortage of chocolate fountains, with strawberries and marshmallows offered in a cup—25 QAR at most places. I saw at least five different stands




    The Hive Cake Shop offers Russian honey cake, among many other treats—this specialty makes them unique in Doha. They have a small shop, but most of their orders are for delivery, they said.”






    Santa Nata is a Portuguese cake shop and café—another unique place in Doha. The name means ‘Holy Cream’ in Portuguese, referring to the traditional Portuguese custard tarts they specialize in.



    Anat Berries is a small home business, but they offer sweets with a very professional look.






    This Egyptian basbosa seller is very confident—he sells only in bulk. You must buy his sweets by the box (50 QAR). The good side: it’s creamy and tasty, and you can even try them for free .

    I missed the Japanese cake shops, including the matcha pancakes and lattes. The left side of the festival was almost entirely Filipino stands, offering cookies, ube mochis, and skewers. I also found a chimney cake stand—it was supposed to be the famous Hungarian Kürtőskalács, but I learned it was a Georgian version. I wasn’t very sure if it was the same, so I skipped it .

    I didn’t find a single stand offering sugar-free cakes—in a country with such a high rate of diabetes .

    Although there was a stage, I didn’t witness any live entertainment—only music from the speakers
     




    There are lots of seating areas, and some spots even have those comfy, stylish chairs. My verdict: go to the festival—most stands open after sunset. Try something you’ve never had before and enjoy Qatar’s mild December weather.


























    Thursday, December 04, 2025

    Coffee, Tea & Chocolate Festival 2025 – Doha

     


    ☕ Coffee, Tea & Chocolate Festival 2025 – Doha

    • When: December 4–13, 2025

    • Where: Al Bidda Park, Doha

    • What: A family‑friendly festival celebrating coffee, tea, and chocolate. Enjoy tastings, desserts, sweets, and live entertainment in a festive outdoor atmosphere. Perfect for both adults and kids!




    How to get there ?

    Big Prizes Announced for Katara Dhow Festival Photography Competition 2025




    The Katara Traditional Dhow Festival in Doha isn’t just a celebration of Qatar’s maritime heritage — it’s also a fantastic opportunity for photographers! Each year, the festival hosts a photography competition, inviting both amateurs and professionals to capture the beauty, energy, and cultural richness of the event. Participants can showcase their skills, compete for exciting prizes, and get their work seen by a wider audience. Whether you’re fascinated by traditional dhows, festival scenes, or the vibrant atmosphere of Katara Cultural Village, this competition offers a creative platform to tell your story through the lens. Keep an eye on the festival’s official channels for the latest announcements and submission deadlines — your perfect shot could be next!

     

    Sumerian birth certificate

     

    Monday, December 01, 2025

    Beyond the Matches: Lusail’s Free ‘Unity in Passion’ Festival

     Lusail Stadium welcomes the final and other headline games, adding to the city’s impressive sports story. And if you’re looking for atmosphere beyond the matches, Lusail Boulevard’s “Unity in Passion” (Dec 1–18) offers free evenings filled with music, food trucks, cultural corners, and family-friendly fun. With Doha’s gentle December weather around 22–25°C, it’s the perfect time to enjoy it all outdoors.

    Match schedules - FIFA Arab Cup 2025 - Qatar

     


      You can  download   the large   pdf  version  of this  filee   HERE .

    You  can buy   tickets HERE

    Doha Welcomes the FIFA Arab Cup 2025

     

    The temperature is finally dropping in Doha, and being outdoors feels good again. Sports teams and delegations are now arriving — and for a good reason. Three years after the FIFA World Cup, the region’s top football teams are gathering once more to perform in the very same stadiums where the world’s best players competed.

    Sixteen Arab nations will face each other to see who will rise to the top. Here’s what you need to know:

    📅 Dates: 1–18 December 2025
    ⏰ Match times: Afternoon and evening kick-offs (ideal for the cooler weather)
    🎉 Extra fun: Fan zones, cultural events, food stalls, music, family-friendly activities, and the festive football atmosphere Qatar is famous for.





    Sunday, November 30, 2025

    Unserious Survey: Reactions to November Phone Alerts 🔊📱

     When the unexpected security drill in November made mobiles scream, here’s what people really thought:

    • 20% – “It must be a fire at the office/university!” 🔥
    • 20% – “Nuclear catastrophe?!” ☢️
    • 5% – “Nothing… just felt like my heart stopped throbbing.” ❤️‍🩹
    • 20% – “My phone is overreacting… probably low battery.” 🔋
    • 15% – “Who is calling me at this volume?!” 📞
    • 10% – “Did I accidentally press some weird setting?” ⚙️
    • 10% – “Uff, Qatar finally found a new way to wake us up.” ⏰

    Conclusion:
    Phones were ready. Hearts… slightly less so. 😄

    The Katara Traditional Dhow Festival 2025

     The Katara Traditional Dhow Festival is now underway at Katara Beach, running from late November to mid-December. Visitors can explore beautifully restored wooden dhows, watch sailing and rowing competitions, and enjoy cultural shows, crafts, and family activities. Entry is free, and events usually take place from afternoon until late evening. A great chance to experience Qatar’s maritime heritage.




    🌊 Quick Facts About Qatar’s Maritime History

    1. Qatar was once one of the world’s major pearl-diving centers.
    Before oil, pearls were the country’s economic backbone, traded across India, Persia, and Europe.

    2. Qatari dhows sailed as far as East Africa and India.
    Merchants used large wooden dhows for long-distance voyages carrying pearls, dates, and textiles.

    3. Traditional navigation relied on stars and coastal landmarks.
    Before modern tools, Qatari captains (nakhudas) memorized star paths for nighttime sea travel.

    4. Pearl divers worked in extremely harsh conditions.
    They held their breath for up to a minute, using nose clips and finger guards, often diving 30–40 times per hour.

    5. The diving season was called the ghaws.
    It lasted from June to September and involved entire crews living at sea for months.

    6. Dhows were built without nails in early times.
    Builders used ropes, wooden pegs, and coconut fibers soaked in oil to bind the planks.

    7. Families depended on the sea for generations.
    Fishing, trading, and pearling shaped social roles, songs, traditions, and coastal settlements.

    8. The “boom-and-bust” of pearls changed the region.
    Natural pearls declined after the 1930s with the arrival of Japanese cultured pearls, impacting the Gulf economy.

    9. Qatar’s coastal forts protected maritime routes.
    Al Zubarah, Al Khor, and Ruwais regions were key for trade and sea defense.

    10. Many maritime words in Qatari Arabic are unique.
    Terms like badoor (diving rope), dallah (anchor stone), and nakhuda (captain) reflect centuries of sea culture.



    Hello December – A Look at Qatar’s Weather Extremes

     

    How to get to the Swan Lake - Pearl Island Qatar

     

    Friday, November 28, 2025

    From Gadgets to Getaways: Doha’s Best White Friday Deals 2025

     White Friday has quickly become one of Qatar’s most exciting shopping events, bringing massive discounts, exclusive online offers, and limited-time deals across the country. From electronics and fashion to home essentials and beauty, shoppers can find real savings if they know where to look. As the big weekend approaches, here’s how to make the most of Qatar’s White Friday rush.


    BEST  DEALS  

    Qatar  Airways Holidays 


    The deals you’ve been waiting for are finally live:

    ✨ Enjoy 25% off Flight + Hotel packages to any destination
    ✨ Get 55% off cruises departing from Doha
    ✨ Extra rewards exclusively for Privilege Club members

    Hurry—these offers are available for six days only!
    Book now and grab the savings:

    🌐 qatarairwaysholidays.com
    📞 +974 4144 5544
    📧 holidays@qatarairways.com.qa




      FNAC offers deals from November 27–29, 2025, with amazing discounts on TVs and soundbars, personal appliances, and smaller gadgets. In Doha, you can find FNAC at Doha Festival City, Lagoona Mall, and Place Vendôme.


    _____________________________

    Celebrate White Friday with massive savings—up to 80% off selected devices and accessories! Purchase any device and receive 1000 bonus Nojoom Points. Offer available from 27 Nov to 6 Dec, both in-store and online. T&Cs apply.






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    VODAFONE  QATAR

    core big on the latest smartphones and accessories with exclusive limited-time discounts! The year’s top bargains run from 26 November to 2 December 2025.
    Learn more: https://vodafone.qa/sale
    ______________________________________

    Reflections After the Dubai Airshow Tragedy

     When I watched the video of the Indian aircraft crashing at the 2025 Dubai Airshow, a strange mix of thoughts rushed through me. People go to these events for excitement, for beauty, for precision in the sky — and instead they end up witnessing a tragedy unfold right in front of them.

    My mind immediately went back to the airshow accident in Qatar years ago, when a Hungarian pilot lost his life during a stunt that went terribly wrong. And then to another sorrowful story — the British royal who wished to marry a Hungarian woman and dreamed of serving the Royal House, but whose life ended at an airshow as well. Their story never made it into The Crown, but it lived on in the memories of those who knew it.

    So many thoughts… but above all, I just felt deep sympathy. For the pilot, whose last moments were part of a performance meant to bring joy. And for the audience, who came for entertainment and instead witnessed something they will never forget.

    Friday, November 21, 2025

    Roast Trukey Deals in Doha - 2025


    6-7kg Roasted Turkey Packages for Takeaway at Shaza Hotel


     starting  from  QR399Traditional Roast Turkey

    _________________________________________________

    IKEA  Family price     -  Whole  Roast   Turkey 

    Original price: QR 449
    Special IKEA Family price: QR 349

    ______________________________________








     

    Heading to Lusail Marina? Take the Lusail Tram!

     

    Rainy Weather Expected This Sunday and Monday

     


     Recent weather reports suggest that rain clouds could develop on Sunday, November 23, 2025 — with a chance of occasional thunderstorms. Scattered showers are also expected to continue on Monday, November 24, 2025.

    Wednesday, November 19, 2025

    Free Planetarium screenings at Katara

     

    Flashback After the Emergency Alert

     After the alert on my phone on November 19, 2025, I suddenly had a flashback. I remembered a quiet, early summer morning somewhere in Europe — South Hungary, not far from the country’s only nuclear power station.

    Every month, the siren drills happened around lunchtime, but that morning the solemn, eerie sound filled the air. My first thought was: “Just a mistake.” But it didn’t stop. It went on far too long to be just a mistake.

    Panic set in. The South Slav war… had they attacked Hungary? Did they bomb the power station? I did what we were always told in case of a siren: I turned on the radio and listened carefully.

    Meanwhile, my mother — who always loved a bit of drama — pulled my child out of bed, shouting: “You must get dressed — we have to flee!”

    Flee? I thought. Where to? The silence from the radio about the situation was grim. Surely something serious had happened… would we all be sick and dying from radiation-induced cancer soon? Would there be enough painkillers for everyone, or only for the privileged?

    After about half an hour, finally there was a public announcement: no emergency — it was just a mistake.

    Even so, it was hard to believe they could not switch off the siren for so long. That day stayed with me. And now, hearing the alert in 2025, all those old fears came rushing back — a vivid reminder of how suddenly life can feel out of control.

    That Creepy Emergency Alert…

     

    live From Qatar: 

    I was just preparing to make my afternoon tea when suddenly my phone started blasting loud alarm sounds!
    For a moment I honestly thought it was warning me about a dying battery — but no. When I checked the screen, I saw that it was an emergency alert informing me that a Watan military exercise was taking place in Qatar and that no action was required from the public.

    Still, it felt creepy. After the two bombings that happened earlier this year, hearing that siren-type alert again instantly brought back that cold, uneasy feeling. Even if it’s “just a drill,” your nerves react as if something real is happening.

    So what can we expect during these national war-games-style exercises?

    Possible things the public might notice:

    • More emergency alerts on phones testing the notification system

    • Visible movement of military and police vehicles in certain areas

    • Helicopters or aircraft practicing maneuvers

    • Road closures or diversions during specific scenarios

    • Sirens or loudspeaker announcements as part of emergency simulations

    • Smoke, controlled explosions, or fire-training scenes used for realism

    • Increased presence of Civil Defense units around public facilities

    • Practice evacuations in selected institutions (schools, malls, or offices)

    • Media coverage showing coordinated response teams in action

    These drills are meant to test how well the country can respond to crises — but for everyday residents, they can still feel quite unsettling.




    Illustration by   Alma  Wad  the human designer (  aka me )   and Canva   AI 


    Thursday, November 13, 2025

    A Magical Night with AMG Quartet at the Katara European Jazz Festival 2025

     


     A glimpse into the French concert by AMG Quartet at the #Katara_European_Jazz_Festival 2025, where the band’s dynamic energy and artistic harmony captivated the audience, in collaboration with the Embassy of #France in #Qatar.



     

    🚇 How to Reach Beach Centrale by Metro – The Pearl Qatar 🌴

     

    ✈️ Qatar Airways Shines at the 2025 Verified Air Travel Awards 🌟

     

    Saturday, November 08, 2025

    Turtles & the Qatar Marina Ecosystem - guided tour

     


    🐢 Guided Tours at the National Museum of Qatar 🌊

    Join  the guided tours in English and Arabic to explore marine life in Qatar, with a special focus on the  beloved sea turtles. 🐢💙

    Discover fascinating stories about Qatar’s coastal environment and the efforts to protect these gentle creatures.

    📅 Check the dates and times above and don’t miss this educational and inspiring experience!






    🌙 Night Studies at QNL — A Dream Come True for Night Owls

     


    Have you ever felt frustrated that the Qatar National Library closes at 8 p.m.?
    Do you find your mind comes alive only after sunset — when the world is quiet, and your thoughts finally flow?
    Or maybe you just need more peaceful time to focus on your studies, away from the noise of the day?

    Good news! ✨
    QNL has announced a new “Night Studies” service, allowing registered users to book a study space after regular hours.
    Now you can enjoy the inspiring atmosphere of the library — the calm, the creativity, and that unique “QNL vibe” — even at night.

    📚 Opening Hours:
    🗓️ Friday – Wednesday: 9:00 PM – 6:00 AM (next day)
    🕘 Thursday: 9:00 PM – 9:00 AM (Friday morning)
    🔸 Available for QNL members aged 18 and above.

    Whether you’re preparing for exams, writing a paper, or simply seeking a tranquil place to think, this new service is designed for you.
    Because sometimes, the best ideas come after dark. 🌌

    Book  your  space   here !

    2025–2026 cruise season begins - Doha

     






    Set sail for new adventures 🌊✨ as the 2025–2026 #cruise season begins at #OldDohaPort! From November 9 to May 2026, over 70 luxurious cruise ships will dock at #TheTerminal, offering unforgettable journeys and exceptional experiences. ⚓️🇶🇦 #MwaniQatar #Qatar #الموسم_السياحي_2025_2026

    Tuesday, November 04, 2025

    The Grand Egyptian Museum opened near Giza Pyramid

     

    Desert Fox in the Merzouga Region, Morocco

     

    Al Jazeera Network Studio Building by Veech X Veech

     

    Thursday, October 30, 2025

    QM Gallery Katara - light art exhibition

     

    Wednesday, October 29, 2025

    ❤️ Red Heart Emoji Etiquette in the Middle East




    The red heart emoji is one of the most universal symbols of love and warmth — but in the Middle East, it carries a bit more cultural weight. While Western users freely sprinkle ❤️ in friendly messages, people in Arab and Muslim-majority countries use it with more care, mindful of social and cultural context.

    Within families, sending a red heart to a mother, sister, daughter, or aunt is completely natural and seen as a gesture of affection and respect. It’s a warm reminder of family ties — and perfectly acceptable in Islamic culture.

    However, when the ❤️ appears between non-related men and women, it may be interpreted as romantic or intimate, which can cause embarrassment or misunderstanding. That’s why many users prefer neutral colors — such as the 🤍 white heart (purity and sincerity), 💛 yellow heart (friendship), or 💚 green heart (peace and faith).

    In short, the key is intent and relationship. In the Middle East, a red heart is still powerful — just best reserved for family and close loved ones.



    Simple weather symbols - Boys Bella+Canvas Tri-blend Long Sleeve Shirt

     


    This Boys’ Long Sleeve Tri-Blend T-Shirt features simple weather symbols — sun, clouds, rain, snow, and thunderstorm — printed on a sleek black shirt. Soft, durable, and designed for everyday comfort, it’s perfect for curious kids who love meteorology and nature .








    expat Qatar