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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