Qatar National Day is also known as Founder’s Day and is celebrated on December 18 each year. It celebrates the rise of Sheikh Jassem as the father and founder of Qatar. It is a day for the people of Qatar to celebrate the rebirth of their country. Qatar is a wealthy nation and is widely recognized as a place for commercial activities in the new world. Qatar National Day celebrates such history and those who have worked hard towards making it what it is now. The country has kept its traditions and history alive over time, thus it is worth celebrating.
History of Qatar National Day
Qatar National Day was established by Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani (then crown prince and heir apparent) on June 21, 2007, to commemorate Qatar’s 1878 unification by Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani, who created a manageable level of autonomy for the peninsular tribes and abated intruders such as the British. The holiday is also called Founder’s Day. It holds a high significance for the Qatar people and reminds them of their unity and core values: loyalty, solidarity, and pride.Initially, this holiday was celebrated on September 3, which coincides with Qatar gaining independence in 1971, but it was later moved to be celebrated on December 18. The unification being commemorated entails many battles for survival and independence. Qatar was formerly dependent on the Bahraini Al Khalifas on the eastern seaboard of the Qatari peninsula, but hatred brewed and rebels rose against the Khalifas, who sent their naval forces to destroy the rebels in Al Wakrah in 1867, contravening the General Maritime Treaty of 1820. The British then responded diplomatically by reprimanding Bahrain and negotiating with Qatar, ruled by Sheik Muhammed bin Thani, whose dynasty continues till today.In 1916, Qatar became a British protectorate and was only able to become independent after the British disengaged politically from the Persian Gulf; this was officially announced in 1968 as a result of the strain from the Second World War.
Qatar National Day timeline
The annual celebration of Qatar is done to commemorate the country’s unification on December 18.
Qatar officially falls under British rule until after World War II.
Following the clamor for independence from Arab countries, Qatar declares itself an independent state on September 3.
Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani declares December 18 Qatar National Day.
Qatar National Day FAQs
When is Qatar National Day celebrated?
Qatar National Day is celebrated on December 18th every year.
What happens on Qatar National Day?
Various things happen, from fireworks to the display of cars, to parades by ministries.
What is the significance of Qatar National Day?
The day is celebrated to reawaken the spirit of patriotism amongst the local people.
How to Observe Qatar National Day
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Get ready to participate in the Darb Al Saai
The Darb Al Saai is a memorable way to make this a national event. Participating in the event is a great way to make friends and create new memories.
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Get fireworks ready to celebrate
Imagine a huge event without fireworks; it does not sound fun. Having fireworks will undoubtedly make the event fun and colorful for you and your friends.
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Make plans to go out with friends and family
Spending a day with family and friends will make for an exciting way to celebrate the event. You can visit the Lagoons Mall with your loved ones.
5 Facts About Qatar National Day You Never Knew
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Fireworks show
During the Qatar National Day celebration, there are marvelous fireworks displays at different locations all over Qatar, by now an integral part of the celebration
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Parades by different ministries
During the day, several ministries are featured in a parade in their beautiful outfits.
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2016 Cancellation
In 2016, Qatar canceled all of its National Day celebrations to show support for the people of Aleppo during the ongoing shelling by Syrian government forces.
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Air show in Qatar
Air shows are always on display for the public to view, especially during the early hours of the day.
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Display of classic cars
Old cars formerly owned by the government are displayed to the public.
Why Qatar National Day is Important
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It's a day to show love
Qatar National Day is a national holiday where people have time to rest away from life’s other activities and also have the opportunity to come together to show love to one another.
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It stirs patriotism
Qatar National Day provides the opportunity for the Qataris to show their love and loyalty to the country, deepening their sense of patriotism.
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Strengthens the bonds of family and friends
Qatar National Day is an opportunity for Qataris to hang out and have fun with their friends and families, thereby strengthening their bonds.
Qatar National Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | December 18 | Sunday |
| 2023 | December 18 | Monday |
| 2024 | December 18 | Wednesday |
| 2025 | December 18 | Thursday |
| 2026 | December 18 | Friday |
