Souq Waqif corridors decorated for Qatar National Day.
DOHA: As Qatar celebrates National Day, Souq Waqif stands ready to embrace one of the country’s most cherished traditions, once again turning into a lively and vibrant centre of celebration.
This year, the historic marketplace is more than just a backdrop for festivities as the excitement of Qatar National Day coincides with the energy of the Arab Cup and the long-awaited return of the National Day parade after a three-year hiatus. Souq Waqif is the heartbeat of a nation ready to come together and celebrate.
“Being at Souq Waqif this week has been truly magical. The blend of Qatar National Day preparations and the vibrant energy of Arab Cup celebrations makes this time of year extra special,” says Meetu Thaploo, a visitor from Al Wakrah. “The atmosphere at the souq is alive with excitement, with fans celebrating their teams’ adding a renewed sense of pride and passion. It almost reminds me of the energy we felt during the FIFA World Cup.” This year’s celebration is bound to be unforgettable.” she added.
The palpable excitement recalls the electric atmosphere during the 2022 World Cup, when Qatar’s National Day and the World Cup final were marked on the same night. This year, the National Day celebrations fall on the night of the Arab Cup final, adding an extra layer of fervour to an already momentous occasion.
Souq Waqif’s charm lies not just in its bustling market stalls but in the way it brings people together, both locals and visitors, to celebrate the essence of Qatar’s identity.it has always been a cultural hub for people to come together, especially during moments like these.
“I have always loved spending time at Souq Waqif it’s one of those places where you truly feel the spirit of Qatar,” says long-time resident Fouzia Zafar. “As my parents and I walked through the souq today. The shops are decorated, and there’s this strong sense of pride. The December weather makes it the perfect time to be outdoors, and it’s the ideal way to experience the National Day vibe with my family.”
For years, Souq Waqif has always played a central role in National Day celebrations.
“I’m so excited for Qatar National Day, especially since the parade is returning after three years,” says Khansa Rasha. “Every year, we would head to the Corniche in the morning for the parade. The roads along the Corniche would be closed, and for us, the journey to the celebrations would start at Souq Waqif. It used to be the place where we parked our cars before heading to the parade back when the metro wasn’t in operation, and this was how most people would start their day. After the parade, everyone would gather back at Souq Waqif or Bidda Park, to continue celebrating,” she said.
As families and visitors from all over the GCC pour into the souq this year, shopkeepers prepare their stalls filled with traditional clothing, accessories, and souvenirs celebrating Qatar’s pride and spirit of the Arab cup.
“We’ve been busy weeks preparing for National Day and the Arab Cup,” shared a gift shop owner who wished to remain anonymous. “ We have something for everyone to celebrate. It’s a great feeling to see the souq come alive with so many people and energy this time of year.”
It’s not just the shops and visitors contributing to the festive energy the restaurants in Souq Waqif are also gearing up to welcome crowds with delicious traditional dishes and special offerings. “For National Day, we made cakes in the design of the Qatari flag and handed them out as a treat to our customers and visitors,” says Diaa, a restaurant manager at the souq.
“It’s our way of contributing to the festive atmosphere and making everyone feel part of the celebration,” he said.
