Big Fan Turnout for Darb Al Saai Events

Umm salal: The 2025 National Day activities continued today at Darb Al Saai in the Umm Salal area under the slogan "With You It Rises, From You It Waits," organized by the Ministry of Culture from Dec. 10 to 20. According to Qatar News Agency, the events saw a large public turnout from citizens and residents, with families being the most prominent attendees as they brought their children to enjoy the activities amid a distinctive traditional atmosphere. The Darb Al Saai program features a variety of heritage shows, entertainment activities, competitions, and different forms of art. The Ministry of Interior is participating in Darb Al Saai through a distinguished pavilion designed as a fully integrated Security Village, showcasing its modern security system and broad community engagement. Nearly fifteen specialized departments and units are taking part, offering a unique mix of security education, direct services, and innovative interactive activities for all age groups. The ministry's participation aims to strengthen community partnership and direct communication with the public, highlighting the vital role the Ministry of Interior plays in maintaining national security and stability, while introducing younger generations to the authentic Qatari heritage and values that form the foundation of security and community work. The operational and training aspect is demonstrated by the participation of the Police Academy, which showcases the readiness of its cadets through military and musical performances to introduce youth to its academic programs. The General Directorate of Civil Defense presents live demonstrations and simulations of firefighting and rescue operations, along with distributing crucial educational materials on public safety and fire prevention. The Women's Police Institute highlights the role and skills of Qatari women in the field of security. These efforts are complemented by the Police Sports Federation, which organizes sports and competitive activities to promote fitness and sportsmanship. I n terms of community engagement, the Community Policing Department promotes the concept of 'the police officer is my friend' and receives suggestions to strengthen the relationship between the police and the public. Specialized departments also showcase their field efforts and equipment. The Traffic Department organizes awareness activities on road safety and offers children the chance to participate in the 'Challenge Arena' to learn safe driving rules. The Fazaa emergency response unit demonstrates its rapid response mechanisms for urgent reports, while the Coast and Border Security Department displays its equipment and technologies used in protecting the nation's borders and presents educational material on marine safety. The Narcotics Control Department delivers intensive awareness messages on the dangers of drugs. The Juvenile Police Department showcases its efforts in child protection and provides educational materials to prevent behavioral risks and guide young people. The Qatar National Archive is p articipating with a dedicated pavilion aimed at introducing the public to its mission. Mohammed Hassan Al-Shahrani, Head of the Private Documents Section, stated that this year's participation adopts a renewed and distinctive approach, ensuring the pavilion aligns with the identity of Qatar's national emblem and presents the historical development of the emblem in a simplified, audience-friendly manner. He noted that a key focus of the pavilion is direct engagement with visitors, including a photography corner, one of the most popular attractions across age groups. He explained that the Archive pavilion saw remarkable turnout from various age groups, including heritage enthusiasts, families, and youth, reflecting the Qatari community's interest in national history and archival content preserved for future generations. The Al-Bidaa heritage activity at Darb Al Saai 2025 offers an advanced model of maritime heritage presentation through a space designed to reinterpret the history of Qatar's seafaring professi ons in a modern way, using live documentation and interactive experience. This year, the activity features a clear expansion in content, combining realistic simulation of pearl-diving and seafaring environments with displays of traditional tools used in these professions. It also includes field demonstrations that bring to life the details of maritime work as it was practiced in the past, alongside structured explanations of its role in shaping Qatar's economic and social identity. Ibrahim Al Jaber, a participant in the Al-Tawwash (pearl merchant) shop within the Al Bidaa activity, said he is presenting a distinguished collection of Qatari pearls along with rare artifacts and documentary photographs. Nayef Mallallah Al-Muhannadi, head of the Al-Maha Folk Arts Troupe, said that the troupe's participation this year is considered a qualitative addition to maritime arts. He noted that this is the first time the troupe has participated with a large number of Qatari nahhams (traditional sea chanters), which has given the performance a distinct character and strong presence. Meanwhile, the Maritime Museum at Darb Al Saai is one of the main attractions drawing visitors due to its comprehensive experience showcasing Qatar's maritime history and its role in shaping national identity. The museum includes a wide collection of original heritage items such as pearl-diving and seafaring tools, old maps and navigation routes, as well as models of traditional boats used by ancestors in their voyages. It also documents maritime professions and their evolution through different eras.