Doha: The Qatar International Falcons and Hunting Festival, known as "Marmi," is dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of falconry in Qatar. Since its inclusion in UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2011, the festival has emphasized falconry's global significance. Since its inception in 2010, Marmi has engaged children and young people through competitions that foster an early connection to this heritage. According to Qatar News Agency, the festival initially featured two main competitions aimed at young participants: the Young Falconer competition, which included educational programs about falconry basics, and the Promising Falconer competition, which focused on practical application. The Promising Falconer competition is open to children aged 5 to 16 and involves a Da'w competition over 200 meters, with specific conditions for the falcons used. Mohammed Mubarak Al Ali, Chairman of the Committees and Official Spokesman for the Marmi Festiva l, emphasized the festival's role in promoting Qatari heritage among young people. He noted that the festival has evolved over the years, shifting focus from knowledge-based competitions to practical applications in falconry. Al Ali further explained that children who once participated in these competitions have now advanced to professional-level events, highlighting the festival's success in preserving Qatar's popular heritage. Saad Ali Al Muhannadi, a falconry heritage expert, underscored the importance of passing this heritage down through generations, stating that it is a shared responsibility and national duty. Al Muhannadi added that falconry fosters valuable skills such as discernment, discipline, and responsibility in children, while also offering a constructive alternative to digital entertainment. He stressed the importance of balancing falconry with academic pursuits, ensuring it complements children's education. Nasser Rashid Al Nuaimi, a member of the Promising Falconer Committee, highlighted falconry's role in preserving cultural identity and fostering a sense of belonging among youth. He praised the Marmi Festival's efforts in educating young people about falconry, ensuring a proper transfer of knowledge and skills. Al Nuaimi also lauded the State of Qatar's support in developing falconry-related events, contributing to the preservation and continuity of this heritage for future generations.