DOHA: Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) has finalised preparations for Eid Al Fitr celebrations, with events and activities which start on the first day of Eid and run for 10 days in shopping centres and for more than 35 days at the Wanasa Entertainment City at Doha Exhibition Centre.
“We have made necessary arrangements to start the Eid festival and receive Qatar’s guests at the Abu Samra border and Doha International Airport.
“We are looking forward with great excitement to starting celebrations for citizens, residents, and tourists,” said Abdulla Al Bader, Chairman of the Eid festival organising committee.
Events include folklore games, entertainment, contests, crafts, performances, fireworks, heritage exhibitions and concerts.
This year, QTA has expanded partnership with entities, including the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage; the Cultural District (Katara), Souq Waqif, Aquapark, Sawt Al Rayan, The Pearl Qatar, Museum of Islamic Art, Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani Museum, Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve, Qatar Air Sports Committee, Lusail Shooting Club.
Participating malls and commercial centres comprise Villaggio, City Center, Landmark Mall, Hyatt Plaza, Lagoona Mall and Al Khor Mall.
“We have experienced excellent cooperation this year with government bodies which have helped us prepare a rich programme of activities and events that suit all ages.
Festivities will extend beyond the 10 days of Eid and continue until September 15 at Wanasa Entertainment City,” said Al Bader.
The highlight of this year’s festival is Wanasa Entertainment City.
Spread over 15,000 square meters, the full-fledged entertainment city will host activities, including a circus show, games, plays, presentations of cartoon characters, restaurants, and 150 shopping stands.
Events and shows in the city will run from August 8 to September 15.
QTA will also host live shows and events in shopping centres during the 10 days of Eid. The public can watch parade shows, Japanese drummers, the Popeye play, music festivals, the Angry Birds show, magic shows, Zuma-Zuma, Rola-Rola, Snow White and other shows in all eight venues from 2pm from August 8 to 17.
The Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage will take part with activities, including traditional performances reflecting the local heritage, games, entertainment, contests and crafts at the Heritage Village and Bida Park, from 6pm to midnight.
The Museum of Islamic Art and Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani Museum will welcome visitors during Eid from 9am to 10pm and 9am to 6pm, respectively.
Starting the first day of Eid, Qatar National Theatre will host Al Firjan starring Ghanem Al Sulaiti, while Sawt Al Rayan and Souq Waqif will host concerts featuring top artistes.
The Pearl Qatar is joining celebration with face painting and “magic balloon” shows for kids, while Aqua Park will host games and activities for children.
Many institutions have joined festivities for the first time. Qatar Sports Club will host Monte Carlo circus during the first week of Eid, Qatar Air Sports Committee will offer air tours during the 10 days of Eid.
Lusail Shooting Club will open its doors from the fourth day of Eid for shooting lessons and activities.
Tailor-made travel packages, including a choice of hotels and tours, will be available on the QTA website for visitors, in coordination with Qatar Airways and Regency Travel.
The Peninsula
