by Shaival Dalal
Hundreds of visitors thronged Katara to see over a hundred traditional Arabian dhows of various types berthed along the shores for the third Traditional Dhow Festival, which concludes today. The dhows on display at the five-day event included sambuk, jalboot, baggarah, bateel and shoi, each of which had specific uses in the past, including transportation, fishing and pearl diving. The dhows have come from the GCC states as well as India, Iran and Zanzibar to participate in the annual event. Apart from the dhow show, the festival features an exhibition of fishing gear and other items related to maritime activities. It also includes dhow cruises, cultural shows, workshops and competitions.
