DOHA: Katara yesterday honoured participants and sponsors of the historic journey of the dhow Fath Al Kheir.
Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, Katara General Manager, praised the crew — captain Hassan bin Isa Al Kaabi and 44 sailors — for their courage and prowess in dealing with different climatic conditions during the 27-day journey. “You were the best ambassadors of Qatari culture and heritage, and presented a bright and vibrant picture of our maritime history, giving the coming generations the best example in their education and cultivate them with the legacy,” he said.
He stressed that Katara’s support for the journey reflecting its commitment to educate the youth of Qatar about the travel across the seas by organising innovative programmes and cultural and artistic events, which focused on the Qatari culture and civilisation. He hoped Fath Al Kheir would tour around the world in the future.
The trip started from Katara Beach on November 22 under the auspices of the Father Emir H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. The traditional dhow sailed to five Gulf countries — Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Oman and the UAE — and returned on National Day. The dhow was welcomed with a traditional celebration at Katara Beach featuring popular songs, usually repeated by sailors during diving trips and trade travel, accompanied by an Ardha dance. The Peninsula
