Qatar National Day (QND), which falls on December 18, is a day of great joy and pride for Qataris. It is reflected in the festivities of the day beginning with the QND parade at the Corniche and later by scores of art and culture activities to reinforce the values of belonging. Fireworks lit up the night sky to conclude the day.
But QND celebrations are not just for Qatari citizens alone. The vast majority of Qatar’s population is made up of expatriates who love this country just as much and take part in the festivities with a sense of belonging that is reminiscent of a second home. This year was special because it coincided with the spectacular hosting of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
A few expatriates QH spoke to opened their hearts to reflect on the day and what it means to them.
Saman J.
Blogger
Co-Founder
@hauteside_official
Living away from home, what is the significance of Qatar National Day for you as an expat?
I have deep love for Qatar. We celebrate QND like the nation itself; Qatar is a country that knows how to keep its rich traditions and history alive. QND is a significant part of how the country has thrived and grown. For us, Qatar is the world’s safest country where we have freedom to live our lives in the best possible way.
Is Qatar second home to you? Do you take part in the festivities?
Definitely. I always take part in all festivities – all thanks to the government of Qatar which arranges so many activities for the residents. But above all, I love the QND parade held every year at Corniche. This year, with the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, approximately 4,500 small and big events took place throughout the country. These included concerts, activities related to art and culture, fireworks, musical shows, and many other performances showcasing the rich traditions of the country.
How do you relate to the day this year where it coincided with the World Cup?
The year 2022 is more special than ever as Qatar hosted the FIFA World Cup, with the final played on the same day the country celebrates its National Day.
I feel so honoured and proud being a Qatar resident. The World Cup was the first to be held in the Arab and Muslim world. Watching so many expats enjoying freely, I believe Qatar hosted one of the best World Cup editions till date and am sure, the country will host more successful events in the future.
Elisabete Reis
Image Consultant
Etiquette I Protocol coach
@glamyourimage
Living away from home, what is the significance of Qatar National Day for you as an expat?
QND is quite special to us because we came to Qatar in 2006 and the National Day was decreed the next year by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who, as the Crown Prince was heir apparent at the time. It is very interesting for us to have been here since the beginning and witness all the improvements in how the event has been celebrated. It is really special to us.
Is Qatar second home to you? Do you take part in the festivities?
Absolutely. It’s been home to us since 2006. Our daughter was born here and our sons also grew up here so this is definitely home to all of us. We do take part in the festivities and we do like to watch the parade . We like to go to QND celebration parties wearing maroon.
How do you relate to the day this year where it coincided with the World Cup?
It was special with a double celebration because it coincided with the World Cup final and we were very excited about it and hoping for an amazing final with Portugal lifting the Cup (Morocco beat Portugal in the quarter-final).
Shehar Bano Rizvi
Author of Virsa, an award-winning cook book, photographer
@thepmpmom
Living away from home, what is the significance of Qatar National Day for you as an expat?
My husband and I moved to Qatar back in 2004 right after our wedding. Qatar has a very special place in our hearts as we started our lives together in Doha. As expats, we love and celebrate the country that has given us a safe environment to build our lives and raise our kids.
Is Qatar second home to you? Do you take part in the festivities?
Qatar is home away from home. All three of my kids were born here, our home is here, and hopefully, our entire lives too. This IS home. And yes of course, we do celebrate it!
How do you relate to the day this year where it coincided with the World Cup?
We were here when Qatar won the bid for the FIFA World Cup in 2010, and are delighted to be here to witness it all happening! We feel that we have been a part of Qatar’s journey and feel very proud of the country we call home. Qatar has done a fabulous job at hosting the FIFA World Cup 2022. It has been epic so far. This QND was historic!
Mahdiya Farook
Digital Creator
@mahdiya_farook
Living away from home, what is the significance of Qatar National Day for you as an expat?
With approximately, 90% of Qatari population made up of expats, Qatar has ensured that they feel as much at home as their citizens. For many residents, Qatar is not just home away from home but a place which gives stability, peace and safety. QND celebrations have always been something that all of us look forward to, dress up and be proud of. For me, the QND is a symbol of unity for all Qatari residents regardless of nationality.
Is Qatar second home to you? Do you take part in the festivities?
Qatar is more than a second home; it is my home. My whole family, including my mom and siblings live here. I am one of the fortunate ones. I cannot think of another place to go and start my life. Qatari traditions – whether it is burning the Bukhoor or serving Gahwa has now become part of our lifestyle. We always dress up and show up on QND; I don’t visit the parade but do other activities with friends and workplace.
How do you relate to the day this year where it coincided with the World Cup?
It was a double celebration. As Qatari residents, I truly feel Qatar is finally, on the international roadmap. Everyone knows Qatar and is surprised by how much the country has evolved. Many tourists come here with preconceived notions about Qatar, but are eventually blown over by the hospitality, flexibility, and the safety of the country. This year was special because not only did an Arab nation host the World Cup but did it successfully. Each and every Qatari resident contributed to it directly or indirectly. The country has been built by migrants who have been pivotal in its success. So for all of us, QND is not just another day but a mark of our very own success story!
Aaliya Kh.
Content Creator
aaliya_halawallah
Living away from home, what is the significance of Qatar National Day for you as an expat?
QND holds high significance for all of us and is celebrated with equal vigour and pride. “One Love” — the theme of this year’s QND — aimed at unifying citizens and residents holds a very special place in my heart
Is Qatar second home to you? Do you take part in the festivities?
Qatar is definitely home to me, ever more as my flying career took off here, I got promoted in world’s 5 star airlines, travelled and explored the world. Every time, I learned new things and met so many people from different walks of life that changed me as a person and my perspective in every way. I met my life partner here in Doha and went on to become mom as well. We definitely take part in the festivities as the culture, core values of loyalty, solidarity and pride is something we all have imbibed.
How do you relate to the day this year where it coincided with the World Cup?
Qatar has made us incredibly proud of being the first Arab nation to hold a world event like FIFA World Cup. We have welcomed people from all over the world with open arms. Showcasing what we stand for, celebrating the QND with the world is an exhilarating and unique experience.
