We all know Ramadan is a significant time of the year in Qatar given the spiritual importance and traditional practices. Lifestyles change, street decorations change and food practices change; however, there are some distinct norms in Qatar that many might be unaware of.
The ILoveQatar.net (ILQ) team is here to shed light on some unknown interesting facts on what takes place in Doha during Ramadan.
With no specific trace of initiation, this tradition has been growing over the recent years. Commencing from the streets of Corniche, now having migrated towards Katara a regular car parade takes place to showcase some of Qatar’s automotive treasures.
Vintage cars, to highly modified cars or trucks even; keeping the spirit light-hearted many come out ahead of Iftar for an episode of entertainment. The fun energy of the parade attracts children and adults alike.
Given that Ramadan is a time of gathering for families and friends; the good old traditional household games are one of the best ways of interaction. Classic games such as carrom, ludo, monopoly and cards are some of the favourites.
If you're looking to buy board games, Ramadan is a great time to get your hands on them, as vendors are well aware of the season favourites and put out favourable offers.
RELATED: Do you know these traditional games of Qatar?
A Ramadan tradition that is practised specifically in Qatar and a few other countries of the Gulf region is a celebration called Garangao.
The tradition takes place on the 14th night of Ramadan and is a celebration for children to mark the success of having fasted halfway through the month of Ramadan.
The celebration witnesses children decked up in traditional Qatari outfits visiting their neighbours and locality while singing a special Garangao song. In return, kids are given chocolates, candies and nuts!
In modern-day, this occasion is celebrated more with Garangao-themed events in many malls & leisure places that maintain the essence of the age-old tradition.
Ghabga is a cultural practice in Qatar during the Holy Month of Ramadan, which is ideally a gathering with loved ones. The time of this gathering is after the breaking of the fast meal called 'Iftar' and before the start of the fast meal called 'Sohour'.
This is usually a dinner meal gathering done amongst Qataris where heavier main courses are served.
Some hotels and restaurants have now picked up on this tradition and offer Ghabga meals as part of their Ramadan offerings, providing a spin on this tradition.
If you’ve been around Doha for a while, the sighting of newly purchased cars or the transportation of newly shipped cars would’ve caught your eye. While many wonder what cars have to do with Ramadan; it happens to be one of the best seasons to make that purchase.
Car distributors thrive on the festive season and release annual promotions and discounts like no other time of the year.
RELATED: Special offers & promotions for Ramadan 2024
While there is a basic understanding that Ramadan equates to late nights in Qatar. Aside from relaxing leisure activities, the late hours of the night tend to be a time for many sporting activities.
Be in personal groups or organised sports tournaments, there is something for everyone to take part in.
Homes in Qatar undergo significant change and transformation when the time of Ramadan comes along. Exquisite crockery, tea sets and home decor get replaced with all things simple and traditional.
Rooting back to classic ways, printed tablecloths and enamel teapots make their grand entry back.
A typical Qatari lady has a rather sophisticated and westernized dress code aside from the Abaya; especially in the context of daily wear and event wear. However, at the time of Ramadan, this look transforms into one that is more traditional and culturally rooted. Furthermore, comfort and lightweight clothes are given utmost preference.
Ladies of the region tend to tilt more towards the locally known “jalabiya” which is a loosely fit dress. Vibrant colours, floral prints and loose cuts are the chosen sort; although designers have their own trendy take on it.
Straying away from modern, delicate ornaments, ladies pull out classic gold for the month of Ramadan. Traditional Qatari gold jewellery has a distinct look of its own. Chunky connectors, put together with strings of dainty gold beads; with a pop colour added by green or red gems typically.
Chains, chokers, bangles, and rings are the most typical pieces that ladies tend to incline towards on a day-to-day basis given that the gathering culture prevails throughout the month.
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Did you know about these Ramadan happenings in Qatar? Which of these did you find most interesting? Let us know in the comments section. And don't forget to like and share this article- it keeps us going!
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