Iraqi Cultural Week at Darb Al Saai Wraps Up

Doha: The Iraqi Cultural Week in Qatar, organized by the Ministry of Culture in partnership with the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities of the Republic of Iraq, concluded Sunday evening at Darb Al Saai in the Umm Salal area. According to Qatar News Agency, the event aimed to enhance cultural and artistic exchange between the two nations and showcase Iraq's rich cultural heritage through a blend of arts, heritage, and diverse cultural activities. The closing ceremony was attended by HE Minister of Culture Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al-Thani and HE Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities of the Republic of Iraq, Dr. Ahmed Fakak Al Badrani. The four-day event attracted a large audience, with visitors from various nationalities enjoying the diverse performances and activities, reinforcing bilateral cultural cooperation between Qatar and Iraq. The Iraqi Cultural Week featured exhibitions, musical performances of Jalghee and Baghdadi Maqam, participation from the traditional Bashatabiya group a nd the Iraqi Al Joubi group, a concert by the Iraqi National Heritage Music Ensemble, and traditional Iraqi Dabke performances that combined entertainment with authentic heritage. HE Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities of the Republic of Iraq, Dr. Ahmed Fakak Al Badrani highlighted Qatar's role as a hub for cultural exchange, noting that the country hosts cultural weeks for various nations, including Iraq. He expressed his happiness that Qatar hosted the Iraqi Cultural Week, particularly at Darb Al Saai, which he described as an ideal venue for such events due to its heritage design. His Excellency explained that the Iraqi Cultural Week featured performances by musical groups that showcased Iraqi heritage alongside modern elements, aiming to introduce Iraqi art to the Qatari people. He emphasized the importance of cultural diplomacy in bringing peoples together and welcomed the prospect of Baghdad hosting a Qatari Cultural Week in the near future. Director of the Culture and Arts Department at the Ministry of Culture, Abdulrahman Al Dulaimi, highlighted that the Iraqi Cultural Week was more than just a series of performances; it served as a bridge of creativity linking two rich heritages and a window into the depth and authenticity of Iraqi culture. He noted the enthusiastic response from the audience, confirming that culture is the strongest means of fostering dialogue and understanding between peoples. Al Dulaimi also expressed gratitude to the Iraqi Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities and all the artists and creators who made the week a memorable event.