BY Shazia Siddiqui
The 16th edition of the Qatar International Falcons and Hunting Festival, known as Marmi 2025, commenced on January 1 in the Marmi area at Sealine. This prestigious festival, a hallmark of Qatar’s cultural calendar, will continue until February 1, 2025. Under the patronage of HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani and supported by the Social and Sport Contribution Fund (DAAM), the event is organized by the Qatari Society of Algannas (AGQS). The festival’s opening day featured the Haddad Al-Tahaddi contest, with 23 groups competing.
Despite fierce competition, the Farkh Shaheen falcons triumphed, and the second round of contests is set for January 2. Marmi Festival Chairman, Miteb Mubarak Al Qahtani, emphasized the enduring importance of falconry as a cultural legacy passed through generations. Speaking to the Qatar News Agency (QNA), Al Qahtani highlighted the festival’s role in inspiring children and young people to cherish and preserve this deep-rooted tradition. The record turnout of visitors underscores the community’s deep interest in falconry, cementing its status as a beloved national and regional heritage.
Vice-Chairman Abdulwaheb bin Omair Al Nuaimi noted that the 16th edition serves as a vital platform for falconers and hunting enthusiasts. The event has grown to become a favored destination for tourists, residents, and citizens alike, offering a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich falconry legacy. The festival is an integral part of Qatar’s commitment to preserving falconry, a practice recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage. Qatar’s efforts to maintain and promote falconry have positioned the nation as a global leader in this field.
With competitions like Haddad Al-Tahaddi drawing large crowds, the event celebrates the skill and dedication of falconers while providing an engaging spectacle for visitors. Chairman of the Hadad Al-Tahadi Committee, Shawi Al Kaabi, commended the falconers for their remarkable efforts, which have captivated audiences during the event’s opening days. The Marmi Festival has also emerged as a key attraction for foreign tourists, offering a blend of traditional sports and Qatari hospitality.
The organizing committee ensures that visitors enjoy a comfortable and enriching experience, further enhancing the festival’s appeal. Marmi 2025 exemplifies Qatar’s dedication to preserving its heritage while promoting it on a global stage. By fostering interest in falconry among younger generations and engaging a diverse audience, the festival continues to be a beacon of cultural pride and international admiration.
