Credit – CNN’s POV: Abu Dhabi
In a special POV: Qatar, CNN’s Bijan Hosseini explores Qatar through the lens of art, adventure, and wellness seeing how the country is preserving traditions while embracing modernity, and meeting locals who help show him the different sides of their country.
Hosseini finds that one of the best places to experience the blend of old and new is Souq Waqif. Built in the late 18th century, and revamped in the 21st, the souq is the heart of Doha. Here, he meets Qatari food influencer and vlogger Khaled ‘Choice’ Rayes who takes him to famous food spots and explains the souq’s history, “Souq Waqif was a standing souq, so the port was in the middle of the souq literally. So, ships from all over would come in and people would trade while standing.”
Qatar has its sight set on becoming a global sports destination and Hosseini sees how rock climbing, paratriking, and sandboarding are all central to this goal, as well as providing adventurous tourists and locals with a thrilling pastime.
Next, Hosseini sees how an organic farm in the desert is utilising sustainable practices. The Head Host at Heenat Salma Farm is Felix Muraya, who grew up farming in Kenya and brought his knowledge to Qatar. He explains that the farm began growing 11 crops, but now grows nearly 40 different kinds, while running creative workshops that teach and encourage sustainable farming.
Katara is the dedicated cultural district in Doha, hosting film festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Singer-songwriter Aisha Al Zaiana tells CNN, “This place is considered a creative hub, it’s like the perfect blend of culture and tradition.” Aisha was featured on the official 2022 FIFA World Cup song, and she invites Hosseini into the recording studio to laydown a backing track inspired by the traditional chants of pearl divers.
The Zulal Wellness Resort in the north of the country specialises in TAIM – traditional Arabic and Islamic medicine – originating from the seventh century. While visiting, Hosseini receives a consultation from Holistic Health Manager Dr. Mubaris Ahamed, before experiencing some of the treatments on offer.
Finally, Hosseini travels to the UNESCO-recognised natural reserve Khor Al Adaid, or Inland Sea. Looking out over the stunning vistas, he reflects on his time in Qatar, “When you see how expansive the desert is, it’s just mind boggling to think that people used to trek it, and Qatar was an important meeting point. It served as this crossroads of civilization. People coming from the west and from the east and they all had to traverse this land.”
