Culture of Qatar

Part of a series on the
Culture of Qatar
History
People Qataris
Languages
Traditions Clothing
Mythology and folklore May and Gilan
Cuisine
Festivals Public holidays
Religion
Art Architecture of Qatar Collecting practices of the Al-Thani Family Public art in Qatar
Literature Qatari folklore
Music and performing arts
Media Radio Television Cinema
Sport
Monuments World Heritage Sites
Symbols Flag Coat of arms National anthem
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The culture of Qatar is strongly influenced by traditional Bedouin culture, with less acute influence deriving from India, East Africa, and elsewhere in the Persian Gulf. The peninsula's harsh climate has historically shaped the lifestyle of its inhabitants, driving a reliance on the sea for sustenance and fostering a distinct emphasis on maritime activities within local culture.^[1] Arts and literature themes are often related to sea-based activities. Qatari folklore and music best exemplify the state's marine tradition, with pearling trips serving as the main inspiration for music and traditional Qatari myths like May and Ghilân being centered around the sea.^[2]

Although visual arts were historically unpopular due to Islam's stance on depictions of sentient beings, the mid-20th century heralded a transformative era in Qatari arts, catalyzed by newfound prosperity from oil exports.^[3] This period witnessed the emergence of the modern Qatari art movement, with artists such as Jassim Zaini, Yousef Ahmad, and Ali Hassan pioneering the transition to a vibrant contemporary art scene supported by government and institutions like the Qatari Fine Arts Society, the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Heritage, and in contemporary times, Qatar Museums.^[4] Parallel to Qatar's artistic renaissance, its literary tradition underwent a renaissance of its own. Originating in the 19th century, Qatari literature evolved in response to Qatar's social and economic development. While Nabati poetry initially held sway,^[5] the post-1950 era saw a proliferation of literary genres like short stories and novels, reflecting increasing educational opportunities. Notably, the mass participation of Qatari women in the modern literature movement broke social norms, as women were historically less active in traditional forms of art.^[6]

Beyond arts and literature, Qatari society is characterized by various traditions and customs deeply rooted in its history as an Arab-Islamic country. Nomadic pastoralism, principally of camels, and pearl fishing were once cornerstone livelihoods, with the Bedouin and Hadar (settled) communities each contributing unique customs and social structures. Central to Qatari social life is the majlis, a communal gathering space where traditions, storytelling, and social interactions converge. Family values, community ties, and hospitality are among the most essential values in local society.^[7] Cultural policies and affairs are regulated by the Ministry of Culture. The current minister is Abdulrahman bin Hamad bin Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani.^[8]