AL-Monitor Doha: Ramadan festivities arrive to the Old Port
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Ramadan in Doha blends tradition with celebration, offering a rich array of experiences. The Throwback Food Festival at Old Doha Port revives culinary heritage, while the iconic Iftar Cannon fosters a shared festive spirit. Sports enthusiasts can take part in the Sports for All Ladies Ramadan Series, while cultural and shopping delights await at the Pearl Ramadan Bazaar and Mahaseel Festival.
Leading the week: Ramadan at Doha Old Port
Musaherati perform at Old Doha Port on March 4, 2025. (Old Doha Port)
Throwback Food Festival 2025
Doha’s Throwback Food Festival is back for its second edition, reviving cherished flavors and traditions for another unforgettable Ramadan experience. Indulge in mouthwatering street food and iconic dishes from beloved restaurants while celebrating Qatar's rich heritage through authentic cuisine and cultural activities. A diverse selection of eateries, including Muhamed Sultan, Samoosa Khaima, Rex, Popeye, Al Zarka, and many more, promises a feast of nostalgic flavors.
New activities bring the past to life, with Dakkan paying tribute to Qatar’s old souks through traditional foods and sweets, while the Folk Games Kiosk hosts lively competitions inspired by local traditions. Interactive experiences such as the Kahoot Competition, a Treasure Hunt and the Local Flavor Challenge add an exciting twist, immersing visitors in heritage-themed games and culinary contests.
Iftar Cannon
Experience the historic Ramadan cannon fire at sunset, marking the end of the fast each day. This cherished ritual unites the community in a moment of reflection and celebration, making it a must-see event during the holy month.
Musaher Al Mina
The Musaheratis, or "Ramadan drummers," will roam the Old Port performing Ramadan chants each evening. These drummers embrace the essence of the holy month by replicating the traditional Suhoor call, whereby a "musaherati" would wake up the neighborhood before sunrise so that people could eat before beginning their fast.
Garangao Night
On March 14, children and families can revel in the joy of Garangao, a festive night filled with gifts, music and cultural performances that celebrate this cherished Gulf tradition, observed halfway through Ramadan, where children dress in colorful attire, sing traditional songs, and collect sweets and nuts as a reward for their fasting.
Date: March 1 - End of Ramadan 2025
Location: Old Doha Port
Find more information here.
Word on the street: Sports for All Ladies
A general view of Education City Stadium on Nov. 28, 2022 in Al Rayyan, Qatar. (Claudio Villa/Getty Images)
The Qatar Sports for All Federation presents the Sports for All Ladies Ramadan Series 2025, a four-race event designed exclusively for women. Taking place every Saturday from March 1 to March 22, this empowering fitness challenge welcomes runners of all levels in a supportive and inspiring environment.
Set inside the iconic World Cup venue, Education City Stadium, the event offers diverse race formats, ranging from 30-minute endurance challenges to 5-minute sprints for young children. With a precisely measured course and a 200 participant limit per race, each event ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.
More than just a competition, this ladies-only series is a celebration of health, community and the joy of movement during Ramadan.
Dates: March 1, March 8, March 15 and March 22
Location: Education City Stadium
Find more information here.
Doha diary
A man walks past decorations on the second day of Islam's holy fasting month of Ramadan at Souq Waqif Traditional Market in Doha on March 12, 2024. (KARIM JAAFAR/AFP via Getty Images)
The Pearl Ramadan Bazaar
The Pearl Ramadan Bazaar returns for its third season, offering a delightful mix of Ramadan essentials, handcrafted items and festive treats. Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of The Pearl Island, where tradition and creativity come together in a truly special shopping experience.
Date: March 1 - April 5
Location: 2-5 La Croisette, Porto Arabia
More details here.
Mahaseel Festival
Experience the vibrant Mahaseel Festival, a celebration of Qatar’s finest local agricultural products and artisanal goods, at Katara’s Southern Area.
Date: Until April 3
Location: Katara Southern Area
More details here.
Third “Ekbes” Beach Volleyball Tournament 2025
Gear up for the third “Ekbes” Beach Volleyball Tournament at Old Doha Port. Witness high-energy matches, fierce competition and an electrifying beach atmosphere, making it a must-attend event for sports and seaside enthusiasts alike.
Date: March 6-14
Location: Old Doha Port
More details here.
Book of the week: “Calling Magic”
In “Calling Magic,” Qatari author Kummam Al-Maadeed crafts a spellbinding tale of fantasy, mystery and adventure. Tia, the most powerful witch of her time, seeks a quiet life away from the Court of Wizards, concealing her identity in the bustling city of Paiza. But as war looms and her fate entwines with King Rhein, she must decide whether to stay hidden or embrace her true power. With rich world-building and a captivating storyline, “Calling Magic” blends magic, intrigue and romance, drawing readers deep into the enchanting streets of Paiza.
View from Doha
A balloon vendor waits for customers in the Souq Waqif bazaar in Doha. (GABRIEL BOUYS/AFP via Getty Images)
By the numbers
- Qatar ranks first in the Arab world and sixth globally among the least stressed populations, according to CEOWORLD magazine. The index is based on four categories: health, financial, work and family-related stress.
- Qatar ranks as the third-most expensive country in the region for real estate, with the price per square meter in city centers reaching $4,943, according to cost of living database Numbeo.
