By Raynald C Rivera
DOHA: Al Majlis and Arabic coffee — two vital elements of Arabic culture — have been officially inscribed in Unesco’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Qatar together with the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Oman nominated Al Majlis and Arabic coffee at Unesco’s 10th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in Windhoek, Namibia, last month where 23 elements were inscribed on the list.
“The inscription of these two elements represents a great symbol of true regional cooperation in safeguarding, promoting and, in particular, transmitting the intangible heritage of the region among the new generation and beyond,” said Anna Paolini, Director, Unesco Office in Doha and Unesco Representative to Gulf countries and Yemen.
Paolini was speaking at an event organised by the Ministry of Culture, Arts and Heritage to honour those who helped in the successful inscription of the two elements on the list.
She praised Qatari authorities’ efforts in safeguarding and promoting cultural heritage involving local community as the custodian of national heritage and urged them to continue protecting this vital intangible aspect of their heritage which plays a crucial role in preserving identities and promoting cultural diversity.
“Arabic coffee and majlis are deeply embedded in the culture of society of this region. Serving Arabic coffee is an important aspect of the hospitality of the Arab society and is considered a ceremonial act of generosity.
“Majlis is a communal space where community members gather to discuss local issues, make decisions, exchange views, receive guests, transfer knowledge to the new generation in the form of stories and poetry and solve issues in an amicable way.”
Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage H E Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kuwari honoured those who contributed to the inscription of the two elements on the list, in a ceremony at Sharq Village and Spa yesterday.
The Peninsula
