Doha, Qatar: Old Doha Port is proud to announce the launch of its inaugural Fishing Exhibition, taking place from April 9 to 12, 2025, at Mina Park. This vibrant new addition to the Port’s cultural calendar pays homage to Qatar’s deep-rooted fishing traditions while showcasing the latest innovations in the regional fishing industry. A celebration of community, craft, and cultural identity, the exhibition is envisioned to become an annual fixture, providing essential fishing equipment for sea-goers and marking the start of the fishing season in the region.
Fishing has long been a way of life in Qatar, forming the backbone of coastal communities for generations. Before the discovery of oil, the sea was the country’s primary source of livelihood, providing sustenance, trade, and cultural meaning. Traditional wooden dhows would set sail from Qatar’s ports like Al Wakrah, Al Khor, and the very harbor now known as Old Doha Port. Fishing and pearling were often family endeavors, with knowledge passed down through generations in the form of net-weaving, boat-making, and stories of the sea.
The Fishing Exhibition offers a modern tribute to that past, blending tradition and innovation in one immersive, community-first experience. Set in Mina Park, south of Mina District, a waterfront green space within the Port known for its scenic charm and active programming, the event is free of charge and welcomes all ages to explore the culture and craft of fishing across four dynamic days. The activities will continue daily in the evening during the exhibition from 4 to 9 pm.
Visitors will experience a thoughtfully curated lineup of 30 exhibition stands, featuring a diverse selection of local and regional fishing equipment, gear brands, and industry retailers. Exhibitors include Qatar Fish, Alfardan Marine Services, Ghys Marine, Al Lingawi Trading, Doha Craft Marine, Blue Whale Marine, Beluga Marine, and other leading brands in the maritime and fishing sector. These stands will present everything from traditional tools to cutting-edge technology in marine equipment, illustrating how far the fishing sector has evolved while still honoring its origins.
The exhibition will include a wide variety of accompanying events and live performances, such as demonstrations by traditional craftsmen, showcasing skills such as net making and rope weaving associated with maritime life. A traditional folk maritime band will perform throughout the exhibition, bringing the rhythm of Qatar’s coastal heritage to life. The event will also feature hands-on activations and storytelling spaces that allow visitors, especially children, to learn about the country’s seafaring past in fun, engaging ways.
The exhibition offers a variety of food and beverage offerings that will add a celebratory touch, highlighting local dishes and providing a unique experience for guests.
As part of the exhibition, the Fishing Competition will be a key highlight and event, taking place on April 11 and 12, building on the success of last year’s competition. The competition invites professionals and hobbyists alike to cast their lines into the surrounding waters, with all participants departing directly from various docks and ports across the country. The participants will meet on the final day of the exhibition to compete. This competition embodies ancient fishing traditions with a unique modern touch, bringing together the community for a challenge and uniting them in sportsmanship.
Engineer Mohammed Abdullah Al Mulla, CEO of Old Doha Port, commented: “The Fishing Exhibition enhances Old Doha Port as a leading maritime destination that celebrates its heritage. It also supports Old Doha Port’s strategy to activate marine tourism and encourage watersport activities, which are a key part of the activities available in the country. This event is more than a showcase; it’s a celebration of community, craftsmanship, and culture, kicking off the start of the fishing season in the region. We are proud to offer it as a platform for both tradition and innovation to thrive. It aligns with our mission to connect Qatar’s past to its future through experiences that are meaningful, inclusive, and dynamic. Additionally, it supports local businesses and entrepreneurs by providing a platform to exchange experiences and showcase the latest innovations and products to consumers and fishing enthusiasts.”
As a key contributor to Qatar’s National Vision 2030, Old Doha Port continues to foster community development, sustainable tourism, and cultural celebration through world-class programming. The Fishing Exhibition is the latest expression of that mission, honoring the sea not just as a natural resource, but as a timeless thread connecting generations of Qatari people.
Old Doha Port warmly invites fishing professionals, families, sea lovers, and curious explorers to join in this historic event and experience the harbor’s transformation into a vibrant space where heritage lives, the community gathers, and the future sets sail.
