Pictures & Article by Ima Kabiri for Afghan Press

Every December 18th, Qatar celebrates the National Day in commemoration of the historic day in 1878 when Shaikh Jassim, the founder of the State of Qatar, succeeded his father, Shaikh Muhammad Bin Thani, as the ruler and led the country toward unity.

This national occasion emphasizes the identity and history, embodies the ideals and visionary aspirations that this country was founded on, and pays homage to the great men and women who participated in building Qatar’s nation. December 18th is the day everyone remembers how national unity was achieved and how became a distinct and respected nation out of a society torn apart by conflicting tribal loyalties, devoid of security and order, and overrun by invaders.

Just few days ago – December 2008, Qatar celebrated National day in style! It was a day to cherish and a night to remember as Qatar’s history, achievements and visions were presented in all its glory to an admiring public and curious onlookers.

Thousands gathered at the Corniche to witness the shows—from the parade in the morning, to the light and water show in the afternoon and early evening, to the spectacular display of fireworks at 10pm. Under the motto Day of Unity, Loyalty and Pride, Qatar celebrated its National Day to commemorate Sheikh Jassim bin Mohammad bin Thani’s victory against the Ottomans and later achieved statehood for Qatar. December 18, 1978, marked a turning point in the history of modern Qatar. On that day, Sheikh Jassim was proclaimed Emir and is remembered in the history of the Persian Gulf as the tribal ruler who stood against the Ottomans at the battle in Wajba in March 1893. He died on July 17, 1913. An Army Show was presented on the 18th morning along the Corniche. The military parade, which was included the Armed Forces, the Interior Ministry and the Internal Security Forces “Lekhwiya,” the Emiri guard, all led by soldiers on horseback and camels wearing traditional uniforms, lined the streets along the Corniche at 9:30am. Cheers and applause greeted the participants of the parade. A one-and-a-half hour air show followed, where members of the Air Force participated. Not to be outdone, the Navy joined in the revelries using old sailing vessels and speed boats with the supply boat Mikhbat. Viewers witnessed the slide shows about Qatar’s history, heritage, achievements, values and visionary aspirations on the giant screens positioned on high-rise buildings and in Doha Bay.