Qatar Museums to host 'Coastal, Maritime Cultural Heritage in Qatar' conference

Qatar Museums, in partnership with UNESCO's Regional Office for the Gulf States and Yemen, will host a conference focused on the coastal and maritime cultural heritage of Qatar on Thursday. This event, held at the National Museum of Qatar's Auditorium, coincides with the International Day for Underwater Cultural Heritage, celebrated on August 21st each year. The day serves to highlight the importance of underwater heritage as a crucial part of our collective cultural memory.

The conference aims to raise awareness of Qatar's underwater cultural heritage and its integral role in human history. It will feature presentations from archaeologists and heritage experts, delving into the country's coastal landscapes, maritime traditions, and historic communities. The discussions will cover various aspects of underwater heritage, including research, documentation, conservation, and sustainable management.

Faisal Al Naimi, Director of Archaeology at Qatar Museums, emphasized the significance of Qatar's coastal and maritime heritage as a vital component of the nation's history and identity. He stated, "Through research, conservation, and public engagement, we can ensure that this unique legacy is understood, protected, and passed on to future generations. Our collaboration with UNESCO on this conference reflects our commitment to raising awareness of underwater cultural heritage and strengthening efforts to safeguard it."

The conference will also delve into sustainable methodologies for managing underwater cultural heritage, striking a balance between protection, conservation, scientific research, and public engagement. It underscores the shared dedication of Qatar Museums and UNESCO Regional Office for the Gulf States and Yemen to the 2001 Convention, an international framework for protecting underwater cultural heritage, as well as to global cooperation and knowledge-sharing in archaeology and cultural heritage.

Through field excavations, scientific research, conservation efforts, and public programs, Qatar Museums' Archaeology Department is continuously expanding its understanding of the country's past while preserving and sharing its rich cultural heritage. The public is invited to attend the conference, learn about Qatar's maritime history, and interact with the dedicated professionals spearheading this important work.