The Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture came to a grand conclusion on Tuesday as Princess Lalla Hasnaa of Morocco and Sheikha Sara Bint Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar presided over the much-anticipated “Tbourida Show” at Doha’s Al Shaqab Equestrian Centre.
The event showcased Tbourida, a UNESCO-recognized Moroccan equestrian tradition that has been part of the world’s intangible cultural heritage since 2021. Five regional teams, or “Sorbas,” from Morocco’s Marrakech-Safi, Oriental, Guelmim Oued Noun, Casablanca-Settat, and Beni Mellal-Khenifra regions participated in the performance.
The ceremony began with a video presentation highlighting the key moments from the year-long cultural exchange between Morocco and Qatar. This was followed by the “El Hadda” salute, a traditional greeting, and a stunning display of Tbourida, which combined speed, precision, and skill. The riders, dressed in traditional attire, galloped across sandy fields on decorated horses, executing synchronized maneuvers that reflected Morocco’s deep equestrian heritage.
Throughout the year, the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture featured numerous cultural and artistic events, including exhibitions such as “Splendors of the Atlas” and “Ektashif: Maroc,” as well as the unveiling of the “Dar Al Maghreb” pavilion in Qatar, inspired by Ksar Aït Benhaddou. Morocco hosted the Longines Global Champions Tour and Fashion Trust Arabia, strengthening ties between the two nations.
Princess Lalla Hasnaa was welcomed by Issa Bin Mohammed Al-Mohannadi, Chairman of the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club, upon her arrival. The event was attended by dignitaries and officials from both countries, including representatives from tourism, culture, and diplomacy, as well as directors of national museums and cultural institutions.
The Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture concluded with a powerful message of cultural exchange, celebrating shared heritage and strengthening the bonds of mutual respect and collaboration between the two nations.