Doha: Qatar Museums (QM), represented by the Department of Archaeology, is making its debut at the 10th edition of the Katara International Hunting and Falconry Exhibition, also known as "S'hail 2026." This participation highlights the collaborative efforts of institutions and individuals in Qatar to protect cultural heritage and preserve the historical landmarks that define the Qatari desert. According to Qatar News Agency, the Department of Archaeology at Qatar Museums has established a significant presence at "S'hail 2026" by showcasing its archaeological research projects. This initiative aims to raise public awareness about the critical importance of protecting and preserving cultural heritage. QM's Director of Archaeology, Faisal Abdulla Al Naimi, emphasized that participating in the exhibition is a strategic move to engage with the public, particularly those who frequent the desert areas outside Doha, to foster the preservation of antiquities. Al Naimi explained that archaeological sites are more tha n relics of the past; they are vital components of national identity and shared memory. Preserving these sites is crucial for ensuring they are passed down to future generations. The interactive participation in "S'hail" includes a children's coloring corner named "I Protect My Country's Antiquities" and a mural titled "I Am a Falconer and I Protect My Antiquities," encouraging visitor engagement. He highlighted that unintentional vandalism is often caused by camping activities, lighting fires near historical monuments, or defacing historical walls and markers with graffiti. Al Naimi underscored the role of all community members, both citizens and residents, as partners in heritage protection. Inspectors, referred to as "heritage protectors," provide guidance and information at the department's pavilion, focusing on educating the younger generation as future guardians of antiquities. Al Naimi commended the increasing community awareness about heritage preservation, noting that individuals frequently report artifact discoveries to the Department of Archaeology and caution others against unintentional vandalism. He advised campers to choose flat, open terrains for camping and avoid destructive behaviors such as cutting fences, shooting at signs, or defacing walls. Qatar Museums has outlined several guidelines to safeguard Qatar's heritage, including sticking to designated paths to prevent damage to heritage sites. Deviating from these paths can confuse other visitors and lead them astray. Climbing archaeological structures is discouraged, as many are fragile and susceptible to collapse, risking the loss of cultural and scientific value permanently. The "S'hail 2026" exhibition remains open to visitors until this coming Saturday.
