Doha:Qatar is actively promoting Arabic calligraphy by integrating it into cultural programs, educational initiatives, and public architecture. The country is enhancing the visibility and appreciation of this traditional art form through various methods, including international competitions and contemporary design adaptations.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the Al Raqeem Qatar International Arabic Calligraphy Competition is one of the notable initiatives. Organized by the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs in collaboration with the Museum of Islamic Art, the competition offers prizes amounting to over QAR 1 million.
Arabic calligraphy is prominently featured in public art installations and architectural projects around Qatar, such as the Education City Mosque, where traditional scripts are part of the building's design. Additionally, schools, universities, and specialized art centers offer various training programs, workshops, and competitions to nurture calligraphy skills among younger generations, encouraging them to explore both traditional and modern techniques.
Moreover, Qatar's involvement in the multinational nomination process helped Arabic calligraphy secure a place on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021.