Photo exhibition in memory of Grandfather Emir opens

Salam International Investment Limited (SIIL) has opened a unique archival photography exhibition, ‘Moments’ in memory of HH the Grandfather Emir Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad al-Thani, paying tribute to and recognising his contribution to Qatar’s progress. Launched at The Gate Mall’s Maysaloun Hall, the exhibition draws from the private collection of the Abu Issa family. The collection on display offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s historic journey, with a prime focus on HH the Grandfather Emir. ‘Moments’ is open to the public until January 7, 2017, from 10am to 10pm.The opening of the exhibition kicked off SIIL’s celebrations of Qatar National Day. The inauguration took place in the presence of SIIL chairman and CEO Issa AbdulSalam Abu Issa and other distinguished guests. Speaking on the occasion, Abu Issa stated that SIIL is ‘a local conglomerate, born and bred on this nation’s soil.’“So every year, the commemoration of Qatar National Day is something we participate in with a deep sense of pride and joy. This year, we wanted to elevate the meaning of our celebrations and pay tribute to the memory of HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad al-Thani. We wanted to honour him for laying the groundwork for the path that Qatar has taken in its journey from past to present. Our photography archives contain many images of HH the Grandfather Emir at occasions of national significance, captured by the hand of Salam International’s founder, my father AbdulSalam Mohamed Abu Issa himself. We believe these images and the moments they have chronicled deserve to be seen and celebrated. That is why we are bringing out this collection in honour of His Highness”. Credited with the distinction of bringing the first ever camera to Qatar and pioneering its photography industry, SIIL’s founder the late AbdulSalam Mohamed Abu Issa covered HH Sheikh Khalifa at personal, political and ceremonial occasions. “From presenting extraordinary moments in Qatar’s history, featuring the country’s interactions with Arab leaders, the way of life of its people and chronicling the growth of spaces and places, the ‘Moments’ exhibition is poised to add a rich dimension of reminiscence to this year’s National Day celebrations,” SIIL added in a statement.