Qatari farms will feature an array of fresh produce and dairy products at the second edition of Mahaseel Festival, scheduled from December 23 to 27 at the southern area of Katara – the Cultural Village.

The festival, organised by Katara in association with the Agricultural Department at the Ministry of Municipality and Environment, aims to support and promote Qatar’s agricultural and livestock sector.
“Local farmers want to produce more for the people of Qatar and high quality vegetables and fruits, as well as milk and other dairy products, will be offered throughout the festival,” Katara general manager Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim al-Sulaiti told reporters at a press conference on Wednesday.   
He stressed that the country is exerting efforts to become self-sufficient amid the ongoing unjust blockade, which serves as a golden opportunity for Qatar’s agriculture industry to unlock its full potential.
Dr al-Sulaiti said 22 stalls will offer various kinds of fresh vegetables and fruits while six others are dedicated for livestock (dairy products), besides handicraft booths at the festival. From January onwards, it will take place every weekend, from Thursday to Saturday, until the end of March next year.
In line with Katara’s aim to promote solidarity with a number of local institutions and charities, the festival also provides a platform for new small, medium and large-scale entreprises to promote and market their products.
Katara is launching Mahaseel’s second edition this month following the positive response the first edition received from the public early this year.
Dr al-Sulaiti pointed out that the event achieved national recognition for offering “excellent quality farm produce and livestock,” and featuring various activities for families and children. It also showcased organic and hydroponically-grown vegetables and fruits.
He expressed confidence that such efforts to support national products, particularly in agriculture, will help Qatar achieve sustainability and self-sufficiency in food production and distribution.
“The crops festival is a new venture in the agricultural economy of Qatar and it offers a unique platform, which creates awareness amongst residents about the country’s farms and the competitive prices and quality of homegrown produce,” Dr al-Sulaiti added.
“We make every effort to increase public participation and awareness of Qatar’s agricultural heritage. Such festivals provide visitors with helpful information on the vast array of food products on offer and their health benefits,” Katara’s chief said.
The festival will also hold competitions, exhibitions and interactive activities to promote public awareness and interest in Qatari food produce.
The previous edition witnessed students from 10 Qatari schools taking part in a vegetable arrangement contest while the ‘Palms (Nakheel) exhibition’ attracted a large number of visitors.
Mahaseel festival organising committee head Salman al-Nuami noted that Mahaseel will offer visitors the best quality of produce including fruits, vegetables, honey, poultry, milk and cheese, among others.