The headgear, which was invented in ancient times, was born out of the need for protection from weather factors.
However, its forms, names and types differed according to the environment and developed throughout history to move from the stage of protection to the purposes of adornment, until it became for every people a cultural symbol and an announcement of identity, customs and traditions.


Children at the stadium on Friday, sporting the traditional 'gahfiya'.  PICTURE: Naushad Thekkayil


Many factors were behind the diversity and differences in the forms of head coverings, including climate, raw materials in the industry, and the development of man in his culture and view of things, which was demonstrated by the exhibition of headgear within the events and activities accompanying the inauguration of Al Thumama Stadium, the 2022 FIFA World Cup venue.
The exhibition, which witnessed a large turnout of the fans who attended the Al Sadd and Al Rayyan match in the final of HH the Amir Cup, shed light on the history of head coverings in different cultures from around the world, which has become a symbol of expression of belonging for the majority of the peoples of the world.
Wearing his 'gahfiya', a young Qatari man, Mohamed al-Yafei, looked at the different head coverings in the exhibition outside Al Thumama Stadium, inspired by 'gahfiya', a traditional head hat worn by boys and men across the Arab and Islamic world.
Al-Yafei said that he had never thought about the existence of different head coverings, that every country has a different covering that expresses its identity, and that it is possible to know a person's affiliation and roots through the head covering he wears.
He believed that the design of Al Thumama Stadium in the shape of 'gahfiya' is a victory for Qatari customs and traditions and that it will enhance the identity of future generations and belonging to the homeland.
Also, Saleh al-Athba praised the festive atmosphere, events and activities, including the headgear exhibition, which accompanies the inauguration ceremony of Al Thumama Stadium, one of the stadiums that will host the World Cup.
Al-Athba said that the stadium is an architectural masterpiece, and the idea of designing it in the shape of 'gahfiya' is unique and unprecedented, especially as it is an expression of the identity of the people of the region and the Arabs in general, not just Qatar.
He explained that all of Qatar's stadiums reflect Qatar's heritage, not just Al Thumama, as each stadium tells a different story of Qatar's ancient heritage, customs and traditions that have been passed down for generations.
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