Doha – In a cultural exchange at Doha’s Al Shaqab Equestrian Centre, Princess Lalla Hasnaa and Sheikha Sara Bint Hamad Al-Thani presided over the “Tbourida Show” on Tuesday, marking the conclusion of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture.
The event showcased Tbourida, a UNESCO-recognized Moroccan equestrian tradition that has been part of the world’s intangible cultural heritage since 2021.
The performance featured five regional teams known as “Sorbas,” representing Marrakech-Safi, Oriental, Guelmim Oued Noun, Casablanca-Settat, and Beni Mellal-Khenifra provinces.
The ceremony began with a video presentation highlighting key moments from the year-long cultural exchange between Qatar and Morocco.
The Sorbas then performed the traditional “El Hadda” salute, followed by four series of Tbourida demonstrations, combining speed, endurance, and precision horsemanship.
Tbourida, which evolved from historical cavalry tactics, involves riders performing synchronized movements while wearing traditional attire.
The riders charge across sandy fields on decorated horses, demonstrating complex maneuvers that reflect Morocco’s deep-rooted equestrian heritage.
The Qatar-Morocco Cultural Year 2024 featured numerous notable events. Doha welcomed exhibitions of Amazigh royal jewelry, the creation of “Dar Al Maghreb” pavilion inspired by Ksar Aït Benhaddou architecture, and exhibitions such as “Splendors of the Atlas” and “Ektashif: Maroc.”
Morocco hosted the Longines Global Champion Tour, Fashion Trust Arabia, and the Qatar Africa Business Forum.
Upon arrival, Princess Lalla Hasnaa was received by Issa Bin Mohammed Al-Mohannadi, Chairman of Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club.
The event was attended by various Moroccan and Qatari officials, including representatives from tourism, culture, and diplomatic sectors, along with directors of national museums and cultural institutions from both countries.
The year-long celebration strengthened cultural ties between the two nations through various artistic and cultural exchanges, demonstrating their shared heritage and contemporary achievements.
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