Qatar Airways recreated a traditional fereej, or Qatari neighbourhood, as it hosted a Garangao celebration for its employees and their families.
This was done to showcase the company’s pride in Qatar and experience and celebrate Qatari culture and customs, including time-honoured festivities, food and children’s activities, the Doha-based carrier said in a statement.
Some 1,500 employees and their family members immersed themselves in Qatari culture at the company’s traditional Ramadan celebration, the statement noted.
The fereej featured a number of traditional houses and tents with surprises inside. In line with the Garangao tradition, children were encouraged to knock on each door in the neighbourhood, and were greeted with treats, stories and educational facts about the residences.
Additionally, the celebration hosted a storyteller to regale guests with Qatari folktales, while traditional games were played to teach children about the country’s culture in years gone by.
Qatar Airways senior vice-president (human resources) Nabeela Fakhri said, “Qatar has a rich culture and so many beautiful traditions that we are proud to bring alive for our more than 40,000 employees. Garangao is a tradition that goes back centuries, and is something that many of us have fond childhood memories of.
“Recreating the experience for our staff and their families – many of whom are celebrating Ramadan and Garangao for the first time – enables us to ensure that the cultural nuances that make Qatar such a beautiful place remain relevant and celebrated for generations to come.”
During the Garangao celebration, traditional food and beverages were served to the Qatar Airways staff and guests.
Garangao is unique to the Gulf region and celebrated every year on the 14th day of Ramadan. The name comes from the Gulf word ‘Gara’, which describes the sound of things knocking together – such as the sound of children knocking on doors, or the nuts and sweets they gather in the bag they carry around their neck.
Children dress in traditional clothing and sing Garangao songs as they visit neighbourhood homes.