National Symbols of Qatar
List of Qatar's national symbols along with brief explanations:
National Flag:
The national flag of Qatar is maroon with a broad white serrated band (nine white points) on the hoist side. The maroon color represents the Kharijite Muslims who fought alongside Prophet Muhammad, and the nine-point serrated edge signifies Qatar as the ninth member of the "reconciled emirates" of the Persian Gulf at the conclusion of the Qatari-British treaty in 1916.
National Emblem:
The national emblem of Qatar consists of a yellow circle with two crossed white curved swords in the center, surrounded by a Qatar flag, with a traditional Qatari dhow (boat) sailing on blue and white waves above the swords.
National Anthem:
The national anthem of Qatar is "As Salam al Amiri" (Peace to the Amir), which celebrates the Emir and expresses loyalty and pride in the nation.
National Sport:
Football (Soccer) - Football is widely popular in Qatar and is considered the national sport. Qatar has invested heavily in football infrastructure and hosted the FIFA World Cup in 2022.
National Animal:
The Arabian Oryx (Oryx leucoryx) is considered the national animal of Qatar. It is a symbol of resilience and conservation efforts, as it was once extinct in the wild but has been successfully reintroduced.
National Bird:
The falcon is often considered a national symbol of Qatar. Falcons have historical and cultural significance in Qatar and the wider Arabian Peninsula, particularly in falconry, a traditional sport.
National Flower:
The Qatarese Tamarisk (Tamarix aphylla) is often considered the national flower of Qatar. It is a drought-resistant plant native to the region and symbolizes resilience and adaptation to the desert environment.
National Tree:
The Sidra Tree (Ziziphus spina-christi) is sometimes considered the national tree of Qatar. It is a drought-resistant tree commonly found in the desert and holds cultural significance in the region.
National Fruit:
The Date (Phoenix dactylifera) is commonly associated with Qatar and is widely cultivated in the country. Dates are a staple food and symbolize hospitality and prosperity.
National Calendar:
Qatar follows the Islamic Hijri calendar, which is a lunar calendar based on the cycles of the moon and is widely used for religious and cultural events.
National Motto:
Qatar's national motto is "الله الوطن الأمير" (God, the Country, the Emir) .