Dec 18, 2018
Qatar National Day 2018
This Doodle’s Key Themes
A desert peninsula on the west coast of the Persian Gulf, Qatar is an independent constitutional emirate. Today the Qatari people celebrate their national day, as Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani, the second sheikh of the Al Thani dynasty, ascended to the throne exactly 140 years ago. Remembered as the founder of Qatar, he organized and centralized the land, setting it on a path to becoming one of the most diverse and prosperous nations in the region. His successor, Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani (1972–95), negotiated Qatar’s independence from Great Britain in 1971, becoming the first emir.
Elaborate celebrations are planned to mark this year’s National Day, with an emphasis on the principles and values of Qatari society. The official theme for this year’s celebration, “as long as it was proven by our deeds,” was inspired by a poem written by Qatar’s founder. In the capital city of Doha, parades and fireworks will take place, while in the Katara Cultural Village, centuries-old traditions of weaving, falconry, and pearl-diving come to life.
Happy National Day, Qatar!
Where this Doodle appeared
Discover more Doodles by color
Did you know?
The very first Doodle launched as an “out of office” message of sorts when company founders Larry and Sergey went on vacation.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first Doodle launched in 1998, before Google was officially incorporated.
Learn MoreDid you know?
The first same day Doodle was created in 2009 when water was discovered on the moon.
Learn MoreDid you know?
Doodle for Google student contest winners have gone on to become professional artists
Learn MoreDid you know?
The time it takes from sketch to launch for a Doodle varies widely: some have taken years and others just a few hours!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Hundreds of Doodles launch around the world every year. Often, several different ones are live in different places at the same time!
Learn MoreDid you know?
Our most frequently recurring Doodle character is Momo the Cat - named after a real-life team pet!
Learn More