The second coordination meeting to prepare the final draft of the file to inscribe “Sanbuk” (traditional wooden dhow) on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List was held in Doha on February 4, 2025, in collaboration with the Qatar National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science and the Ministry of Culture.

The preparation of “Sanbuk” Nomination File is led by the State of Qatar, with the participation of 14 Arab countries.

Addressing the opening session of the meeting, Dr. Humaid Al-Nofali, Director of Culture at ALECSO, conveyed the greetings of Dr. Mohamed Ould Amar, Director-General of ALECSO, and highlighted the special interest that he attaches to ensuring the success of this file and all joint Arab files, as well as to supporting Arab States’ efforts in submitting their files for inscription on UNESCO’s heritage lists.

Mr. Ali Al-Ma'arifi, Secretary-General of the Qatar National Commission for Education, Culture, and Science, expressed his thanks to ALECSO for its successful efforts in coordinating joint Arab files submitted for inscription. 

Sheikha Najla Al-Thani, Director of Heritage and Identity at the Ministry of Culture, welcomed the ALECSO delegation and the participating experts from Arab countries, wishing them success in finalizing the file to ensure its submission in a timely manner.