The majlis is one of the most important spaces in Qatari homes and a central feature of daily life. A symbol of Arabic hospitality, majlis has been included in UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
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The majlis dates back to Bedouin times
The majlis is a special sitting room for receiving guests, similar to a parlour or salon in Western Europe. Dating back to the days when Bedouins roamed the desert, the majlis used to be a goat hair tent where men congregated to discuss religious, political and trade matters. It’s a space where younger family members learnt more about etiquette, traditions and culture through storytelling, songs and conversations.
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Meaning of the word
Majlis is an Arabic term meaning ‘a place of sitting’.
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Traditionally male-only spaces
Women have private majlis inside the home.
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Dates & Arabic coffee
Guests in the majlis are served dates and coffee from a dallah pot.
Decorated for comfort and connection
Located near the entrance, the majlis was traditionally the only room with windows opening onto the street. It offers low seating where guests can relax with folded legs, featuring carpets on the floor and cushions against the wall. In wealthy homes, the windows had coloured glass and carved gypsum panels with symmetrical geometric designs. In simpler homes, the majlis was decorated with recessed niches (roshaneh).
Aromas and flavours of the majlis
Relaxing in a majlis is a warm and memorable experience with unique smells and tastes. You’ll find an incense burner spreading pleasant aromas of oud, sandalwood and safran. Arabic coffee is synonymous with the majlis and is poured from a dallah into tiny cups, along with Arabic desserts and dates.
International recognition of the majlis’s value
On 4 December 2015, UAE, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia jointly inscribed the ‘majlis’ on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. The inscription gives specific value to the majlis as a living tradition, as well as a social and cultural function. It secures its preservation and continuity as the seat of family, social and political gatherings throughout history.
Where to experience a majlis in Qatar
Find the traditional majlis at markets like Souq Waqif. Murex Qatar Tours offers a tour to an authentic majlis where you will experience the autehtic Qatari hospitality. Alternatively, Embrace Doha hosts regular workshops and experiences at the Cultural House, Souq Al Wakrah.
Follow the trail of tradition
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Delicious dates
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