The dhows moored in the port of Al Wakrah remind Qataris of their country’s historical reliance on the sea. For centuries, many families relied on the sale of pearls from the sea as their only income. Today, Qataris continue to be born and live near the coast and the sea remains an important part of daily life. The hardships endured by pearl fishermen in the past – sea trips that could last six months, lack of fresh water, predators, etc. – are far removed from the reality of Qataris today. If the “tawash”, the merchants who provided food for the divers, have reconverted to the luxury industry, the “jazwas”, the pearl fishermen, have disappeared. But every year, dhow and diving festivals and competitions continue to honour a tradition that is dear to the collective memory.