KUWAIT CITY, Aug 15: The 33rd Pearl Diving Festival, a commemoration trip, organized by the Marine Heritage Committee at the Marine Sports Club, will conclude today at 5:30 pm with the "Al-Qaffal" ceremony. The event is held under the patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad and involves 150 young participants, including captains, sailors, and divers. These participants used four diving ships donated by the late Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad. The public and heritage enthusiasts have been invited to witness the ceremony.

The "Al-Qaffal" ceremony, a traditional event marking the return of diving ships, will feature a large celebration broadcast live on Kuwait TV. Attendees will include the club's honorary president, Sheikh Mubarak Al-Abdullah, and the club's president, Major General Fahad Al-Fahad. The ceremony will commence with the arrival of all diving ships at the club's shore, where captains and sailors will disembark, displaying their equipment and oyster harvest. The "Falaq" process, where oysters are opened, will take place with the accompaniment of the club's marine arts band. The event will conclude with participants lining up in front of the honor platform to lower the Kuwaiti flag, symbolizing the end of the diving season.

Major General Fahad Al-Fahad emphasized that the purpose of the diving trip goes beyond collecting oysters and searching for pearls. It aims to preserve and promote Kuwait's heritage, strengthening the connection of the younger generation with the nation's history and the sacrifices made by their forefathers. He expressed pride in Amir's annual sponsorship of the event and praised the efforts of the diving youth, their families, and the Marine Heritage Committee for their dedication to preparing the youth to endure hardships and learn valuable life lessons.

"Al-Qaffal" is a term used in Kuwait and the Gulf region to describe the return of ships at the end of the diving season, traditionally marked by popular celebrations on the beach. The beginning of the diving season is referred to as "Al-Dasha," with different types of diving, including official diving ("Al-Oud") and other forms.

The Marine Club has invited the families of the divers to welcome them at the club’s coast, encouraging them to wear traditional attire to enhance the cultural experience. The event will also feature an exhibition of Gulf maritime heritage, a display of collectibles and handicrafts by the Expo 965 team, and performances by the Marine Arts Band, consisting of young divers.

The Marine Club extended its gratitude to the sponsors and supporters of the diving trip, including Gulf Bank as the main sponsor, Al-Rawdatain Water Bottling Company, Kuwait Flour Mills and Bakeries Company, Exhibition Grounds Company, and the Expo 965 team for heritage exhibitions and handicrafts.