Officials viewing the "Moments" exhibition at the Gate Mall following the inauguration yesterday.
Nearly 80 rare photos of H H Grandfather Emir Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani are on display at “Moments” exhibition, dedicated to the memory of the late Qatari leader, which opened at The Gate Mall’s Maysaloun Hall on Sunday.
The black-and-white images captured on lens by Salam International’s Founder Abdul Salam Mohammed Abu Issa offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of the great leader and traces some important moments in the country’s history.
In some of the photos, H H Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani is seen along with GCC leaders and other prominent world personalities during his time, while other images depict him during state visits, official functions and social events.
Among the most striking images is a series of portrait photos of the Grandfather Emir taken during various stages of his life.
Breathtaking aerial shots of old Doha and vintage photos of Salam Studio and Stores are also featured at the exhibition.
Salam International Investment Ltd (SIIL) launched the unique archival photography exhibition as a tribute to the Grandfather Emir in recognition of his contribution to Qatar’s progress.
Kicking off off SIIL’s celebrations of Qatar National Day, the exhibition drawn from the private collection of the Abu Issa family, is a must see for nationals, expatriates, students and photography enthusiasts.
“SIIL is a local conglomerate, born and bred on this nation’s soil. So every year, the commemoration of Qatar’s National day is something we participate in with a deep sense of pride and joy. This year, we wanted to elevate the meaning of our celebrations and pay tribute to the memory of His Highness Skeikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani. We wanted to honour him for laying the groundwork for the path that Qatar has taken in its journey from past to present,” said Issa Abdul Salam Abu Issa, Chairman and CEO of Salam International, at the launch event attended by distinguished guests and members of the media.
He added: “Our photography archives contain many images of the Grandfather Emir on occasions of national significance, captured by the hand of Salam International’s Founder, my father Mr AbdulSalam Mohammed Abu Issa himself. We believe these images and the moments they have chronicled deserve to be seen and celebrated. That is why we are bringing out this collection in honour of His Highness”
Credited with the distinction of bringing the first ever camera to Qatar and pioneering its photography industry, SIIL’s founder the late Abdul Salam Mohammed Abu Issa covered the Grandfather Emir on personal, political and ceremonial occasions. “Moments” is open to the public until January 7 from 10am to 10pm.
