NATIONAL MUSEUM OF QATAR
–
HEARTBEAT OF OUR HERITAGE
The National Museum of Qatar gives voice to the unique story of Qatar and its people; from earliest times to the present day and onwards towards the future.
Designed to be both immersive and experiential, the exhibits - spread over eleven galleries and across 1.5km of walkways - offer a rich exploration through its three main “chapters”. These are ‘Beginnings’, ‘Life in Qatar’ and ‘The Modern History of Qatar’.
These diverse themes and compelling multisensory storytelling techniques ensure an exciting mix of environments for visitors to explore.
THE PEOPLE’S MUSEUM
Designed by French architect, Jean Nouvel, the museum makes a dramatic addition to the Doha landscape; with its curved disks, intersections, and cantilevered angles — all inspired by the local desert rose. This unique building embraces the newly restored Palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al-Thani, which itself represents the heart of Qatari national identity.
The museum provides visitors with a wide range of ways to participate, to learn or to relax. A 220-seat auditorium and rolling programme of events ensure each visit offers a new perspective. For students and researchers, a dedicated library provides new study and research opportunities. For those looking to relax and take time out, there are venues to eat, including a stunning rooftop restaurant, and a newly landscaped park that offers family-friendly interactive learning environments and celebrates Qatar’s indigenous plants.
ICONS OF THE SEA
Qatar has a long maritime tradition. In keeping with this history, the museum celebrates by preserving and better understanding the hand-built wooden dhows that were once Doha’s lifeblood. The boats enabled fishing, trading and notably the collection of precious pearls, traces of which are showcased at the museum. Visitors can explore an extensive collection of pearls, including 1.5 million Gulf pearls hand-embroidered on the renowned Pearl Carpet of Baroda.
