Museum of Islamic Art
متحف الفن الإسلامي
Masterpiece by I. M. Pei showcasing 14 centuries of Islamic art on the Corniche.
The Museum of Islamic Art in Doha is one of Qatar’s most iconic landmarks and a major cultural institution in the region. Its creation marked a key step in transforming Doha into an international capital of art and learning. Standing on an artificial island, the museum’s striking geometric design reflects the timeless spirit of Islamic architecture.
The project blends tradition and innovation: ancient artistic forms are presented within a contemporary space, and the collection spans over fourteen centuries of Islamic civilization. It showcases Islamic art as a universal cultural legacy that connects three continents and diverse peoples.
Today, the Museum of Islamic Art not only preserves a world-class collection but also serves as a center for education, exhibitions, and research, shaping the understanding of Islam’s role in global culture.
How to Get There
On foot from Doha center ~15-22 min.
From DOH airport (Doha) by taxi/transfer ~10 min.
Description
What it is
The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) in Doha is Qatar’s premier museum, located on an artificial island along the Corniche. Designed by architect I. M. Pei, it stands as a landmark of modern Doha and the first institution in the region dedicated to 14 centuries of Islamic art.
Key features
- Opened on 22 November 2008, covering 45,000 m².
- Architect – I. M. Pei, designer of the Louvre Pyramid.
- The collection spans the 7th–20th centuries, with works from Spain, Egypt, Iran, Turkey, India, and Central Asia.
- In 2022, the museum underwent renovation and became the first carbon-neutral museum in the Middle East.
- The complex includes MIA Park, IDAM restaurant by Alain Ducasse, and 7, a steel sculpture by Richard Serra.
What to see
- Main galleries – over 1,100 artifacts of Islamic art arranged by region and period.
- MIA Park – a waterfront park with cafés, playgrounds, and a regular open-air bazaar.
- Permanent and temporary exhibitions – manuscripts, ceramics, jewelry, arms, and textiles.
- IDAM restaurant – French-Mediterranean cuisine overlooking Doha Bay.
- Library and education centers – public programs and art workshops.
History
Commissioned by the Emir of Qatar, the museum opened to the public in December 2008. Before designing it, I. M. Pei spent six months studying Islamic architecture from Cairo to Samarkand, seeking to reinterpret its spirit in modern form.
Built of creamy limestone and illuminated by natural light, the museum faces the Gulf with panoramic glass façades. Interiors were designed by Wilmotte & Associates.
In 2021–2022, the museum underwent renovation ahead of the FIFA World Cup, adding new galleries, digital features, and accessibility upgrades. Today, the MIA serves as a key cultural landmark and venue for major international exhibitions.
Practical information
Location: eastern Corniche, on an island overlooking Doha Bay.
Getting there: by car or taxi, or a 10-minute walk from National Museum metro station.
Access: open daily; park free, museum ticketed.
Visiting hours: 9 am–7 pm (Fridays 1:30 pm–7 pm).
Visit duration: 1.5–3 hours.
Best time: October–April, especially evenings for waterfront walks.
Special notes: fully accessible; online 3-D virtual tour available.
