Summary
I found the Qatar Museum of Islamic Art in Doha to be pretty interesting. Despite the name, it’s not a religious institution, and you don’t have to be a Muslim to enjoy it.
This museum is full of great artifacts from three different continents over a period of 1,400 years. Some countries represented include Egypt, India, Iran, Iraq, Spain, and Turkey.
This travel guide will explain how to get there and everything you need to know before your visit!
Visiting The Museum Of Islamic Art
I spent a few days in Qatar last September and had the opportunity to take a half-day city tour in Doha, which included this museum as one of the stops.
Although I only spent about 30 minutes here due to time constraints, I could have easily devoted more time to exploring.
The building’s architecture stands out, mimicking geometric patterns and drawing influences from ancient Islamic architecture. It was designed by the acclaimed Chinese-American architect I. M. Pei.
The museum features five floors filled with artifacts, including pots, jewels, swords, daggers, and even a complete suit of armor.
For me, the highlight of the collection was one of the daggers, which boasted an intricate design and was adorned with gems.
The museum’s presentation and facilities are impressive, though I do wish the lighting could be improved, as it can be quite dim for photography.
After touring the museum, guests can find a library, gift shop, and restaurant on the first floor.
The café food tends to be pricey (approximately $10 USD for a small cup of refrigerated fruit), which seems to be a common trend in Qatar.
Hours & Fees
- Hours: 9 AM – 7 PM
- Hours (Friday): 1:30 PM – 7 PM
- Entrance Fee: Free
How To Get To The Museum
The museum is conveniently located in the city center of Doha.
I arrived via a city tour, but visitors can also use rideshare options like Uber or Careem. There is a dedicated parking lot with a taxi rank available.
