Museum of Islamic Art
A masterpiece of architecture housing 1400 years of Islamic art, offering stunning skyline views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Museum of Islamic Art
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A masterpiece of architecture housing 1400 years of Islamic art, offering stunning skyline views.
"Hands down, the best place to visit in Doha! The architecture and view here is breathtaking."
🧥 Bring a Sweater!
The museum's air conditioning can be quite strong. A light cardigan or sweater is a must for comfort.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Give yourself 3-4 hours to fully explore the vast collections and interactive exhibits.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Architectural Marvel
Entire Museum
Designed by I.M. Pei, this iconic museum is a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture.
Breathtaking Skyline Views
West Courtyard/Terrace
Enjoy panoramic views of the Doha skyline and West Bay from the museum's stunning waterfront location.
Treasures of Islamic Art
Galleries
Explore over 1,400 years of Islamic history through exquisite textiles, ceramics, jewelry, and manuscripts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Chill & Crowds
Plan Your Visit Duration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🧥 Bring a Sweater!
The museum's air conditioning can be quite strong. A light cardigan or sweater is a must for comfort.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Give yourself 3-4 hours to fully explore the vast collections and interactive exhibits.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the incredible skyline views from the terrace – perfect for photos! 
🎟️ Ticket Info
Residents get free entry; non-residents pay 50 QAR, students 25 QAR.
Tips
from all over the internet
🧥 Bring a Sweater!
The museum's air conditioning can be quite strong. A light cardigan or sweater is a must for comfort.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Give yourself 3-4 hours to fully explore the vast collections and interactive exhibits.
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the incredible skyline views from the terrace – perfect for photos!
🎟️ Ticket Info
Residents get free entry; non-residents pay 50 QAR, students 25 QAR.
☕ Cafe with a View
Enjoy a coffee or snack at the lobby cafe with a lovely view of the water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Museum of Islamic Art for its stunning architecture, breathtaking skyline views, and exceptionally curated collection of Islamic art spanning centuries. It's widely considered a must-visit in Doha, offering an enriching cultural experience with interactive elements suitable for families. Some guests noted the museum can be quite cold inside due to the air conditioning.
"Stunning place, full of treasure. Beautifully curated, a triumphant showcase of the extraordinary arts of the Islamic world which geographically have touched so many countries over the centuries. Really stunning galleries, full of information including videos and interactive displays.
Had to leave earlier than we would have liked due to freezing cold air conditioning! Bring a jumper!"
Alexandra Kemal
"Hands down, the best place to visit in Doha! The architecture and view here is breathtaking. All the galleries were very well maintained with adequate information. It’s a must visit if you’re planning sight seeing.
It’s a big museum, would take you 3-4 hours to thoroughly explore the entire place. It has interactive elements as well, so is very kid friendly! The outer view point is accessible with the entire skyline of the city, makes it a wonderful place to click pictures.
The staff is great too. Definitely would recommend 10/10."
Shariqua Afsheen
"The Museum of Islamic Art in Doha is a stunning architectural landmark with an impressive collection spanning centuries of Islamic art. Its galleries are well-curated, offering rich cultural insights, and the waterfront location provides breathtaking views. A must-visit for history and art enthusiasts."
Chao Wu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Museum of Islamic Art is located on the Corniche in Doha, Qatar. It's easily accessible by taxi or ride-sharing services. Many visitors also enjoy walking along the Corniche to reach the museum.
Yes, there is parking available at the museum, which is convenient if you are driving.
The museum is situated along the Corniche, making it a pleasant walk from other nearby attractions like the National Museum of Qatar.
For tourists, a taxi or ride-sharing app is generally the most straightforward way to reach the Museum of Islamic Art.
While Doha's public transport network is growing, taxis and ride-sharing are often more convenient for reaching specific attractions like the Museum of Islamic Art.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry is free for residents of Qatar. For non-residents, tickets are 50 QAR, and for students (non-residents), it's 25 QAR.
The museum is open Saturday to Tuesday from 9 AM to 7 PM, Thursday from 9 AM to 9 PM, and Friday from 1:30 PM to 7 PM. It is closed on Wednesdays.
While not always strictly necessary, booking in advance can save time, especially during peak seasons. Check the official museum website for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, residents get free admission, and students (non-residents) receive a discounted rate of 25 QAR.
Absolutely! The museum features interactive displays and a vast collection that can engage children, making it a family-friendly destination.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum houses an extensive collection spanning 1,400 years of Islamic art, including ceramics, textiles, jewelry, manuscripts, and architectural fragments from across three continents.
To thoroughly explore the entire museum, it's recommended to allocate 3-4 hours.
Yes, the museum is air-conditioned, which can make it quite cold inside. It's advisable to bring a sweater or light jacket.
The west courtyard and terrace offer stunning views of the Doha skyline, making them prime locations for photography.
Information on guided tours can usually be found on the museum's official website or by inquiring at the information desk upon arrival.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located in the lobby where you can enjoy refreshments with a view of the water.
Typically, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside museum galleries. It's best to consume them in designated areas or before entering.
The cafe offers light refreshments, coffee, and snacks, providing a pleasant spot to relax during your visit.
The Corniche area and nearby West Bay district offer a wide variety of restaurants catering to different tastes and budgets.
The cafe is more suited for light snacks and beverages rather than a full meal. For a more substantial dining experience, explore options outside the museum.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed in most areas, but flash photography and tripods may be restricted. Always check for signage or ask staff.
The exterior architecture, the waterfront terrace with the Doha skyline, and select gallery spaces offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Professional photography and videography usually require special permits. Contact the museum's administration in advance if you plan to do so.
Yes, flash photography is often prohibited to protect the artifacts. Some exhibits may also have specific no-photography rules.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial for interior shots, while a wide-angle lens is great for capturing the architecture and skyline views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring a sweater, as the air conditioning can be quite cool, which is important for keeping children comfortable. The stunning views from the terrace also offer a great opportunity for kids to enjoy the scenery and take memorable photos.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The real stars, however, are the panoramic views of the Doha skyline from the west courtyard and terrace. +1Experiment with different angles and times of day to capture the dynamic interplay of light and shadow on the city's skyscrapers. Inside, while flash is prohibited, the well-lit galleries offer chances to photograph the intricate details of the Islamic art collections.
🏛️ Art & History Buffs
The thoughtful curation and detailed explanations provide a rich educational experience, allowing visitors to delve into the nuances of different periods and styles. Beyond the artifacts, the architectural brilliance of the museum itself is a significant draw. The building's design is a testament to the enduring influence of Islamic aesthetics, making the visit a holistic appreciation of art, history, and architecture.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Vision of I.M. Pei
+1The building's unique form, with its five-story central structure and the striking silhouette against the Doha skyline, was a deliberate choice by Pei to create a landmark that is both modern and deeply rooted in Islamic heritage. The interior spaces are equally impressive, with soaring ceilings, intricate details, and a thoughtful layout that guides visitors through the collections.
Pei's vision was to create a museum that felt both monumental and intimate, a place where art and architecture coexist harmoniously. The way light plays through the building, especially during sunrise and sunset, adds another layer of beauty to the visitor experience, making the museum a destination in itself.
+1A Journey Through 1,400 Years of Islamic Art
From the Umayyad period to the Ottoman Empire and beyond, the collection showcases the breadth and depth of Islamic artistic traditions. Interactive displays and informative videos enhance the understanding of the historical context and artistic techniques behind each artifact, making the exhibits engaging for all ages.
Beyond the tangible artifacts, the museum offers a profound insight into the interconnectedness of Islamic civilizations. The art on display reflects influences from Spain to India, highlighting a shared artistic language and a rich tapestry of cultural interactions that have shaped the Islamic world.
The Iconic Doha Skyline View
+1This stunning backdrop transforms the museum visit into a multi-sensory experience. Whether you're admiring ancient Islamic art indoors or gazing at the futuristic cityscape outside, the contrast and harmony between history and modernity are striking. It's a perfect spot to reflect on Doha's rapid development and its unique blend of tradition and progress.
+1Many visitors describe the view as one of the best in Doha, making it a must-see even for those who might not spend extensive time in the galleries. The interplay of light on the water and the city's architecture creates a dynamic and ever-changing spectacle, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit