Building Qatar’s future: Project Qatar turns 20
Lebanese stars, Michael Bublé live and a striking new look at Italian design.
Welcome to Al-Monitor Doha.
This week in Doha offers a dynamic mix of design, culture and performance. Project Qatar 2025 marks 20 years of infrastructure development with an eye on 2030. At the National Museum, a new exhibition spotlights Marcello Gandini’s influence, connecting Italian design with Qatari creativity. Music highlights include performances by Lebanese icons and a jazz set from Michael Bublé.
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1. Leading the week: Project Qatar 2025
Photo by Project Qatar. (Courtesy of their official website)
Under the patronage of the prime minister and minister of foreign affairs of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, Project Qatar returns to mark a major milestone — its 21st edition, celebrating two decades of excellence in Qatar’s construction and infrastructure landscape.
Since its inception in 2004, Project Qatar has been a cornerstone event in the region’s construction industry, fostering high-level partnerships and serving as a platform for innovation, knowledge sharing and business development. The exhibition has consistently attracted key stakeholders from sectors including building materials, construction equipment, MEP services, and architectural design — as well as government bodies presenting major infrastructure initiatives.
Under the theme “Innovation & Sustainability: Qatar’s Path to 2030,” the event reflects the country’s ongoing transformation and commitment to sustainable growth in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.
The forum offers a platform for global and local players to connect, exchange insights and explore the latest technologies and sustainable solutions driving the future of construction.
Dates: May 26-29
Location: Doha Exhibition and Convention Center
More details here.
2. Word on the street: Ultraleggera
An undated image of Marcello Gandini. (Courtesy of the Qatar National Museum)
Step into the visionary world of Marcello Gandini, the legendary Italian designer behind automotive icons such as the Lamborghini Miura, Countach and Lancia Stratos. Co-produced by Qatar Auto Museum, Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile (MAUTO) and VCUarts Qatar, Ultraleggera traces Gandini’s legacy while spotlighting Qatar’s next generation of design talent.
The exhibition explores Gandini’s radical philosophy of lightweight engineering — a revolutionary approach that prioritized agility, innovation and efficiency without compromising aesthetics or performance. His work not only redefined the concept of the supercar but continues to inspire designers today.
Curated by his daughter, Marzia Gandini, and Gautam Sen, and designed by VCUarts Qatar’s Simone Carena, the show features:
- Original sketches, prototypes and archival materials
- Signature models that transformed automotive history
- Experimental installations by VCUarts Qatar students, inspired by the 2024 “Moving Interiors” masterclass with Gandini
Dates: Through 2 June
Location: National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ), Gallery 13
Find more details here.
3. Doha diary
Michael Bublé speaks onstage during the 2025 JUNO Awards at Rogers Arena on March 30, 2025 in Vancouver, British Columbia. (Photo by Cindy Ord/Getty Images)
Michael Bublé at QNCC
Michael Bublé takes the stage in Qatar for a spectacular two-night performance. The Grammy-winning global superstar will deliver a dazzling showcase of his greatest hits, including “Haven’t Met You Yet,” “Feeling Good” and “Everything,” alongside timeless jazz classics.
Dates: May 23-24
Location: Al Mayassa Hall, QNCC
More information here.
“Lebnan Yoghani”
Experience the spirit of Lebanon like never before at “Lebnan Yoghani,” an unforgettable one-night concert featuring four of Lebanon’s most-celebrated artists: Nancy Ajram, Waleed Tawfik, Michel Fadel and Christina Kassab.
Dates: May 22
Location: Hall 685, Qatar National Convention Center
More information here.
Abaya Rally 2025
The Abaya Rally Qatar 2025 makes its debut as the country’s first all-women drive, bringing its celebrated spirit of empowerment from Dubai to Lusail International Circuit. More than just a rally, this groundbreaking event features a thrilling car parade on the iconic track, a dynamic panel talk with inspiring female leaders, a stylish abaya fashion show and a glamorous gala night.
Dates: May 24
Location: Lusail International Circuit
More information here.
QNB One Run for All
Join the second edition of QNB One Run for All, a global running event promoting sports, cultural exchange and international friendship. Open to all ages and fitness levels, the event features multiple race categories including 1K, 5K, 10K and a 21.1K half-marathon.
Dates: May 23
Location: Lusail Circuit
More information here.
Amir Cup 2025 Finals
Don’t miss the most anticipated event in Qatar’s soccer calendar: the Amir Cup 2025 Finals. Witness top-tier teams clash in a thrilling showdown for the prestigious title.
Dates: May 25
Location: Khalifa International Stadium
More information here.
4. Book of the week: “The Strange Trader”
In this compelling Arabic-language novel, acclaimed Qatari author Abdulla Fakhroo explores the moral consequences of unchecked ambition amid economic collapse. Set against the backdrop of a severe depression, “The Strange Trader” follows the unraveling of trade and society as desperation pushes people to act against their values. With sharp social insight, Fakhroo probes the cost of greed and survival, asking: What is the true price of a man’s insatiable hunger for wealth? A powerful allegory with enduring relevance.
5. View from Doha
FIFA president Gianni Infantino (L) and Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani (R) look on as US President Donald Trump autographs a soccer ball during a signing ceremony after a state dinner at the Lusail Palace in Doha on May 14, 2025. (BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images)
6. By the numbers
- Travis Scott’s Circus Maximus Tour stop in Doha attracted 21,456 attendees, including 5,996 international visitors, according to Visit Qatar.
- Following President Donald Trump's visit to Qatar on May 14, the White House announced $243.5 billion in new deals, framing them as part of a broader initiative it claims will drive $1.2 trillion in economic exchange.