A feast for the senses at Doha’s Museum of Islamic Art

Welcome to Al-Monitor Doha.

This week in Doha, stories simmer, sparkle and sing — from ancient feasts to future beats. Step into museum halls where centuries-old recipes come alive, savor Italian elegance with a Michelin touch and lose yourself in candlelight, techno waves or the scent of ripe mangoes.

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Reve

P.S. Have feedback or tips on Doha's culture scene? Send them my way at contactus@al-monitor.com.

1. Leading the week: "A Seat at the Table"

Installation view of “A Seat at the Table: Food & Feasting in the Islamic World,” Museum of Islamic Art, Doha, 2025. (Courtesy of Qatar Museums)

The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) invites visitors on a multisensory journey through the rich culinary traditions of the Islamic world with “A Seat at the Table: Food & Feasting in the Islamic World.” Organized in collaboration with the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), this landmark exhibition explores how food has shaped culture, ritual and identity from the seventh century to the present day.

Structured into five thematic sections, the exhibition features more than 100 exquisite objects, from opulent Ottoman dishes and Mughal-era jars to Persian cauldrons and Samanid glass spoons sourced from MIA’s permanent collection and partner institutions across Qatar. Each section is paired with video installations spotlighting contemporary chefs recreating traditional recipes, bridging the past and the present.

More than a visual feast, the exhibition traces the role of cuisine in courtly etiquette, religious gatherings and everyday hospitality, and examines the profound influence of trade and migration on the evolution of regional flavors.

Highlights include a 16th-century Iznik dish from Ottoman Turkey, a diamond-inlaid Mughal jar from 19th-century India, a Timurid jug from Herat signed in 1485 and a massive Khorasani cauldron from the 12th century. Manuscripts, paintings and artisanal tableware complete this immersive experience.

Dates: until Nov. 8

Location: Museum of Islamic Art

More details here.

2. Word on the street: ALBA

Chef Cristhian Serraino at work in the ALBA kitchen. (Photo courtesy of ALBA / Raffles Doha)

Raffles Doha has appointed Cristhian Serraino as head chef of ALBA, its signature Italian restaurant recently recognized in the 2025 Michelin guide’s “Selected Restaurants” for Doha.

With more than 15 years of experience across some of the most celebrated kitchens in Europe and the Middle East, Chef Cristhian brings a refined, ingredient-led philosophy to one of Qatar’s most elegant dining destinations. His resume includes stints at Michelin-starred restaurant Story in London, Humble Chicken, and most recently, Le Royal Meridien Doha.

Known for its quiet elegance and seasonally driven menus, ALBA offers a culinary narrative inspired by northern Italy’s gastronomic heritage — interpreted through a contemporary lens. With its warm, intimate interiors and impeccable service, the restaurant continues to be a favorite among discerning diners in Doha.

Location: ALBA, Raffles Doha

More details here.

3. Doha diary

A pianist performs by candlelight as part of the Candlelight Concerts series. (Photo courtesy of Fever / Candlelight Experience)

• Candlelight: Queen vs. ABBA

Candlelight concerts return to Doha with a glowing tribute to Queen and ABBA at the Museum of Islamic Art Auditorium. Enjoy timeless hits like "Bohemian Rhapsody" and "Dancing Queen" in a magical, candlelit setting led by live piano.

Date: June 13

Location: Museum of Islamic Art Auditorium

More information here.

• FIBA 3x3 U23 Youth League – Basketball

Catch the next generation of basketball stars in action as the fast-paced FIBA 3x3 U23 Youth League comes to Doha. The half-court format delivers nonstop energy and fierce competition.

Dates: June 12-18

Location: Qatar Basketball Federation Hall

More information here.

• Al Hamba Indian Mango Exhibition 2025

Souq Waqif welcomes the sweet season with a celebration of India’s favorite fruit — the mango. The exhibition showcases a variety of mangoes and related products inside an air-conditioned tent.

Date: June 12-21

Location: Eastern Square, Souq Waqif

More information here.

• ‘Ultra’ live in Qatar

Sri Lanka’s techno maestro DJ Ultra takes over Glo Bar for one explosive night of beats, visuals and boundary-pushing sound. Expect underground energy and late-night rhythm at one of Doha’s hottest venues.

Dates: June 12

Location: Glo Bar, Marriott Marquis City Center Hotel

More information here.

• Another Dimension 2060

Society Doha invites you to an immersive multimedia party blending art, light and sound in a celebration of futuristic joy. Another Dimension 2060 is part rave, part installation — and all about taking your senses beyond reality.

Dates: June 12

Location: Society Doha

More information here.