Ancient photo art gets a modern twist in Doha
Supercars, satire and live music energize the city’s creative scene.
Welcome to Al-Monitor Doha.
Color, culture and curiosity shape the city’s rhythm this week. A centuries-old photo technique finds new hands, espresso meets engine at a cafe with flair and theater turns daily life into laughter. Whether you're gliding across the sea, discovering local treasures or swaying to the sounds of global stars, Doha is in full creative swing — inviting you to slow down, look closer and take it all in.
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Thanks for reading,
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: Cyanotype on cotton fabric workshop
Cyanotype botanical print on cotton fabric. (Courtesy of Qatar Museums)
Discover the beauty of a centuries-old printing technique in this immersive Cyanotype on Cotton Fabric workshop, led by Qatari photographer Mashael Al Hijazi. This hands-on session offers a creative journey into the origins of cyanotype — a photographic process dating back to 1843, when English botanist Anna Atkins used it to document plant specimens in vivid Prussian blue.
Over the course of three hours, participants will delve into the science and aesthetics behind this alternative photographic method. You’ll learn how to prepare natural cotton fabric as a light-sensitive surface and create your own botanical print, a striking keepsake or handmade gift.
Hijazi brings a deep curiosity for traditional photographic practices and a personal style shaped by both nostalgic formats and modern experimentation. Her work often reflects a strong sense of place and memory, and she continues to explore new techniques that challenge the boundaries of the photographic image.
This workshop promises a rewarding experience blending art, history, and experimentation.
Date: July 5
Location: Learning Space, Floor 1, National Museum of Qatar
More details here.
2. Word on the street: Le Lounge Cafe
Lamborghini display inside Le Lounge Cafe, Gewan Island. (Courtesy of @khalid.reviews/ Instagram)
Coffee, horsepower, and high-end design — Le Lounge Cafe brings them all together in one unforgettable experience on Gewan Island. This sleek new spot isn’t just about sipping espresso; it’s where cafe culture meets supercar fantasy.
With polished interiors, panoramic views of exotic vehicles, and an unmistakable air of luxury, Le Lounge is a haven for car enthusiasts and coffee lovers alike. Whether you're stopping in for a quick caffeine fix or lingering over a latte with friends, the roar of engines and gleam of chrome make every visit a scene straight out of a magazine.
Expect specialty brews, impeccable vibes, and plenty of photo-worthy moments, all in a setting that feels part showroom, part sanctuary.
Location: Gewan Island
More details here.
3. Doha diary
People cool off in the sea at Katara Beach. (DAVID GANNON/AFP via Getty Images)
Kaifan Block 1
A lively social comedy set in a familiar neighborhood, Kaifan Block 1 brings to life the everyday quirks, relationships and challenges of modern family life. With a warm, humorous tone, it explores how ordinary situations — think neighborhood gossip, generational clashes and lighthearted misunderstandings — can turn into moments of laughter and reflection.
Dates: Through July 5
Location: Katara Opera House
More information here.
Summer Bazaar
Whether you’re shopping for fashion, food or home essentials, the Summer Bazaar has it all under one roof. Browse through stalls featuring jalabiyas, abayas, makeup, sweets and nuts, carpets, and much more. It’s a lively showcase of local and regional vendors.
Dates: Through July 9
Location: Doha Exhibition & Convention Center
More information here.
Summer of sport for all 2025
Make a splash this summer! Head to Katara Beach for a family-friendly lineup of water activities, including sailing and kayaking, as part of the “Summer of Sport for All” initiative.
Dates: Through July 9
Location: Katara Beach
More information here.
- World Music Festival Day 1
The festival opens with two Filipino music icons: December Avenue, one of the Philippines’ most streamed indie pop-rock bands, makes their Qatar debut with a set of emotional anthems, while Gloc-9, the country’s leading rapper known for his socially charged lyrics and dynamic flow, returns to the stage with his explosive energy. Expect a powerful night of music, memories and crowd-fueled moments.
Date: July 3
Location: Aspire Ladies Hall
More information here.
World Music Festival Day 2
Brace yourself for a night of timeless hits as Adnan Sami — the musical maestro and recipient of India’s prestigious Padma Shri award — takes center stage in Doha. From his top hits “Lift Karadey” to “Tera Chehra,” experience his powerful vocals and magnetic presence in a live performance sure to captivate audiences.
Date: July 4
Location: Aspire Ladies Hall
More information here.
4. Book of the week: “Qatari Voices”
Edited by Carol Henderson and Mohanalakshmi Rajakumar, "Qatari Voices" brings together essays and reflections from 25 young Qatari writers. This landmark anthology offers personal glimpses into a changing society, from memories of the past to hopes for the future. Tackling topics like arranged marriage, gender roles, and cultural identity, it captures the thoughts and voices of a generation coming of age in a rapidly evolving Qatar.
5. View from Doha
The Hamza ibn Abdul Muttalib Mosque is silhouetted against the setting sun in Doha on June 27, 2025. (Photo by Karim JAAFAR/AFP)
6. By the numbers
- Two Qatari universities have been ranked among the top 10 in the Arab world in the QS World University Rankings 2026, with Qatar University placing second and Hamad Bin Khalifa University coming in eighth.
- Hamad International Airport was ranked eighth globally on Skytrax’s 2025 list of the world’s most family-friendly airports, recognized for its play areas, nursing rooms and dedicated family security lanes.