Exploring MIA's architectural wonders

Welcome to Al-Monitor Doha.

This week in Doha take a deep dive into the architectural wonders of the Museum of Islamic Art, savor the rich heritage of Qatar’s date harvest at the Heenat Salma Farm, and explore a diverse lineup of workshops and events that celebrate tradition, creativity, and community.

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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: MIA architecture tour

The intricate geometric ceiling of the Museum of Islamic Art’s grand atrium. (Photo courtesy of the Museum of Islamic Art)

Step into a world where art, history and geometry converge at the Museum of Islamic Art, a modern masterpiece with timeless roots. Rising gracefully from its perch on the Doha Corniche, the MIA is more than a museum; it’s an architectural statement.

Designed by the legendary Chinese architect I.M. Pei, the building draws inspiration from centuries-old Islamic architecture, reimagined through a modern lens. Its geometric forms, playfulness with light and shadow, and pristine limestone facade evoke both ancient traditions and contemporary elegance.

A guided architectural tour offers a rare chance to explore the museum’s design in depth. Learn how Pei traveled across the Muslim world in search of inspiration and how elements ranging from Cairo’s Ibn Tulun Mosque to the deserts of the Gulf influenced his final vision. Discover the hidden symbolism in the building’s five-tiered facade, the striking oculus that crowns the atrium, and the way every angle frames the surrounding sea and skyline.

In addition to showcasing the museum’s breathtaking structure, the tour also invites you to experience some of MIA’s most celebrated collections. From intricately patterned ceramics to centuries-old manuscripts, each piece tells a unique story of craftsmanship and cultural exchange.

The 45-minute tour will deepen your appreciation for the art of design.

Dates: Every Monday in August

Location: Museum of Islamic Art

More details here.

2. Word on the street: Date harvesting at Heenat Salma Farm

A man harvests fresh rutab at the Heenat Salma Farm. (Photo courtesy of Heenat Salma Farm)

Experience the seasonal magic of Qatar’s date harvest with an afternoon steeped in tradition at the Heenat Salma Farm. This immersive, hands-on workshop invites you to reconnect with the land and local heritage, beginning beneath the shade of towering palms, where you’ll harvest fresh, golden rutab.

As you wander through the farm’s lush organic groves, you’ll learn time-honored techniques, such as palm climbing and shake-sheet harvesting, gaining insight into the care of date palms and their cultural significance in Qatari life. Along the way, the farm’s serene landscape forms the perfect backdrop for slowing down and savoring the rhythm of the season.

Your visit can be tailored to your taste. Choose the Harvest Experience offering to enjoy a guided session in the groves and leave with a basket of hand-picked dates. Choose Harvest with Afternoon Tea for a nourishing farm-to-table spread or join Harvest with Culinary Class to transform your harvest into date-infused creations, such as vibrant salads or fresh-baked cookies, in the farm’s artisanal, open-air kitchen.

Dates: Through Sept. 10

Location: Heenat Salma Farm

More information here.

3. Doha diary

 Naskh calligraphy. (Photo courtesy of Museum of Islamic Art)

• Naskh Calligraphy (for Beginners)

  Discover the art of Naskh, one of the oldest and most revered forms of Arabic calligraphy, at a workshop offered by the Museum of Islamic Art Library. Known for its simplicity and clarity, Naskh was traditionally used for copying books and manuscripts and holds special significance in Islamic culture.

  Dates: Aug. 16 and 23

  Location: Museum of Islamic Art Library

  More information here.

• Doha Photography Award 2025

  Celebrate Qatar’s vibrant creative scene with the Doha Photography Award, open to photographers of all ages and skill levels. This competition features multiple categories, including Qatari themes, emotions, storytelling, color photography, black and white photography, and a special category for aspiring photographers under 18. Participants can compete for substantial cash prizes, including the top award of QR 300,000 (approximately $32,420).

  Date: Registration opened Aug. 10, and submissions close Oct. 2.

  More information here.

• Resin Art: Create & Pour Your Own Art, with Marwa Labib

  Join the final Youth Summer Programme workshop to explore resin art with Marwa Labib, founder of Resin Tranquility. Learn to work with color, real flowers, and various techniques to create your own unique art piece, whether you’re a beginner or refining your skills. Participants’ creations will be featured in an exhibition celebrating their talents.

  Date: Aug. 17–21

  Location: Education Studio, Fire Station

  More information here.

• Years of Culture Summer Family Weekend

  Celebrate Argentinian and Chilean culture at the Years of Culture Summer Family Weekend at the Teen Hub, featuring hands-on workshops, films, and activities for children ages 4–15 and their families. Presented in collaboration with the Embassy of Argentina and ProChile, this lively three-day event offers fun and educational experiences that inspire creativity and cultural exchange.

  Dates: Aug. 14–16

  Location: Teen Hub 

  More information here.

• Kufic Intermediate Workshop

  Build on your calligraphy skills with this four-session Kufic Intermediate workshop led by Hussein Ammar Ahmed. Explore the classic Kufic script, known for its bold, vertical letters inspired by the city of Kufa, Iraq. The course is designed for learners who have completed the beginners’ Ruq’ah course and who want to master more words and phrases in this striking style.

  Dates: Aug. 20 and 27

  Location: Education Centre, Museum of Islamic Art

  More information here.