Doha’s couture meets 12th-century tales
From couture to comedy: Doha welcomes Sahar Alanaqa fashion showcase, John Achkar stand-up and more.
Welcome to Al-Monitor Doha.
This week in Doha, Fables in Fashion brings 12th-century tales to life while the Sahar Alanaqa Exhibition highlights traditional arts and crafts. Stand-up shows and live art sessions in local cafes offer casual ways to enjoy the city, while family activities on Gewan Island provide hands-on experiences for all ages. Across galleries, streets and public spaces, there’s a full schedule of events celebrating creativity, culture 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: Fables in Fashion Art Exhibition
Fables in Fashion Art Exhibition at M7. (Photo courtesy of @qatarreads via Instagram)
Step into a world where literature meets couture. Fables in Fashion Art Exhibition 2025 reimagines the timeless tales of Maqamat Al-Hariri through the lens of contemporary art and fashion.
Organized by Qatar Reads, an initiative of Qatar National Library, in collaboration with M7, the exhibition invites visitors to experience Arabic literary heritage in new and unexpected forms. Thirty artists and designers — 13 from Qatar and 17 from around the world — have come together to reinterpret this 12th-century masterpiece, presenting 32 artworks and 8 fashion creations. From canvas and installations to innovative fashion design, each piece transforms the text into a multidimensional journey of imagination and creativity.
The exhibition is part of One Book, One Doha — Qatar Reads’ annual reading campaign that unites the community around a shared work from the Arabic literary canon. This year’s choice, Maqamat Al-Hariri, is celebrated not only as a literary treasure but as a source of artistic inspiration that continues to resonate across centuries.
By blending literature, art and design, Fables in Fashion highlights the enduring power of stories to inspire fresh dialogue and cultural innovation.
Date: Through Sept. 20
Location: M7, Msheireb, Downtown Doha
More information here.
2. Word on the street: Sahar Alanaqa Exhibition
Slide from X28 Events highlighting their latest event. (Photo courtesy of X28 Events)
This September, elegance and tradition take center stage at the Waldorf Astoria Doha with the Sahar Alanaqa Exhibition. Organized by X28 in collaboration with Meraki, the event gathers exclusive collections from leading South Asian designers in a vibrant celebration of culture, creativity and connection.
From flowing dresses and casual styles to intricate shawls and festive ensembles, the exhibition offers pieces that honor heritage while embracing modern flair. Paired with striking jewelry, the collections capture the spirit of the season — timeless, radiant and unforgettable.
More than a showcase, Sahar Alanaqa invites visitors to explore artistry that transcends borders, blending craftsmanship with contemporary elegance. It’s an ideal stop for anyone looking to elevate their festive wardrobe with pieces that tell a story of culture and style.
Date: Sept. 20
Location: Waldorf Astoria Doha, West Bay
More details here.
3. Doha diary
Photo of Lebanese stand-up comedian John Achkar. (Photo courtesy of johnachkar.com)
- John Achkar “I’m Trying” show
Lebanese stand-up sensation John Achkar brings his acclaimed show “I’m Trying” to Doha for one night only. As part of the Wagef Comedy Roadtour, Achkar takes the stage with his trademark blend of sharp wit and everyday humor, promising an evening of unfiltered laughter and connection.
Date: Sept. 20
Location: Qatar National Convention Centre
More information here.
- Family fun at Gewan Island
Gewan Island comes alive with family-friendly activities, offering creative workshops, interactive games and appearances from beloved cartoon characters. Designed to spark imagination and joy, the event provides a vibrant space for children to learn and play while families share memorable moments together.
Date: Sept. 23-27
Location: Gewan Island
More information here.
- Sip & Paint Soiree — Sweet September
Mockingbird Café in Lusail hosts a new edition of the Sip & Paint Soiree, where women gather to create, connect and unwind. With guided painting sessions, refreshments and a cozy atmosphere, the evening blends art with community spirit.
Date: Sept. 19
Location: Mockingbird Cafe, Lusail
More information here.
- Sustainable interactive pavilion at Doha Festival City
In celebration of World Cleanup Day, the Ministry of Municipality brings an interactive sustainability booth to Doha Festival City. Visitors can enjoy competitions, giveaways and educational activities designed to inspire eco-friendly practices and raise awareness about protecting the environment.
Date: Through Sept. 25
Location: Doha Festival City
More information here.
4. Film of the week: “Qatar Stars”
“Qatar Stars” is an observational feature documentary that offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of young girls at a rhythmic gymnastics school in Doha. Filmed over four years, it captures their journeys of growth, friendship and self-discovery while exploring themes of cultural identity and belonging. Produced by Petunia Productions, the film delicately weaves personal stories with broader questions of childhood, ambition and the balance between tradition and modernity in contemporary Qatar.
5. View from Doha
Qatar's athlete Seifeldin Heneida Abdesalam competes in the men's pole vault final during the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo on September 15, 2025. (Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP)
6. By the numbers
- More than 120,000 visitors, over 250 journalists and nearly five million online impressions are expected for this year’s S’hail – Katara International Hunting and Falcons Exhibition, according to s-hail.qa.
- Qatar allocated $5.1 billion to education in 2024, representing 9.3% of its GDP, according to Al Jazeera.