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Best Museums in Qatar

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The National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) is a cultural institution located in Doha, the capital city of Qatar. It is designed to showcase the rich history and heritage of Qatar, providing visitors with insights into the nation's past, present, and future.

The museum is housed in a distinctive building designed by the renowned architect Jean Nouvel. The architecture is inspired by the desert rose, a natural phenomenon formed by the crystallization of minerals in the desert sand. The building's design is unique and reflects Qatar's geography and history.

Some of the key highlights of the museum include:

Historical Galleries: The museum features a series of galleries that explore Qatar's history, culture, and heritage. Exhibits include artifacts, multimedia displays, and interactive installations.

Pearl Carpet of Baroda: One of the museum's prized possessions is the Pearl Carpet of Baroda, a stunning carpet adorned with pearls and gemstones. It is a significant cultural artifact that reflects the historical importance of the pearl trade in the region.

Gift Shops and Cafes: The museum has gift shops where visitors can purchase souvenirs related to Qatari culture and heritage. Additionally, there are cafes where visitors can relax and enjoy refreshments.
Beautiful place with exceptional design for the building and the walk ways within the museum. It really provides great views of the history of Qatar at different times.
Qataris are very well proud of their country and it is really very well deserved at the level that they are enjoying.
The museum lacks visitors guidance to have full understanding of the presented valuable and expensive items demonstrated all over the place.
There are several interactive items that would engrave the information about whatever presented.
The parking space is good and at reasonable distance from the entrance of the museum.
The access to the museum is really excellent and made easy by the numerous signs all over the place.
The National Museum is truly a stunning and unusual building. The roof design is something I've never seen before. The day I visited there was an exhibition and it was completely free. Inside the security is tightened. Many workers were there in case you needed help or explanation for any screen and security everywhere. The interior is really beautiful.
Be sure to wear flat comfortable shoes because walking to the building and the entrance is a bit slow and tedious for me in high heels because the time I visit it is a bit gravel outside.
Well worth a visit. Sent two hours touring and then took a break at the museum restaurant before completing the tour. Very well done end-to-end. We now have a much better understanding of the history of Qatar from many perspectives.
The National Museum of Qatar offers a truly exceptional experience. The architectural brilliance evident in both the interior and exterior is captivating. The expositions are thoughtfully curated, catering to all generations with engaging narratives behind each display. The ticket price at 50 QAR is reasonable, and the 50% discount for students is commendable. The presence of a cozy coffee shop adds to the overall enjoyment, and the souvenir shop boasts a delightful array of items. A visit here is not just a museum trip but a journey through time and culture.
A Mixed Bag of Illusions: Fun but Pricey
Located in the heart of the bustling mall, the Illusion Museum promises a whimsical escape into a world of optical trickery and mind-bending experiences. While my visit left me with a smile on my face, I couldn't shake the feeling that the price of admission was a tad steep for the relatively minimal experience offered.

The illusions themselves were intriguing, with a mix of classic optical illusions, holographic displays, and interactive exhibits that invited visitors to challenge their perceptions. The museum's design was visually appealing, creating an immersive environment that played with perspective and reality.

However, the novelty of the illusions wore off quickly, and the museum's compact size left me craving more substance. I couldn't help but compare the experience to the rich, educational offerings of traditional museums, making the illusion museum feel like a fleeting amusement rather than a lasting engagement with art or science.

The pricing, unfortunately, felt disproportionate to the depth of the experience. While I understand the costs associated with maintaining such a specialized attraction, the relatively short duration of the visit left me questioning the value for money. For those on a budget, it might be wiser to invest in a ticket to a conventional museum offering a broader range of exhibits and knowledge.

That being said, if you find yourself with disposable income and are in the mood for a lighthearted, whimsical adventure, the Illusion Museum might be worth a visit. It's a fun way to spend an hour, especially if you're looking for a break from traditional museum fare. Just be prepared to leave with more amusement than enlightenment.

In conclusion, I wouldn't actively recommend the Illusion Museum unless you're specifically seeking a quick, entertaining diversion. If you're a museum enthusiast or looking for a more enriching experience, consider exploring other options. However, if you have some extra cash to spare and are curious about the world of illusions, it's worth a visit – but be sure to set your expectations accordingly.
The museum is small bu has many displays o keep you busy for a while. The kids and I had a great time exploring and playing with different items. They have puzzles to solve and funny & picture worthy items. Highly recommend it!
Great place to chill with a cup of coffee, there’s also Hookah.
genette leigh
at 2023 Nov 01
genette leigh
at 2023 Nov 01
This was useful to see if in the area. What would have made it even better is if there was some more information available as not all buildings have boards to explain what they were and you couldnt go to the top of the towers. The sunset in the area was beautiful
There could have been a little more material, but it's a good idea for a nice weekend. I recommend you try it.
Refaaz Marzook
at 2023 Oct 17
Refaaz Marzook
at 2023 Oct 17
Library Meusum and historical studies center, cultural heritage art
Entrance fee is 50riyals for a 1.5hrs of tour.
I did not get to tour because I have limited time but the place is superb! You will get a ride from parking to entrance for free. You can tip if you want.

The architectural structures are awesome and the history is amicable. Try to get to every corner of it. They also have souvenirs of the desert rose itself. Staff are very friendly. This is one of the best must-visit places when you are in Qatar. The library was closed during my visit but the restaurant was quiet and perfect spot for reading, eating, or just grabbing coffee or a cold drink perhaps. They got it. Prices for the menu is a little high up but ok.
Samer Qatanani
at 2023 Oct 09
Samer Qatanani
at 2023 Oct 09
مكان جميل جداا ….كل التوفيق للشيخ حسن مكان جميل جدا جدا
Great staff i went alone they took great care of me amazing team! it was fun visit i recommend the museum for a family outing
A museum with an architecture like no other where high tech projections combine seamlessly with the traditional Arabic style. Even though not many and not very diverse, the exhibits are cleverly presented in very modern glass only showcase. It is a place that definitely worths a visit!
Abdullah Shah
at 2023 Oct 07
Abdullah Shah
at 2023 Oct 07
First and foremost, parks provide a haven of relaxation and recreation. They are places where families can gather for picnics, children can play, and individuals can find solace in nature. In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, parks offer a serene escape, allowing us to unwind, breathe fresh air, and connect with the natural world.

Parks also play a critical role in promoting physical and mental well-being. They offer space for exercise, whether it's jogging, cycling, or simply taking a leisurely stroll. These activities are not only good for our physical health but also contribute to reducing stress and anxiety, fostering better mental health.
This museum is a must if you are in Doha.
It is very well planned to bring knowledge and a fun experience to everyone visiting. All the exhibitions include videos, a lot of material to read, and some parts are interactive. The whole museum uses projectors to explain the pieces and how things have changed in Qatar.

It's interesting to know that the videos are mostly in B&W, but the objects that appear in color are the ones they have in the museum.

The museum offers free English and Arabic tours, try to get to that tour. The guides are excellent
Really fun place with your own fantastic guide and photographer. Really worth the visit for all ages
An absolutely exceptional museum. This museum is, without a doubt, one of the most impressive museums I’ve ever visited.
The architecture is stunning and the interior is beautiful playing with light, sound, and projections.
The collection boasts three phases which tell a thorough and interesting story of Qatar. The collection is small enough to not overwhelm the guests with too much information, it’s a perfect dose of history. The exhibition flows very fluidly and the jewellery collection is outstanding!
Fun for All Ages! I visited with my family, and we had a blast. From optical illusions to mind-bending puzzles, there's something for everyone. The staff were friendly and helpful too!
The best and most interactive museum in Qatar, all of the staff are friendly and kind, it's appropriate for all ages, and it's best to visit with friends and family.
The Qatar National Museum is really cool. It's a big building with an amazing design. Inside, you'll see lots of stuff that tells the story of Qatar's past. It's a mix of old and new, and it's a great place to learn about the country. Definitely worth a visit!
It was a nice experience
I would have come back if the add more illusion rooms/ sets
Nice museum tackle the slaves history in the area, it provide a holistic overview on a matter that considered a very sensitive
Great museum! Just make sure there’s an ongoing exhibition before visiting (via phone call).
This railway system is fantastic. It takes a short while to get the hang of it but we found other passengers were helpful and guided is to the correct place.
Once we figured out out, it was easy to use.
A day pass for all lines was only QAR6 per passenger
Beautiful museum! It's interesting to see this old and small building coexisting with Doha's skycrapers. My recommendation is to check what's being exhibited before going because your experience will depend mostly on what's being exhibited at the moment and if you're interested in it.
Great place , its all about art , lovely yo see local artists works
A dive into the old and new times and history of Qatar.. the place has quite a few galleries and each gallery is carefully designed and gives a tour to a time in the past and the progress of the present. There are interactive games which the kids would surely enjoy. The entry is free for Qatari residents.

There is adequate parking and the entry to the museum is seamless. Storage area for stuff is available.
nashaat Al-Jahed
at 2023 Aug 13
nashaat Al-Jahed
at 2023 Aug 13
Barzan Castle is a beautiful archaeological site in the State of Qatar, and the Ministry of Tourism attaches great importance in the State of Qatar to many monuments and monuments in the country in terms of protecting them from the air and land worlds, and also protecting them from any dangers.Honest efforts, and thanks to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism for its interest in such important archaeological monuments of precious value. I wish them continued progress and success in all fields.
Reuben Kiptanui
at 2023 Aug 12
Reuben Kiptanui
at 2023 Aug 12
Beautiful place, rich in Arabic history and culture 👌😊
Mohamod Fasil
at 2023 Aug 09
Mohamod Fasil
at 2023 Aug 09
Located next to the Museum of Islamic Art, Qatar Museums Gallery – Al Riwaq is a exhibition space that hosts an exciting roster of ambitious projects.
S. Ahmad
at 2023 Jul 27
S. Ahmad
at 2023 Jul 27
Right now 27/JULY they have an outlet till end of this month (Takashi Murakami, Jeff Koons, DIOR and others) a lot of gifts in good price 😇
Great service. The workers are very friendly. They'll give you a great tour and helps ypu take a photo on the right angle. The tour will be like around 45 mins to an hour.

But if you like puzzles, you'll be there longer. Great place to visit in The Gate Mall Qatar.
Quite an entertaining place, lots to see and explore. The staff is very polite and helpful. Enjoyed our trip.
Haris Saeed
at 2023 Jul 01
Haris Saeed
at 2023 Jul 01
Main gallery is closed, only two galleries open, 1st gallery some paintings of horses and 2nd gallery Huawei P60 advertisements so please don't waste time to visit.
This is quite a busy metro station and a lot of people going to Souq & Souq Waqif. The mens toilet only has 3 cubicles & needs improvement, it's always under maintenance only 1 cubicle is available for thousand of passengers in & out of this station.
Omg.
The most beautiful luxury Metro 🚇 what ever I seen in my life. Hightech, immaculately clean and the daily ticket only 6 rial ! equalled 1.5 £ GBP Congratulations Qatar 🇶🇦
Very interesting, it would get 5 star if it was bigger.....kids love it. It's for all ages. I suggest you plan something else with it as it will take you max 1 hour to enjoy it. City Centre 8 min walk through DECC Metro Station.
The metro station at souq waqif is located on the golden line. This particular station is unique due to the paintings and photographs of traditional old doha embedded on the walls leading In-out of the station. The station is located strategically as it lead to the center of the souq making it extremely easy to locate and accessable. Staff are very helpful and make your commuting experience much easier.
Padh
at 2023 May 19
Padh
at 2023 May 19
For QR80, it's really worth it. It would take a maximum of 2hours which includes taking photos. One of the best illusions that they have inside the museum which are mind blowing. We were quite astonished by the few illusions that they had. A must place to visit in Qatar
Doha Fire Station is a great place to visit and enjoy art through the galleries, exhibitions, Cafe #999, getting art supplies from Cass Art and architecture.
Nurzetty Khairi
at 2023 Mar 24
Nurzetty Khairi
at 2023 Mar 24
We had a tour for this museums. There were 30 ladies in the group. We visited only two houses because of time constraint, but nevertheless it was very informative. There are 4 houses that was changed into museum. The company tells us the story of how qatar started oil exploration and the working condition for the staffs. This house is where the staffs come once a month to collect their pay and see their families. We also visited Radwani’s house which show how the houses changed from 1930s until now. Quite informative. Will definitely see the other museums on another day. The museum staffs were helpful and provide good insights during the tour.
Old Fire Station of Doha converted to an Arts and Cultural Center with galleries, TV studios, restaurants, etc There is also a big Art’s supply store close to the galleries.
It is located close to the FIFA Fan Festival, in the opposite side of the Corniche entrance. During Qatar22, exhibitions of Al Jazeera TV at the main building and of Qatari artist Yousef Ahmad at Al Markhiya Gallery.
Also resident artists exhibitions:
- From____To_____ (water/sky/land)
- Arwa Al Neami: Art is not a race
- Note to self
Toller Ort mit arabischem Flair, viele Händler unterschiedlichster Art, tolle Restaurants, Bars und Cafés - gute Anbindung zur Metro.
Kathleen Vu
at 2022 Dec 21
Kathleen Vu
at 2022 Dec 21
Very well-curated gallery. Enjoyed every piece of art here. A must-visit spot in Doha.
neda bozic
at 2022 Dec 10
neda bozic
at 2022 Dec 10
Interesting, educational, inspirational. Visit all 4 houses, as the content and message are different and all precious.
Staff on all sites is kind and helpful.
David Moakes
at 2022 Nov 26
David Moakes
at 2022 Nov 26
Fascinating architectural style though constructed in recent times. It would have been even better if the towers had been open to climb to the top.
Loved this museum/gallery.
Hadso much going on.
I particularly liked the Al-Jazeera exhibition.
Lots of art and a great Italian restaurant on site.
Even the security guards are helpful and friendly.
Like other metro stations in Qatar. This one is also Good.
Toilets are also neat and clean.
There are four houses of Qatari families located in the Mushreib downtown, turned to the museums with thematic galleries. House of Bin Jelmood, Mohammed bin Jassim house, Company house and Radwani house. By visiting these houses you will learn about history of Doha and development of oil industry and its impact on the economic growth of the country. This complex is totally free of charge. 5 min walking distance to Souq Waqif.
First time trying Doha Metro!!!
Very busy station, but also very kind staff, they helped us find our way to the nearest metro stop to the pearl.
You got different rooms in the train, we first used the standard one (it was super noisy and busy) and then the family one (this one was way better, peaceful).
It's very cheap (tho you can't use the same card for two people). Everything is so clean and well organised.
Sagal Ahmed
at 2022 Jul 27
Sagal Ahmed
at 2022 Jul 27
I did not realise the museum is free to attend! Very thought provoking, my favourite house was Bin Jelmood because they go into depth about slavery in Qatar. Highly recommend if you want to learn about Qatari history, from pearl diving to the history of Musheirab and much more!
M F
at 2022 May 04
M F
at 2022 May 04
Impressive place from decor to infrastructure, u can throw creative events and has impressive cat cages in there. Only bad thing might be surrounding area
Dcosta C
at 2022 Mar 26
Dcosta C
at 2022 Mar 26
Visited the Jeff Koons exhibition...huge gallery loved the location close to the park and the ocean...
Fairoozi Zadah
at 2022 Mar 15
Fairoozi Zadah
at 2022 Mar 15
Got the chance finally to visit Jeff koons gallery, before it ends in March 22.thr interesting thing is all balloons shaped are made of solid metals

Good experience and would like to visit more of art galleries
Azhar Rabbani
at 2022 Mar 13
Azhar Rabbani
at 2022 Mar 13
This is a temporary exhibition centre. Recently I visited there for the exhibition of American artist Jeff Koons. Exhibition was wonderfuly organised and it is must visit event. Full marks to the management of Qatar Museum Gallary.
Tee SeaSea
at 2022 Mar 05
Tee SeaSea
at 2022 Mar 05
A separate exhibition space, the Al Riwaq Art Space, only houses temporary exhibits.

Presently, the art space is hosting an exhibition by Jeff Koons. The layout of this art space is different from the museum of Islamic art, although it occupies the same grounds as the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA). The space was very well set up and brightly lit.

There's a very calm atmosphere to the exhibition, which is thought-provoking and intriguing.
Jamil Clicks
at 2022 Feb 05
Jamil Clicks
at 2022 Feb 05
Beautiful site rich of history & true heritage of Qatar culture. The sunset view from the towers is breath taking and highly recommended to visit and enjoy the beautiful site view and experience the real history and culture.
Al Riwaq Gallery is hosting Jeff Koons’s first exhibition in the Gulf region wich provides a unique view into his exceptional career as one of the best-known contemporary artists.
In the 1990s, he created a series of huge steel sculptures imitating oblong balloon toys. Playing with such balls, as Koons said, in childhood made an impression on him, which has not been erased to this day.
Aisha Ali
at 2021 Dec 20
Aisha Ali
at 2021 Dec 20
Went there today , costumer service was amazing and were very kind and helpful …but honestly in my opinion I did not like the exhibition one bit frankly I found it pretty lame …the “art” pieces idea were too far fetched for me to even consider it art rather then some stupidity. Costumer service was amazing tho hence the one star . wouldn’t recommend going
Aisha Ali
at 2021 Dec 20
Aisha Ali
at 2021 Dec 20
Very nice , the entrance is free the museum was very organized and nice very educational and simple , the presentation of the events was amazing so as the small movies they played loved it so much . You could even add your own story to the museum. Learned a lot and and enjoyed every bit of it . Costumer services is very friendly and helpful 100% would recommend to anyone .
Nuha Hassan
at 2021 Dec 03
Nuha Hassan
at 2021 Dec 03
Very interesting
Siyad Binaf
at 2021 Nov 29
Siyad Binaf
at 2021 Nov 29
One of the historic places in Qatar which is still maintained by Qatar Museums. They are watchtowers built in the 19th century. The historic place is located inside the city and is very accessible. On entering itself there will be a guide who will show you around the place.
Andrew N. Byrne
at 2021 Nov 07
Andrew N. Byrne
at 2021 Nov 07
While this place is currently under repair, I was able to get in before it all happened. I and my mother were the only people there at the time. Such a peaceful place with an interesting story.

Do yourself a favour and read about it before going as it makes the journey slightly outside the main city even more worth it. A great spot to pretend like you're an old world explorer.
Mrs. Valeriya Gray
at 2021 Jan 30
Mrs. Valeriya Gray
at 2021 Jan 30
The Barzan Towers were built in the late 19th century and were renovated in the early 20th century to serve as watchtowers against the incoming Ottoman soldiers.
Unfortunately due to COVID-19 we couldn't get inside the towers. But I would recommend to visit this place.
Anu Divas
at 2020 Nov 18
Anu Divas
at 2020 Nov 18
👍👍👍👍👍
hi I like to see here . thank you.
Travelbug
at 2019 Aug 22
Travelbug
at 2019 Aug 22
Nicely done museum, and the best part- it is free!
FYI there are 4 houses/ exhibit buildings shows case from Qatar oil history to cultural/ ethical higher missions the emir family has done or trying to achieve.
Kelli Cody
at 2019 Mar 30
Kelli Cody
at 2019 Mar 30
Beautiful building, For the Sake of Art exhibition was an interesting selection of artwork and a glimpse of the work in progress print making press was inspiring.
Sue Wyles
at 2019 Feb 27
Sue Wyles
at 2019 Feb 27
Quite interesting to see these old watchtowers.
You are able to climb the stairs inside up to the roof area for a good view.
Not too sure if I'd take young children as steps are quite steep.
karthick Asokan
at 2018 Mar 29
karthick Asokan
at 2018 Mar 29
Unique place for art lovers