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Museum of Islamic Art
🇶🇦 Doha

Museum of Islamic Art

Must-See ★ 4.7 · 7k reviews
is a museum on one end of the seven-kilometer-long (4.3 mi) Corniche in Doha. As per the architect I. M. Pei's specifications, the museum is built on an island off an artificial projecting peninsula near the traditional dhow harbor. The museum is influenced by ancient Islamic architecture yet has a uniquely modern design involving geometric patterns. It is the first of its kind to feature over 14 centuries of Islamic art in the Arab States of the Persian Gulf. The Museum of Islamic Art represents Islamic art from three continents over 1,400 years. Its collection includes metal work, ceramics, jewelry, wood work, textiles, and glass obtained from three continents and dating from the 7th to the 20th century. The museum houses a collection of work gathered since the late 1980s including manuscripts, textiles and ceramics. It is one of the world's most complete collections of Islamic artifacts, with items originating in Spain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Turkey, India, and Central Asia.

Visitor Info

Rating ★ 4.7 6,586 reviews
Visit Time ~120 min
Best Time Late afternoon or evening
Insider Tips
  • · Go near sunset for the best light over the bay
  • · The top floor galleries are the main reason to visit
  • · Pair the museum with the waterfront promenade below
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Frequently Asked Questions

Who designed this building?
Iconic architect I. M. Pei designed it; he came out of retirement specifically for this project and drew inspiration from a 9th-century ablution fountain in Cairo.
What is the collection?
The museum holds over 800 objects spanning 1,400 years of Islamic art, including manuscripts, textiles, ceramics, jewellery, and metalwork from Spain to Central Asia.
Why is it built on an island?
Pei insisted on the artificial peninsula location so the building would stand apart from the city and its reflections in the water would be unobstructed.
Is photography allowed inside?
Photography without flash is permitted in most galleries; some special exhibitions may restrict it.

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