Museum of Islamic Art

Qatar Museums commissioned The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) in Doha in 2008. It has been open to the public ever since. Its design is inspired from the Ibn Tulun Mosque of Cairo. A unique blend of geometric patterns and modern architecture, brought to life by the great architect I.M.Pei on a purpose-built peninsula along the Doha Corniche. MIA houses very ancient and valuable collections, few are even from 1,400 years ago. They have manuscripts, ceramics, textiles, glassware, metalwork, and jewelry from across the Islamic world. This museum hosts several exhibitions which act as a hub for culture and art programs. MIA underwent a major renovation and reopened in October 2022 as part of Qatar's vision to make Doha as a global cultural center. This redesigning is fully focused on enhancing the visitor experience. Today, it remains one of the Middle East’s most visited museums, symbolizing Qatar’s dedication to preserving and celebrating Islamic heritage.

How to get there

• By Air: Fly into Hamad International Airport. From the airport it takes 25 - 30 minutes to reach the Museum of Islamic Art.
• By Taxi: take a taxi to reach the Museum of Islamic Art.

Timings and Tickets

Opening hours

• Saturday to Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
• Thursday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
• Friday: 1:30 PM - 7:00 PM
• Wednesday: Closed

Entry Fee

• One Pass Holder: Free
• Adult and GCC Residents: QAR 50
• Adult – Qatar Residents: Free
• Children (16 and under): Free

Things to do

• See the Permanent Collection: MIA boasts an enormous collection of 14 centuries of Islamic art globally. The geographically and thematically organized galleries display objects such as ceramics, metalwork, manuscripts, and textiles.
• Visit Special Exhibitions: The museum also features periodic temporary exhibitions that concentrate on a specific topic of Islamic art and culture.
• Attend Workshops and Learning Programs: MIA has a set of workshops and learning programs for children of different ages, on Islamic art, calligraphy, etc. These are interactive sessions to learn and get to know about the art forms in a better way
• Unwind at MIA Park: On the museum's doorstep, MIA Park provides green parks and stunning views of Doha's skyline.
• Dine at IDAM Restaurant: On the museum's top floor, IDAM by renowned chef Alain Ducasse offers haute cuisine with a menu that blends French Mediterranean tastes with a dash of Arabic.
• Visit Cultural Events: MIA receives a variety of cultural events all year round in the form of Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra performances, cinema shows, and calligraphy and art classes that accompany the visit experience.

Travel Tips

• Best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when fewer people are around.
• There is a conservative dress code in Qatar. Ensure that your outfit covers the knees and shoulders, especially since the museum is a cultural institution.
• Reserving online is recommended so as to avoid long lines.
• Don't miss to view Shahnameh Manuscript, Mamluk Glassware & Ceramics, Islamic Calligraphy Collection and Astrolabes & Scientific Instruments.
• MIA offers free guided tours on certain days, which provide detailed information regarding Islamic art and history. Check the museum website for timings.
• If you are visiting a number of museums in Qatar, check for a 'One Pass' that provides discounts and free entry to other cultural sites.

Interesting facts

• The museum was constructed by I.M. Pei, the same architect of the Louvre Pyramid in Paris.
• Pei retired at the age of 91 to design MIA and embarked on a tour of the Islamic world to be inspired before establishing the ultimate design.
• The museum was situated strategically on an artificial island within the Doha Bay to ensure that surrounding development would not occlude its view of the city skyline.

FAQs

What is the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA)?

The Museum of Islamic Art is one of the best museums in Doha, Qatar, that is used to showcase Islamic art from around the world ranging over more than 1,400 years. The museum houses artifacts from Spain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Turkey, India, and Central Asia.

Where is the Museum of Islamic Art?

MIA is located on a man-made island on the Doha Corniche with stunning views of the city skyline.

How many hours will I spend at the museum?

A full visit will take you 2 to 3 hours depending on how much you want to know about Islamic art and history.

What don't I want to miss in the galleries at MIA?

• Some of the absolute must-see items are:
• The Blue Qur'an (an extremely rare, gold-inscribed one).
• The Ardabil Carpet (one of the oldest Persian carpets known).
• The Mamluk Glass Lamps.
• Scientific Instruments & Astrolabes.

Are there guided tours at the museum?

Yes, there are free guided tours on some days. Check their official site or inquire at reception for the schedules.

Can photography be taken inside the museum?

Yes, photography is allowed in most of the areas without flash. But some of the temporary exhibitions are restricted.

Is there a restaurant or a cafe at MIA?

Yes! The museum features IDAM by Alain Ducasse, a Michelin-starred restaurant offering French-Arabic fusion cuisine. There is also a café for lighter fare and coffee.

Does the museum have a gift shop?

Yes, MIA has a museum store with art books, Islamic-themed gifts, jewelry, and handcrafted items.