Located on an artificial island off the seven-kilometer Doha Corniche in Qatar, the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) offers an immersive cultural experience showcasing over 1,400 years of Islamic art from three continents. Designed by renowned architect I. M.
Pei, who drew inspiration from Cairo's Ibn Tulun Mosque, the modern geometric creamy-limestone building stands detached to preserve its striking skyline views over Doha Bay. Inside, you will discover 18 renovated galleries featuring a comprehensive collection of metalwork, ceramics, jewelry, woodwork, textiles, manuscripts, and glass dating from the 7th to the 20th centuries. Highlights of the interior include a large metallic chandelier suspended over the main lobby staircase and a massive northern glass facade providing panoramic vistas of the Persian Gulf.
Beyond the exhibits, the complex houses a bilingual library with study rooms, educational spaces, and the French Mediterranean restaurant IDAM by chef Alain Ducasse. The property connects to MIA Park, a waterfront open space featuring cafes, sculpture installations, and a twice-weekly bazaar, making it a complete destination for history, art, and modern Qatari architecture.
What to see at Museum of Islamic Art
- Architectural design by I. M. Pei on a private artificial island off the Corniche
- Over 1,100 exhibits spanning 1,400 years of Islamic art from three continents
- Historic manuscripts, including a page from the 1,000-year-old Blue Qur'an
- Five-story glass facade offering panoramic views of Doha Bay and the Persian Gulf
- Adjoining MIA Park featuring public sculptures, cafes, and a twice-weekly bazaar
Visiting tips
Visit the museum's adjacent MIA Park to see public sculptures by Richard Serra and Nairy Baghramian, or browse the park's local bazaar held twice a week.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Flexible
How to get there & what’s nearby
Museum of Islamic Art is easy to reach on Doha’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Doha travel guide.
See the full Doha travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.