National Museum of Qatar Tours

National Museum of Qatar
Built in the unusual shape of a desert rose, this museum uses modern displays to cover millions of years of Qatar’s history.

While in Doha, plan to visit the National Museum of Qatar to see state-of-the-art displays explaining the past, present and future of this Arab country. At the core of the futuristic building is the large restored historic Palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al Thani, whose father founded modern Qatar. Admire the artistry of the structure from a distance, then step inside to learn about cultural and natural aspects of Qatar.

After 10 years of planning and preparation, the museum opened in 2019. Consisting of the three separate sections of Beginnings, Life in Qatar, and The Modern History of Qatar, the museum has huge display spaces with room for ongoing expansion.

Visit the 11 galleries, where artifacts and high-tech digital displays tell stories that capture the interest of visitors from around the world. Learn about the impact of pearls, oil, fishing and maritime trade on the development of the country. Interactive exhibits make a museum visit here fun for children too.

The museum was designed by French architect Jean Nouvel to complement the sandy landscape beyond the city of Doha. Notice how the many intersecting discs and cantilevered shapes cling together in a unique structure resembling the crystalline pattern of a desert rose, which is not a plant but a rock cluster.

More than 100 unusually shaped fountain jets spray water in every direction in the lagoon in front of the museum, simulating Arabic calligraphy. Step closer to the building to see patterns etched in the sand-colored discs.

The National Museum of Qatar is on the eastern side of Doha right along the port. For a special treat, travel to the museum by sailboat and view the fascinating structure from the water. You can also take a taxi here or drive and park in the shaded parking lot.

The museum is open from mid morning to early evening every day except Friday when it is open only in the afternoon. Buy tickets online to purchase a culture pass providing non-residents free or reduced-price entry. Admission is free for Qatar residents. Allow at least 2 hours for exploration. Visit the café and gift shop before leaving.

Go to the National Museum of Qatar official website for further information about the museum and what's on there while you are in Doha.

Plan a trip to see National Museum of Qatar

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Pullman Doha West Bay
Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel
Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel

Browse tours and tickets to explore National Museum of Qatar

Reviews of National Museum of Qatar

4.5
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
44
" "5 - Excellent 61.111111111111114%
4 - Good
22
" "4 - Good 30.555555555555557%
3 - Okay
4
" "3 - Okay 5.555555555555555%
2 - Disappointing
1
" "2 - Disappointing 1.3888888888888888%
1 - Terrible
1
" "1 - Terrible 1.3888888888888888%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Aug 30, 2019

Very modern museum, unique building.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near National Museum of Qatar

Golden Ocean Hotel
Golden Ocean Hotel
3 out of 5
Al Meena Street, Doha
Golden Ocean Hotel
Premier Inn Doha Airport
Premier Inn Doha Airport
3 out of 5
Saeed Bin Al Aas Street, Doha, Doha
Premier Inn Doha Airport
Century Hotel
Century Hotel
4 out of 5
Old Slata, 820 Malik Bin Anas Street, El Refaa District, Doha
Century Hotel
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Doha Old Town
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Doha Old Town
5 out of 5
Al Meena Street, Doha
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Doha Old Town
Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel
Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel
5 out of 5
Ras Abu Aboud Street, Post Office Box 26662, Doha
Sharq Village & Spa, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel
The Plaza Doha, LXR Hotels & Resorts
The Plaza Doha, LXR Hotels & Resorts
4.5 out of 5
Umm Ghuwailina Area, C-Ring Road, Doha, Ad Dawhah
The Plaza Doha, LXR Hotels & Resorts
C - Hotel and Suites Doha
C - Hotel and Suites Doha
4 out of 5
Al Mirqab II Rd, Doha, Ad Dawhah
C - Hotel and Suites Doha
Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha
Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha
5 out of 5
Ras Abu Aboud Street, Building 2, Street 920, Zone 28, Doha
Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.