Museum of Islamic Art, Doha

The Museum of Islamic Art is a museum located in the Qatari capital Doha.

HistoryThe museum draws much influence from ancient Islamic architecture, yet has a unique design. It was the first of its kind in Arab States of the Persian Gulf and has a very large collection of Islamic art, plus a study and a library. Facilities also include IDAM, a high class restaurant offering a dining experience of French Mediterranean cuisine with an Arabic twist. The museum has a total area of 45,000 m2 and lies on the edge of Doha harbor at the south end of Doha Bay. Construction by Baytur construction company. (Turkey) reached completion in 2006, but the museum's interior was subjected to a variety of changes thereafter.[2] The museum celebrated its VIP opening on November 22, 2008, and opened to the general public on December 8, 2008.

The museum is situated at stand-alone island for the structure in order to avoid the encroachment on other buildings. Thus it was built on the water, 64 acres (260,000 m2) approximately 195 feet (59 m) off the Doha Corniche and surrounded by a park.

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Museum collectionsThe Museum houses masterpieces of Islamic art, including metalwork, ceramics, jewellery, woodwork, textiles, coins and glass. The collection reflects the vitality, the complexity, and the diversity of the arts of the Islamic world.

Ceramics

As well as being objects of great age and beauty, the ceramics in the museum were also meant to be used. From humble kitchen wares to elaborate tile panels, they were a vital part of everyday life in the Islamic world. They exemplify the external influences and internal creativity that inspired this flourishing of ceramic design over twelve centuries.

Coins

This unique collection of rare gold and silver coins gives a fascinating insight into the lives of Muslim peoples from the 7th century through to the modern period.

Glass

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From enamelled glass, in its multi-coloured glory, to lustre and even simpler cut and moulded pieces, the Islamic world produced beautiful and innovative glass objects over 12 centuries. MIA has some of the finest pieces ever produced, whether created to grace a Sultan’s table, hold a lady’s perfume or even to move across a game-board.

Manuscripts    

The collection has over 800 manuscripts from Qur’ans from the 7th century to Ottoman works of the 19th century. As well as the Qur’ans, you will see manuscripts on science, literature and religious subjects.

Metalwork

Much of the metalwork collection is fit for caliphs, emperors and sultans. From arms and armour and scientific instruments, to household objects, the collection represents the highest-quality metal work of the Islamic world from the 7th century to modern times.

Textiles

The textile collection has some of the finest examples of carpets, costumes and a wide variety of fabrics produced for the elite of the Islamic world

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Museum of Islamic Art Library

Visit the Library Rare Book Room where you can see three special books on Swords as well as a display of books relating to Islamic arms and armour.

Web Site and Internet Facility

http://www.mia.org.qa

 Free Wi-Fi at the museum

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Museum of Islamic Art Park

Adjacent to the museum is MIA Park where you stroll, participate in activities or just gaze at the Doha skyline room the best vantage point in the city.

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