Doha Design District Hosts Landmark Week of Global Art And Design, Cementing Doha's Rise as a Cultural Capital

Doha, Qatar - February 11, 2026: Doha Design District (DDD) has reinforced its status as the region's leading creative powerhouse after hosting a landmark week of international art and design activations that positioned Msheireb Downtown Doha at the center of the global cultural conversation.

Bringing together world-renowned institutions, international galleries, leading creatives, collectors, and cultural decision-makers, DDD transformed into a dynamic platform for dialogue, exchange, and innovation — underscoring Doha's accelerating rise as a global destination for art and design.

From February 1-7, the district presented 'Between the Majlis and the Gallery' at SANAD - DOHA, a curated exhibition that explored the intersection of tradition and contemporary artistic practice. Featuring 15 artists represented by three galleries, the exhibition created a powerful dialogue between the cultural intimacy of the Majlis and the formal architecture of the gallery, attracting VIPs, dignitaries, and key figures from across the creative industries.

Simultaneously, Doha Design District hosted Art Basel Qatar from February 5-7, a historic milestone marking the fair's first-ever edition in the MENASA region (Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia). The event showcased 84 presentations from 87 galleries representing 31 countries and territories, connecting regional artistic production with one of the most influential global art networks.

The launch represents a defining moment in Art Basel's 55-year history and a strategic expansion that reflects Qatar's sustained cultural investment. By anchoring this global platform within DDD, Doha strengthens its position as a gateway between emerging markets and the international art ecosystem, fostering long-term growth, collaboration, and market development.

Throughout the week, thousands of visitors engaged in exhibitions, curated experiences, and cultural programming across the district. As part of the smart and sustainable Msheireb Downtown Doha development, Doha Design District continues to lead with a future-focused model — one that integrates design excellence, creative entrepreneurship, and cross-sector collaboration.

Dana Kazic, Director of Doha Design District, said: 'We are proud to position Doha Design District as a catalyst for cultural exchange and creative leadership in the region. By hosting globally significant platforms and building strong international partnerships, we are shaping an ecosystem where talent, innovation, and artistic excellence thrive. Our ambition is clear: to elevate Doha as a key destination on the world's cultural map.'

With an expanding calendar of international collaborations and high-impact programming, Doha Design District continues to redefine the region's creative landscape, setting new benchmarks for design, art, and cultural innovation. The creative district plays a pivotal role in advancing Qatar National Vision 2030 by empowering talent, supporting creative industries, and contributing to economic diversification through culture and innovation.

Doha Design District sits at the center of Msheireb Downtown Doha, Qatar's flagship smart and sustainable urban destination developed by Msheireb Properties.