Doha 365: Your introduction to all things Doha
The pace, prosperity and optimism of Doha are palpable the
moment you arrive. In the simplest of terms, Doha is HOT. (And
yes, it is also a geographic locale known for its immoderate seasonal
temperatures as well.)
What will you see? Traditional souqs alongside the sprouting
skyscrapers of one of the world’s most dynamic - and architecturally sophisticated - skylines. World-class
universities, a wealth of cultural institutions, luxurious cars and
shops, and a glistening azure sea.
Over the past decade, Qatar, the oil- and gas-rich state across the
Persian Gulf from Iran, has transformed itself into a hub for political
discussion, international sporting action, social debate, and artistic expression. Ruled by the
Al-Thani family for over two centuries, the country has undergone a
series of dramatic changes: from a modest pearling and trading center
into an independent state seen as a model for urban planning and
cultural development for the Middle East in the 21st century.
Education First
This transformation is most visible in initiatives such as Education City - one of the Arab world's most ambitious educational experiments. Founded ten years ago, the city houses six satellite campuses of leading western universities. It intends to become the center of educational excellence in the Arab world – with a stated aim of cultivating future world leaders.
Her Highness Sheikha Mozah bint Nasser Al Missned, determined to forge a progressive path for Qatar, chairs Qatar Foundation – the umbrella group that includes Education City.
On the drive back from Education City to Doha, it’s hard to miss the dozens of signs lining the Corniche that read "Hand in Hand for Education... For Qatar!" This is accompanied by a photo of an adult's hand guiding a child's hand as he writes.
International Flavor
The glitz and glamor for which the region's oil-rich countries have become famous is certainly visible in Doha. Just a few blocks after the banners advertising Qatar's education initiative come enormous billboards reminding drivers that "Venice is now in Doha!" – referring to the Villagio Mall, a magnificent mega shopping center where gondolas float along an indoor, Venetian-style canal, and ceilings are painted to resemble a daytime blue sky or twilight black.
Thus in certain parts, Doha can be reminiscent of Italy, London or India. But it’s the emphasis on culture and education that truly makes Doha a budding international city. Initiatives launched in only the past year include the first Doha Tribeca Film Festival, the birth of the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra and the stunning Museum of Islamic Art - one of the world's most comprehensive collections of Islamic art, and a symbol of Qatar's transformation into the region's cultural center.
The Path Forward
Qatar's bold cultural ambitions can be directly traced to its
Emir, His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. Last year, the
Museum of Islamic Art was officially opened; this year it will be the
host to the Doha Tribeca Film Festival, another milestone in cultural
activity.
These activities are overseen by the Qatar Museum Authority,
an organization chaired by Sheikha Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani.
With the highest GDP per capita in the world, the government is positioned to continue its heavy investment in the growth and development of its economy, culture and society at large.
The Doha Tribeca Film Festival hopes to be a humble part of that incredible movement towards sustainable modernity that is in harmony with Qatar's rich traditions – where engagement with the region and wider world is not just welcomed, but deemed necessary.