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Posted On: 4 January 2023 05:00 pm
Updated On: 4 January 2023 01:18 pm

Fascinating finds at the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ)

Tracy Quirino
Tracy Quirino
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National Museum of Qatar Guide final

The National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) is one of the must-visit tourist spots in the country, guaranteeing visitors a fantastic visit with every artefact, structure, and art they see. Apart from the marvellous historical displays, there's a lot more that you can spot at this museum.

This family-friendly destination is a sight to behold and highly educational. The National Museum of Qatar was established in 1975 but has since been renovated to resemble a Desert Rose crystal of Qatar, designed by world-renowned architect Jean Nouvel in 2019.

In this guide, the ILoveQatar.net (ILQ) team takes you on a quick-read journey on the fascinating finds at every crevice of the National Museum of Qatar!

Fossils, flora & fauna of Qatar

National Museum of Qatar Guide
Find interesting fossils, like this dugong fossil, at the National Museum of Qatar!

In the National Museum of Qatar, you'll find historical artefacts showing some of Qatar's earliest signs of life!

Be amazed by the displays found at one of the museum's permanent galleries, including fossils that date to the Devonian period- around 400 million years ago!

National Museum of Qatar Guide
Learn about the Oryx and how they're related to Unicorns!

This section of the museum depicts the beginning of Qatar, from its flourishing plants to the animals habituated in the area.

The gallery hall also highlights life-sized models of animals found in the country, including the Oryx and the Whale Shark.

The early settlements in Qatar

National Museum of Qatar Guide
View artefacts that show the early settlements in Qatar.

Have you ever wondered how Qatar was formed?

Let the National Museum of Qatar mesmerize you as you learn about the early settlements of the people of Qatar with their journey from the inland desert (al barr) to the coast.

National Museum of Qatar Guide
This glimmering section of the gallery has an interactive way of showing the history of pearling in Qatar.

Experience the movement of the historical Qatari people with the preserved artefacts and informative displays in the gallery.

This gallery section also gives you a glimpse of historical activities in Qatar, such as sadu weaving, Arabic coffee making, pearling, and of course, celebrations!

Qatar's journey to modernity

National Museum of Qatar Guide
Discover the history of oil in Qatar!

The National Museum of Qatar features the efforts made by many of the early leaders of Qatar to make it into the country it is today.

In the museum, subjects such as the introduction and discovery of oil in the country are given their own place for recognition. The progression of Qatar's media is also featured in the museum. From telephones to newspapers, you'll be able to witness the growth of Qatar as told through historical items.

Present-day Qatar

National Museum of Qatar Guide
Qatar is now a melting pot of people from different walks of life!

Learn more about the historical and political movements Qatar has seen through the years at the National Museum of Qatar galleries. The last section of the museum's gallery highlights the efforts of the Amir of Qatar H.H. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

In this section, a brilliant digital display is accompanied by striking audiovisual narrations that engulf the space. It sheds light on the 2017 blockade that the country and its leaders encountered and how Qatar rose above the situation, stronger. Towards the end, see yourself among the many people that hope for a bright future for Qatar.

Interactive modes of learning

National Museum of Qatar Guide
Interactive areas are spread across the museum, which people of all ages will enjoy!

Within the museum's galleries, you can easily spot many interactive spaces where children and children-at-heart can immerse themselves in an educational journey.

From learning to make Arabic coffee to diving for pearls, these areas make your trip to the museum extra fun!

National Museum of Qatar Guide
Be enchanted by the life of the historical people of Qatar through the stories depicted in these films!

Many gallery sections also accompany feature films that display meaningful stories and thought-provoking dialogues in minutes!

National Museum of Qatar Guide
Interactive play areas can also be found outside the museum's park!

Learning doesn't just end inside the museum.

Outside the National Museum of Qatar, there are several play areas for children to enjoy and learn in, such as the Heritage Garden, Nakilat Adventure Ship, Cave of Wonders, and the Qatar TotalEnergies Playground.

We highly recommend this for children.

Restaurants & cafes

National Museum of Qatar Guide
Grab a bite at Café 875 and more!

There are a number of restaurants and cafes (including a restaurant by Michelin star Chef Alain Ducasse!) inside and outside the museum that offers high-quality dishes to its visitors.

Below are the food establishments that you can visit at the museum:

  • Jiwan
  • Desert Rose Café
  • Café 875
  • Thalateen
  • Gharissa
  • Mr. Popcorn

Memorable gifts

National Museum of Qatar Guide
Let the little ones take home one of the fluffy toys from the Children's gift shop!

Right by the gallery entrance of the museum lies two gift shops where you can purchase thoughtful presents for your loved ones.

One of the gift shops is a Children's gift shop which sells several adorable trinkets, stuffies, and more!

Other galleries

National Museum of Qatar Guide
The Old Palace, previously the royal family's home, now holds exhibitions for the museum.

Apart from the permanent gallery at the heart of the museum, the National Museum of Qatar also holds occasional exhibits in its spaces, including The Old Palace.

Previously the royal family's home, The Old Palace, was renovated to become a part of the National Museum of Qatar, which people can visit and enjoy the various exhibitions that come and go.

Current exhibitions in the National Museum of Qatar galleries:

National Museum of Qatar Guide
The Majlis: A Meeting Place
  • On The Move- Until 14 January 2023
  • The Majlis: A Meeting Place- Until 31 March 2023
  • Pipiloti Rist: Your Brain to Me, My Brain to You- Until 15 July 2023
  • A Sneak Peek at Qatar Auto Museum- Until 20 January 2024

Details

  • Tickets:
    • Adult Resident of Qatar or GCC country: FREE
    • Adult Visitors: QR 100
    • Children: FREE
    • One Pass Holder: FREE
    • Book your tickets here!
  • Location: National Museum of Qatar
    • NOTE: The museum is also accessible by metro using the Gold Line
  • Timings:
    • Saturday to Thursday: 9 am - 7 pm
    • Fridays: 1:30 pm - 7 pm
  • Phone: +974 4452 5555
  • Instagram: @nmoqatar
  • Facebook: @NMOQatar

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Have you been to NMoQ? Which is your favourite exhibit? Do let us know in the comments section. Like and share this article– it keeps us going.