The French Institute of Qatar opens its new premises

The French Institute of Qatar (IFQ), the cultural branch of the French Embassy in Doha, relocated to its new premises recently (September 1) in Al Tarfa (Villa 7, Street 860, Zone 68).In a press statement, French ambassador M Arnaud Pescheux said: "This relocation reflects France’s commitment to strengthening its ties of friendship with Qatar, particularly through co-operation in the fields of Francophonie, education, cultural and museum partnerships, and exchanges between experts.” The move responds to IFQ’s growing community, and its ambition to offer an ever-increasing variety of activities to adults and children enrolling each year in its language courses and cultural programmes."We envisioned this space as a dynamic hub fostering learning, creativity, and intercultural dialogue. We look forward to welcoming our students and partners into this new environment,” FIQ director Chrystelle Schaegis said.The new facility includes seven fully equipped classrooms, a media library with nearly 10,000 titles, a dedicated children’s library, and a Majlis designed to host cultural and artistic gatherings.This achievement was made possible through the support of Fifty One East and Fnac Qatar, reflecting their long-standing partnership with the French embassy and the French Institute and the continuation of many successful projects carried out together over the years.The additional support from BNP Paribas and individual donors further demonstrates the wider community’s commitment to IFQ’s cultural and educational mission.Founded in 1989, the IFQ is the sole European and Francophone cultural centre in Qatar. It offers French and Arabic language courses for all ages and proficiency levels, as well as workshops in robotics, computer programming, theater, and reading.The Institute is also the only accredited centre in Qatar authorised to conduct internationally recognised language certifications, including the French exams DELF–DALF, TCF, TEF, DAEFLE, as well as the Arabic certification CIMA.Beyond its educational mission, IFQ is a hub for art, culture, and literature enthusiasts. Each year, it presents a rich cultural programme featuring film screenings, concerts, conferences, exhibitions, and workshops that welcome participants of all ages and nationalities. The IFQ also houses Qatar’s only Campus France office, which provides students with free and personalised guidance on higher education opportunities in France — from academic choices and scholarships to visa procedures and life in France.The French Institute of Qatar is open to the public Sunday through Thursday, from 8am to 5pm.