In its ongoing efforts to promote Qatar’s rich heritage, Qatar Museums (QM) launched a number of cultural activities and tours through Airbnb Experiences, an extension of the global online rental marketplace that curates a host of unique offerings led by locals from cities all across the world.
The initial rollout of QM’s Airbnb Experiences will provide locals and visitors to Qatar with experiences co-hosted by the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA). These include Learn Calligraphy @ MIA, which lets participants discover the world of calligraphy with specialised experts who will delve into the art of Islamic calligraphy and its association with geometric Islamic art and the arabesque form.
Learn about the Art of Illumination @MIA will see specialised experts provide a tour of the museum and its iconic design by world-renowned architect I M Pei, followed by a workshop exploring the details of the art of illumination and how it affects museum spaces. The Explore the History of Islamic Art @MIA takes visitors on a tour of the museum's permanent collection that represents the full scope and diversity of Islamic art dating from the 7th through to the 19th century.
“Through Airbnb Experiences, QM invites the wider community and regional and international visitors to Qatar to expand their cultural horizons by exploring the rich artistic tapestry of our country. Much can also be learned about our history and influences by exploring the architecture throughout the city,” QM Chairperson HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani said.
“We encourage members of the community to join us in serving as local ambassadors of Qatar by hosting their own Airbnb Experiences that showcase their distinctive hobbies. Each of our individual passions contributes to our collective cultural identity and this is an amazing opportunity to showcase these to as many as possible and provide the community and visitors to Qatar with a truly immersive experience,” HE Sheikha Al Mayassa added.
Those with a passion for architecture can sign up to Explore Unique Architecture of the MIA for a guided tour and workshop introducing participants to the geometric patterns of the Islamic world that adorn the spaces of the museum, including the ceilings of the elevators.
To enjoy a beautiful view of Doha’s skyline, QM is also hosting Afternoon Tea in Jiwan, taking guests back to Qatar’s roots in a beautiful setting that showcases the architecture and interior design of the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ).
In the coming months, QM will expand its Airbnb Experiences with tours and activities by Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art, the National Museum of Qatar, IDAM, the Public Art Department and the Division of Cultural Heritage.
