Qatar in 2027

Culture in Qatar 2027

Only part of the 2027 calendar is confirmed so far; we'll add events as their dates are announced. Pick one — we'll arrange the hotel, transfers and tours around it.

Until Jan 31
Design Doha Biennale 2026
Multiple Doha venues
The biennale of contemporary design from the Arab world: furniture, objects, lighting and fashion shown in Doha’s museums and design district. It brings together young designers from the region and established studios. A good reason to see several exhibitions in one day during Doha’s mild winter.
Until Jan 31
Boats Floating Afar
National Museum of Qatar
An exhibition at the National Museum of Qatar on boats and the sea voyages that linked Qatar to the wider world for centuries — trade, pearl diving and fishing. The museum’s desert-rose building is worth the visit on its own.
Until Feb 6
What Lingers in the Artist’s Mind
Mathaf
Modern and contemporary Arab art at Mathaf, the Arab Museum of Modern Art in Education City. The exhibition looks at how artists carry memory and experience into their work. A quiet place to spend a few hours away from the city’s bustle.
Until Feb 13
Giuseppe Penone: The Inner Flow of Life
National Museum of Qatar
Works in trees, wood, stone and bronze by Giuseppe Penone, the Italian sculptor known for the Arte Povera movement. The show is about people and nature and how they grow into each other. It is held at the National Museum of Qatar.
Until Apr 30
Rubaiya Qatar
Multiple Qatar venues
Qatar Museums’ quadrennial of contemporary art: installations, public art and exhibitions in museums, squares and out in the desert. Much of it can be seen for free as you explore the city. It runs until the end of April, so it fits any winter or spring trip.
Until May 29
Wooden Doors of Qatar
Fahad Bin Ali Palace
Carved wooden doors from old Qatari houses and the craft behind them — patterns, materials and the stories of the families who lived there. The exhibition is held in the restored Fahad Bin Ali Palace, itself a fine example of traditional architecture. It is open until the end of May.
Jan 13 – 23
Qatar International Food Festival
Lusail Stadium Precinct
The country’s biggest food festival: street-food stalls, chefs’ shows, music and entertainment for the whole family. It takes over the grounds of Lusail Stadium, where the 2022 World Cup final was played. Go in the evening for cooler air and the lights.
Jan 26
Afro-Asia Cultural Programme
Doha
Music, dance and art from Africa and Asia in a single day in Doha. The programme celebrates the cultures of two continents with close ties to the Gulf. Handy if you are already in Doha in late January for Art Basel Qatar.
Jan 28 – 30
Art Basel Qatar 2027
M7 and Doha Design District
The Art Basel fair in Doha, with leading galleries from around the world, new work and talks with artists. It is held at M7 and the Doha Design District in Msheireb, with preview days on 26–27 January. Hotels fill up quickly that week, so book early.
From Mar 27
Qumra 2027
Doha Film Institute
The Doha Film Institute’s yearly gathering of filmmakers: masterclasses with renowned directors, screenings and new film projects from the region. The public screenings are a good chance for film lovers to catch new cinema from the Arab world.
May 7 – 16Expected
Doha International Book Fair
DECC
One of the region’s largest book fairs, with publishers from across the Arab world and beyond, author talks and events for children. It is held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). The dates are still to be confirmed by the Ministry.
Throughout 2027
Qatar–Egypt Year of Culture
Qatar and Egypt
Qatar’s Years of Culture bring one country to Qatar each year; in 2027 it is Egypt. Expect exhibitions, literature, music, theatre and performances in both countries. Dates of the individual events are still to be announced — we’ll add them here.
Dec 18
Qatar National Day
Across Qatar
Qatar’s National Day on 18 December, with parades, fireworks and celebrations on the Corniche and across the country. In the weeks before, Darb Al Saai hosts traditional games, markets and shows. December is also one of the best months for weather in Doha.