View over Doha

Took this picture from outside the Museum of Islamic Art. This amazing building was designed by architect I. M. Pei. The museum's interior gallery spaces were designed by a team lead by JM Wilmotte of Wilmotte Associes.

The museum draws much influence from ancient Islamic architecture, yet has a unique design. It was the first of its kind in Arab States of the Persian Gulf and has a very large collection of Islamic art, plus a study and a library. Facilities also include IDAM, a high class restaurant offering a dining experience of French Mediterranean cuisine with an Arabic twist under the ausoices of Alain Ducasse. The museum has a total area of 45,000 square metres and lies on the edge of Doha harbour at the south end of Doha Bay. Completed in 2006 but the museum's interior was subjected to a variety of changes thereafter. It was officially opened in 2008.

Declining all proposed sites for the museum, Pei suggested a stand-alone island for the structure in order to avoid the encroachment on other buildings. Thus it was built on the water, 64 acres, approximately 195 feet off the Doha Corniche and surrounded by a park. Pei requested, further, that the museum spaces be designed by his collaborator on the Louvre project, Wilmotte & Associes.

It is beautiful inside and out with brilliant views and tremendous art to see. This is a must go to in Doha.