Art Basel Qatar will launch in Doha in February 2026, marking a new chapter for the country’s cultural landscape. This prestigious event will reinforce Qatar’s role as a leading global arts hub. The fair promises to showcase modern and contemporary art from the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, and beyond. It will take place at the M7 creative hub and Doha Design District in downtown Msheireb, close to iconic landmarks such as the National Museum of Qatar.
This collaboration involves Art Basel and its parent company MCH Group, along with Qatar Sports Investments (QSI) and QC+, a creative collective focused on cultural commerce. Together, they will build a platform that goes beyond a traditional art fair. For example, Art Basel Qatar will engage audiences year-round through education, public programming, and market development.
Furthermore, the event will open new opportunities for galleries, artists, collectors, and cultural leaders from the MENA region and globally. The inaugural edition will feature a carefully curated selection of galleries and artists. This approach aims to meet today’s market demands while setting the stage for future growth.
Qatar’s vision to develop its cultural sector underpins this project. HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums, has emphasized culture’s role in transforming Qatar into a knowledge-based economy. She highlighted how museums, festivals, and creative hubs have shaped the country’s arts ecosystem.
Additionally, QSI’s chairman, HE Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, expressed pride in bringing Art Basel Qatar to the region. He sees the event as part of Qatar’s legacy from the FIFA World Cup 2022, uniting sports and culture to inspire communities.
QC+ has supported Qatar’s cultural infrastructure and will help develop the fair’s visitor experience. Meanwhile, MCH Group commits to delivering a unique and successful event that attracts global art buyers and enthusiasts.
Art Basel Qatar’s CEO, Noah Horowitz, noted the region’s growing art scene. He praised Qatar’s cultural institutions and commitment to nurturing artists. He believes this partnership will help expand collecting audiences and strengthen the arts community.
In conclusion, Art Basel Qatar will firmly place Doha on the international art map. It will provide a vibrant platform for creative exchange, economic growth, and cultural collaboration. Qatar continues to build its reputation as a dynamic arts hub, welcoming the world to share in its flourishing creative scene.
