Sheikh Khalifa Bin Abdulla Al-Thani. Photo: Ammar AlQammash
Sheikh Khalifa Bin Abdulla Al-Thani is a Qatari filmmaker, curator, and visual artist. From film to art exhibitions, Al Thani’s work underscores the interdisciplinary exploration of Qatari and identity themes. In the past few years, he has directed, written, and produced several fiction and non-fiction films. His most recent work is Border, which won the silver award in the short-film category at the New York Festivals TV & Film Awards. Al Thani also ventures into curatorial works, most recently the We Will Not Leave exhibition, which took place during the Ajyal Film Festival 2021. He holds a BFA in film and video from the School of Visual Arts in New York City and is currently a part of the Doha Film Institute.
Where to eat
Shay Al Shomous
“For the traditional Qatari breakfast, I highly recommend this restaurant in Souq Waqif. It is owned by Shams Al Qassabi, the first female Qatari business owner in Souq Waqif, and the souq dates back to the 20th century.”
Evergreen Organics
Evergreen Organics
“For another breakfast option, there’s also this vegan restaurant, offering a great selection of healthy foods that are equally delicious.”
Jiwan Restaurant
Jiwan Restaurant
“For a dinner with a beautiful landscape view of the Doha bay, head to this restaurant on the fourth floor of the National Museum. It serves the contemporary cuisine of Qatar and the food is carefully curated to take us back to the country’s roots.”
Twisted Olive
Twisted Olive
“For brunch, this spot in central Doha in the West Bay has a modern, vibrant touch – and very friendly staff.”
Idam
Idam
“For a fine cuisine experience at the Museum of Islamic Art. It’s a great spot for afternoon tea. The location is across from the skyline of Qatar and it’s especially nice during sunset.”
Where to shop
Galeries Lafayette Doha
Galeries Lafayette Doha
“A fun place with a great collection of perfumes and clothes. There are cafés all around the area too.”
Inq, located inside the museums
Inq Gift Shop
“Here are unique pieces that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a small contemporary shop inside the museums.”
What to see
National Museum of Qatar
National Museum of Qatar
“A perfect piece of vision and architecture in a modern as well as traditional theme interpreting the desert rose. A must-visit in Qatar for family and friends.”
Sheikh Khalifa Bin Abdulla Al-Thani at the Museum of Islamic Art
Museum of Islamic Art
“Influenced by ancient Islamic architecture, yet with a uniquely modern design involving geometric patterns. It is the first of its kind to feature over 14 centuries of Islamic art.”
Mathaf
Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art
“A hidden gem in Education City with an excellent curation of modern Arab art.”
Msheireb Museums
“Some fascinating memorabilia and first-hand accounts on historic heritage houses. The interactive features are fun and informative. You can take the tram through Msheireb.”
Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Museum
Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Museum
“This private museum displays more than 30 000 collectibles of the private collection of Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani. A must-see.”
Al Markhiya Gallery
Al Markhiya Gallery
“Along with seasonal exhibitions with interesting themes, there are great works of art by local artists. I always look forward to their exhibitions.”
Originally published in the Fall/Winter 2022 issue of Vogue Man Arabia
Read Next: The 5 Best Fifa World Cup Qatar 2022 Fan Zones in Dubai
