Designing Qatar's Cultural and National Vision
Doha, Qatar — Chairperson of Qatar Museums, HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, emphasized that leadership vision, creativity, and investment serve as the foundational pillars for the nation’s future. These remarks were delivered during a conversation with internationally renowned architect Lord Norman Foster at the 11th Art for Tomorrow conference.
The event took place on November 5 in Fereej Al Asmakh as part of the opening for the Design Doha Biennial 2026. The discussion, titled "The Future is a Design Question," was moderated by Aric Chen, director of the Zaha Hadid Foundation.
During the session, Sheikha Al Mayassa highlighted Qatar’s capacity to execute its most ambitious cultural season despite facing unlimited challenges stemming from regional geopolitics. She pointed to the extensive program of exhibitions, cultural events, and creative initiatives launched across the country over the preceding two weeks as part of the Qatar Creates Fall/Winter 2026–27 season.
She attributed the country's development trajectory to strong political will, referencing the Qatar Blueprint initiative and the Qatar National Vision 2030. She noted that this national vision was initiated under the late Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani and has been carried forward by current Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
Sheikha Al Mayassa further emphasized that cultural development is guided by strategic investment in education, vocational training, and local expertise. She recalled her father’s belief that Qatar’s greatest asset remains its people.
Architectural Ambition and Political Will
Lord Norman Foster contributed to the dialogue by discussing the realization of Lusail City, describing it as the outcome of political will. He praised the country's courage and determination in transforming ambitious plans into major developments.
The conversation underscored the intersection of architectural design and national policy, with both speakers addressing how strategic planning supports Qatar’s broader goals. The event served as a platform to discuss the mechanisms behind the nation’s ongoing cultural and infrastructural projects.