The expansion of the coveted Art Basel to Doha promises to deliver an esteemed list of contemporary artists both local and abroad.
Slated for February 2026, Art Basel Qatar will be the brand’s first edition in the Arab world, solidifying the nation’s emergence as a cultural and artistic hub for the MENASA (Middle East, North Africa, South Asia) region.
This expansion is a collaborative venture between Art Basel’s parent company, MCH Group, Qatar Museums’ commercial arm QC+, and Qatar Sports Investments.
This strategic expansion reflects Qatar’s calculated bid to lead global creative dialogue, building on years of cultural investment under Sheikha Al Mayassa’s patronage. With institutions like Mathaf, the Museum of Islamic Art, and the revitalized Fire Station, Qatar’s artistic infrastructure is firmly in place.
“The art scene across the MENA region has undergone exponential growth in recent decades, with the establishment of world-class institutions, the launch of leading cultural events and the growth of a vibrant community of artists, galleries and professionals. Qatar’s depth of collections, history of building great cultural institutions and unique role as an incubator and supporter of talent position the new Art Basel Qatar for success on the world stage,” says Noah Horowitz, chief executive of Art Basel.
Art Basel’s arrival in Qatar aligns with the nation’s ambitious vision to position itself as a global cultural hub—moving beyond its traditional reliance on oil and gas towards a future rooted in cultural diplomacy, education, and economic diversification.
The 2022 FIFA World Cup was more than a sporting event; it was a powerful display of Qatar’s ability to host and engage with a global audience while showcasing its rich heritage and modern identity. Building on that momentum, Art Basel Qatar aims to further elevate the country’s cultural narrative, invigorate the regional art market, and inspire a new generation of creative voices across the Middle East and beyond.
The fair will also introduce a curated program of exhibitions, talks, and partnerships across Doha’s cultural institutions, making it a city-wide celebration rather than a singular event. This aligns with Qatar’s 2030 National Vision, which positions culture as central to social progress and economic resilience.
Although the full list of galleries and works are yet to be revealed, Art Basel’s network and Qatar’s existing art ecosystem suggest a potential line of local talent, including Richard Serra, who has a highly visible presence in Qatar with his iconic East-West/West-East installation in the Brouq Nature Reserve.
Qatar Museums has demonstrated interest in acquiring and commissioning large-scale works by internationally renowned artists. Serra’s potential participation would signal the fair’s commitment to showcasing top-tier, museum-quality contemporary art.
Similar to Serra, Yayoi Kusama has a significant public art installation in Doha (e.g., My Soul Blooms Forever at the MIA Park). Her popularity with a broad audience makes her a strong candidate for inclusion, appealing to both seasoned collectors and a wider public.
Olafur Eliasson’s immersive and interactive works often explore themes of nature, perception, and environment, which resonate with Qatar’s focus on sustainable development and its unique natural landscapes. His Shadows Travelling on the Sea of the Day was a prominent public art installation during the FIFA World Cup.
Rashid Johnson’s work, often exploring identity, history, and cultural narratives, has gained significant international acclaim. His Blocked Out sculpture was also part of Qatar’s extensive public art program for the World Cup. His inclusion would bring a contemporary voice tackling relevant social and cultural themes, aligning with a progressive curatorial vision for the fair.
Simone Fattal’s sculpture Gates to the Sea marks the entrance to the National Museum of Qatar, indicating her existing relationship with Qatar Museums. Her work, which often draws on ancient history, mythology, and the complexities of the Middle East, offers a bridge between regional narratives and global artistic practices.
Closer to home, as a pioneering Qatari artist, Yousef Ahmad is a foundational figure in Qatar’s modern art movement. His abstract works, often inspired by Islamic calligraphy and local landscapes, are part of the permanent collection of Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art.
Qatari-American artist, writer, and filmmaker, Sophia Al-Maria’s work often explores “Gulf Futurism” – the impact of technology and global capitalism on Gulf societies. Her multi-disciplinary approach and engagement with contemporary issues make her a highly relevant and compelling voice for a fair aiming to showcase the dynamic arts ecosystem of the MENA region.
Faraj Duham is another established Qatari artist whose work is part of Mathaf’s collection. He is known for his experimental approaches and exploration of cultural and social themes. His participation would highlight the breadth of contemporary Qatari artistic expression beyond traditional forms. His Desert Horse sculpture is also installed at Hamad International Airport.
Mohammed Al-Nasr is a contemporary Qatari artist known for his multidisciplinary work, often exploring themes of identity and heritage. While specific major public installations might be less documented than some international names, his active participation in local exhibitions and cultural initiatives positions him as a strong representative of Qatar’s contemporary art scene.
Lastly, Saudi Arabian artist and fashion illustrator, Shamekh Al-Bluwi’s innovative and popular work has a strong regional following and frequently crosses into the contemporary art sphere through exhibitions and collaborations.
While these artists are strong candidates based on their presence within Qatar’s art scene, the final list of participating artists will depend on the galleries selected to exhibit and their chosen artist rosters. Art Basel claims that selection will be highly competitive.
