The centre presents local culture, including Islamic and Qatari heritage, to enlighten non-Arab visitors; visiting it is a deeply meaningful experience.
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Heritage
Sheikh Abdulla Bin Zaid AlMahmoud
One of the most widely known landmarks in Doha, the spiral-shaped building, is a governmental entity centrally located near Souq Waqif and the Museum of Islamic Art. It can be seen from a distance, especially in the evenings when its lighting accentuates the unique design of this beautifully unique piece of architecture. Fanar was once the largest mosque in the country.
How to get there?
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Fanar is located in the Corniche area near Souq Waqif.
While it remains a functioning mosque, Sheikh Abdulla Bin Zaid AlMahmoud also hosts religious, education-related and social activities. At the cultural centre visitors can enjoy traditional coffee and learn about the Qatari lifestyle, the country’s heritage and culture.
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Highlights of your visit
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Islamic teachings
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Guided tour
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Friday prayers in English
It hosts a variety of activities including classes, exhibitions and tours. Non-Muslim visitors can attend Friday prayers conducted in English. Staff are more than willing to explain mosque etiquette and courses in the Islamic faith as well in Arabic are available.
See below some helpful information:
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Traditional Hall and Civilization Hall:
This space, designed to look like a traditional Bedouin tent, will give visitors a deep understanding of Qatar's rich culture and traditional life.
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Two local cultural programs:
Both programs discuss the Qatari local culture; clothes, traditions, social and national occasions.
Qatari Majlis is presented in three languages: (English- Spanish- Russian).
Coffee morning is in English only and is delivered to ladies only. Amongst the discussed topics, you will find information and insights about the Qatar National Day, Qatar National Sports Day, Ramadan, Hajj (i.e. Pilgrimage), Qatari traditional life near the coast, Qatari Bedouin traditional life, and dress code in Qatar.
3
VR film and values hall:
This newly opened hall sheds light on the values which Islamic culture represents. All are presented through posters in seven languages. The VR film, along with manuscripts and ornamentation pieces, tells the story of how Islam evolved through the years and how it supports education and knowledge.
4
Imam Mohammad Bin AbdAlwahhab Mosque visit:
This visit opens the gate to observing the local architecture and understanding the beauty and peace of mosques.
5
Arabic courses for non-native speakers:
These courses ease your communication with the local community and help you understand its culture through test books and teachers with long experience in this field.
Useful information
Tuesday 7:15AM–1:15PM
Wednesday 7:15AM–1:15PM
Thursday 7:15AM–1:15PM
Friday Closed
Saturday Closed
Sunday 7:15AM–1:15PM
Monday 7:15AM–1:15PM
Not to miss
Souq Waqif
Msheireb Downtown
Imam Abdul Wahhab Mosque
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Things to know before travelling
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Visas
Want to travel visa-free? Check if you qualify here.
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Getting here
Planning your trip to Qatar? Check how to get here.
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Travel tips
Make the most of your visit with our handy travel guide.
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Getting around
From a dhow boat to our world-class metro, here’s how to easily explore Qatar.
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