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Inspiration

Qatar, then and now

An exciting journey from Qatar’s past to present via pictures

Leading the way to the future

Qatar became an independent nation in 1971, before which it was a British Protectorate.  It has come a long way since then, achieving an impressive transformation. Witness its progress and development, from a pearl fishing community to the world’s wealthiest country, through images.

Today, Qatar attracts visitors from all over the world. Its impressive architecture, inspiring art and culture scene, sports events, rich and diverse cuisine, modern shopping malls, luxury hotels and resorts draw increasing numbers to the country’s shores.

Enjoy the journey!

West Bay Skyline

Skyscrapers, impressive buildings; West Bay is Doha’s heart and where all business activity occurs.

West Bay Skyline- PRESENT
West Bay Skyline- PAST
West Bay Skyline- PRESENT
West Bay Skyline- PRESENT

Sheraton Grand Doha Resort and Convention Hotel

First opened in the ‘80s, Sheraton is one of Qatar’s landmarks, overlooking West Bay. The area around Sheraton is now transformed, but the hotel remains a symbol of unparalleled hospitality.

Sheraton- PRESENT
Sheraton- PAST
Sheraton- PRESENT
Sheraton- PRESENT

National Museum of Qatar

Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, the National Museum of Qatar draws inspiration from the desert rose, a naturally occurring phenomenon in the region. NMoQ is one of the most impressive architectural landmarks in the country, bringing to life Qatar’s past and shining a light on its present and future.

NMoQ- PRESENT
NMoQ- PAST
NMoQ- PRESENT
NMoQ- PRESENT

Old Sheikh’s Palace

Located within the premises of the National Museum of Qatar, the palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al-Thani was constructed in 1906 and has been restored several times since then.

Old Sheikh’s Palace- PRESENT
Old Sheikh’s Palace- PAST
Old Sheikh’s Palace- PRESENT
Old Sheikh’s Palace- PRESENT

Al Bidda Tower

The tower was part of an old fort in Al Bidda Park and has been reconstructed as part of the wider park’s restoration.

Al Bidda Tower- PRESENT
Al Bidda Tower- PAST
Al Bidda Tower- PRESENT
Al Bidda Tower- PRESENT

Doha Post Office

Doha’s first post office opened at the beginning of 1951 during the reign of Sheikh Ali Ben Abdullah Al Thani, and remains operational today. 

Doha Post Office- PRESENT
Doha Post Office- PAST
Doha Post Office- PRESENT
Doha Post Office- PRESENT

Central Bank

Originally known as Qatar Monetary Agency, Central Bank issued the Qatari Riyal, Qatar’s official currency.

Central Bank- PRESENT
Central Bank- PAST
Central Bank- PRESENT
Central Bank- PRESENT

Barzan Towers

Built by Sheikh Mohammed bin Jassim Al Thani, Barzan Tower has a distinctive T-shape, whereas the eastern tower, Al Burj Al Sharqi follows a classic rectangular shape. Barzan Towers are watchtowers built in the 19th century, and their name, “Barzan”, means “high place”.

Barzan Towers- PRESENT
Barzan Towers- PAST
Barzan Towers- PRESENT
Barzan Towers- PRESENT

Al Kahraba Street

Al Kahraba Street was the first street in Qatar to have electricity; the word “kahraba” means “electricity”. Now, the street is part of Msheireb Downtown Doha, the world’s first sustainable regeneration project, but maintains its original alignment.

Al Kahraba Street- PRESENT
Al Kahraba Street- PAST
Al Kahraba Street- PRESENT
Al Kahraba Street- PRESENT
Al Kahraba Street- PRESENT
Al Kahraba Street- PAST
Al Kahraba Street- PRESENT
Al Kahraba Street- PRESENT

Souq Waqif

One of the most popular attractions in Doha, Souq Waqif is a thriving market, home to souvenirs, handmade items, local products, cafes and restaurants. Souq Waqif was renovated in 2006.

Souq Waqif- PRESENT
Souq Waqif- PAST
Souq Waqif- PRESENT
Souq Waqif- PRESENT
Souq Waqif- PRESENT
Souq Waqif- PAST
Souq Waqif- PRESENT
Souq Waqif- PRESENT

Al Zubarah Fort

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al Zubarah Fort is a great example of a typical Arab fort used to ward off invaders.

Qatar National Library

Located in the heart of Education City, this diamond shaped building designed by Rem Koolhaas has hundreds of books and introduces cutting-edge learning facilities.

Qatar National Library- PRESENT
Qatar National Library- PAST
Qatar National Library- PRESENT
Qatar National Library- PRESENT

Oxygen Park

This 130,000 sqm park is a green lung located in Education City. Oxygen Park promotes a healthy lifestyle and invites residents and travellers to refresh their body and mind.

Oxygen Park- PRESENT
Oxygen Park- PAST
Oxygen Park- PRESENT
Oxygen Park- PRESENT

Continue to explore

Things to do

Qatar, then and now