Msheireb Properties, a subsidiary of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF), held a formal ceremony to mark the official opening of Msheireb Museums at Msheireb Properties’ flagship project, Msheireb Downtown Doha (MDD) – the world’s first sustainable downtown regeneration project, a brand new, cutting-edge development located in the heart of the capital.
The major milestone for the company was attended by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson, Msheireb Properties, Eng. Abdulla Hassan Al-Mehshadi, Chief Executive Officer, Msheireb Properties, and local dignitaries, VIP officials and guests of honour.
The opening of Msheireb Museums represents another key milestone in the development of MDD and marks the completion of the first phase of its Heritage Quarter. Consisting of four restored historical buildings, the Museums are part of the wider regeneration of the inner city to revive the old commercial center, recreating and modernising traditional Qatari life based on community, commerce and a sense of shared destiny.
A specialised team of leading local and international architects and experts have overseen the restoration and preservation of the four historical buildings. The Heritage Houses – commonly known as the Bin Jelmood House, Company House, Mohammed bin Jassim House and Radwani House – have been restored and converted into four culturally significant museums using carefully sourced materials that retain the spirit and building techniques of the original structures.
Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser commented, “Today Msheireb Downtown Doha enters a new chapter in its history, through which it will inspire young minds of the future with the wisdom and beauty of our past. With the opening of these museums, Msheireb reaches a milestone in fulfilling its vision of maintaining our unique architectural identity in Qatar, in a location that is set to be the vibrant heart of our capital.”
Eng. Abdulla Hassan Al-Mehshadi, Chief Executive Officer said, “We are delighted to have officially opened Msheireb Museums, and I would personally like to thank Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser for attending the opening ceremony. This is a highly significant moment for Msheireb Properties. The Msheireb Downtown Doha development is a testament to Msheireb’s commitment to Qatar and to its 2030 Vision. Through this development we are seeking to preserve Qatar’s rich past while shaping its identity as a modern, progressive nation and the restoration of the four heritage houses is integral to this aspiration. Together these museums will welcome local, regional and international exhibitions and house public educational and outreach programs – with a vision to becoming a learning tool for future generations. “
Al Mehshadi added, “The opening of Msheireb Museums is a very tangible milestone on our journey to delivering MDD, and will give the people of Doha their first major glimpse into the calibre and quality that will be exhibited throughout the development, which has been constructed according to the highest ethical standards and international best practice. I would like to thank each and every person who has given their best to make this project a success.”