The Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, Qatar is a feast for the eyes! Designed by the renowned architect I. M Pei the museum is made out of limestone and influenced by the Ibn Tulun Mosque in Cairo.

The MIA consists of a main building, adjacent education center and a courtyard. I love exploring food choices in every museum I visit and this one has a MIA Café design by the French designer/architect Philippe Starck and a 5 star dining venue created by super chef Alain Ducasse called the IDAM.

The IDAM restaurant is situated on top level of the MIA with a view of the Doha Skyline. The food, presentation and service are amazing. Every attention to detail has been thought of with a mix of French & Arabic cuisine. Most of the food is locally sourced, this is Haute Cuisine at its best. Not your typical museum fare. The IDAM is Alain Ducasse’s first restaurant in the Middle East. The black & white custom carpet with Arabic writing is unique and depicts words that describe hospitality. The menu consists of local items such as camel and alcoholic beverages are not served. There are various fresh juices and mock cocktails.

What I admire about this museum is that it is interactive, besides the exhibitions and permanent collections that feature ceramics, glass, metal works, manuscripts and textiles the educational center is a forum for students, adults and educators to learn about art, the region and culture.

The MIA Park hosts music such as Jazz & Arabic. Further, there are fitness classes such as Paddle fit and a guided Kayaking tour around the MIA & Dhow Harbor. There is a great deal to explore at the Museum of Islamic Art that allows one to take in the Culture of Qatar in Doha! A must if you are planning a trip to Doha in the near future.