miss b loves ....... Doha, Qatar, a city of contrasts (Part 1)

Having read about the rapidly developing city of Doha, the capital of Qatar,  we decided to take a closer look as it's just a one hour flight from Dubai so ...... during our recent week in Dubai we headed over there ......

Qatar  is a constitutional monarchy ruled by the Al Thani family since the 19th century and it tops the list of the world's richest countries per capita by Forbes.

Urban development is more restrained than Dubai but it's an ambitious country and is due to host the 2022 World Cup. 

It's a fascinating, contradictory place with both traditional culture and futuristic buildings. The iconic Doha Tower (Burj Doha) was designed by renowned French architect Jean Nouvel ...... 

....and the beautiful, intricate façade was inspired by ancient Islamic screens .......

A quick tour of the Msheireb Enrichment Centre was a good starting point and gave us an insight into the history of Qatar ....

.......and its plans for the future. It's impressive that they are keen to retain their culture and traditions whilst at the same time embracing the modern world.

Wherever we went we received a warm welcome and as we strolled along the Corniche everyone we passed either greeted us with a 'Good Morning' or a wave!

Along this sweeping promenade with its palm trees and manicured lawns there are outdoor gyms ...

Now that's what I call a gym with a view!

Along the Corniche, walls are covered in colourful mosaics which depict Qatar's history, traditions and wildlife........

The traditional wooden fishing dhows set against the sparkling skyscrapers in West Bay was a photo opportunity not to be missed and sums up this city of contrasts .... where old and new blend together. The water really was this perfect turquoise!

The Museum of Islamic Art, located on its own man-made island on the waterfront, is a striking building designed by the world famous Chinese archtect IM Pei, who created the glass pyramid outside the Louvre in Paris.

The interior is truly stunning with a grand staircase and impressive atrium......

Several floors of exhibits, many priceless, span 1400 years of history from across the Middle East, Africa, Europe and Asia.......

We enjoyed a quick lunch in the MIA café by Alain Ducasse and what a view!

The café oozes with style ... from the cutlery to the chairs ...

On the top floor, the renowned French chef has opened a fine dining restaurant, called IDAM, serving French cuisine with an Arabic twist.

Outside there's a serene courtyard area with water features and more panoramic views of West Bay and the city ...........

Doha is certainly developing its reputation as a centre for art and culture.

Near to this museum, the Al Riwaq exhibition space was covered in Damian Hirst's famous multi-coloured spots design and inside his 'Relics' exhibition was due to open to the public the following day. 

The chair of the Qatar Museum Authorities, Sheikha Al-Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, the sister of the Emir, is keen to establish the country as a centre of excellence for art and has just been named the most powerful person in art(ArtReview Power List 2013) 

She has overseen the installation of a number of outdoor sculptures including the most recent(and the most controversial!) footballers on the Corniche which was previously outside the Pompidou Centre in Paris.....

The five metre bronze sculpture depicts Zinédine Zidane headbutting Italy's Marco Materazzi during the 2006 World Cup and it has already provoked much discussion and mixed reactions.

It has just apparently been removed having been criticised for glorifying violence. Others felt it captured the only negative moment in Zidane's otherwise exemplary career. Whatever your opinion, it does (did!) look striking against the backdrop of the sea.......

Please join me next time for Part 2 ...... a leisurely stroll around  the traditional souk and a shopping mall with a difference!