The inception of the museum dates back to 1998, when Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani unveiled a structure to the public on his farm situated around 20 kilometers (12 miles) north of Doha, the capital of Qatar. Sheikh Faisal, a distant relative of Qatar’s ruling family, is the founder and chairman of Al Faisal Holdings, one of the country’s largest conglomerates. As a billionaire and esteemed figure in the realm of Arab business, he had already assembled a considerable private collection of significant regional artifacts and intriguing pieces that offer a close glimpse into Qatari history and lifestyle. In a 2018 interview with Qatari channel Alrayyan TV, Sheikh Faisal mentioned that the museum originated as a personal pastime. “I used to acquire items whenever possible,” he shared. “As my business flourished, so did my collections, leading to the accumulation of more and more items until I made the decision to showcase them in the museum for public enjoyment.” Over time, his personal assortment of curiosities has transformed into a sprawling 130-acre complex. Beyond the fortress-like entrance gate lies an oryx reserve, an impressive equestrian center with stables, a duck pond, and a mosque featuring an offbeat leaning minaret. The site now boasts a luxurious Marriott hotel, two cafes, and Zoufa restaurant offering modern Lebanese cuisine. Naturally, the highlight remains the expansive museum, recently expanded to include a car exhibition featuring vintage Rolls-Royces, wartime Jeeps, and vibrant Buicks. The lush grounds are home to wandering peacocks, with signs cautioning visitors about horses and ostriches. Guests at the FBQ museum are encouraged to explore freely, with the opportunity to interact with the horses in the stables. The museum’s eclectic offerings, including the vast collection of vintage and high-end automobiles, serve as a major draw for visitors. Mustafa Abumunes/AFP/Getty ImagesSiham Haleem, a seasoned private tour guide, notes the growing presence of world-class museums in modern Doha, with the National Museum of Qatar being a personal favorite. Despite the city’s evolving cultural landscape, Haleem emphasizes that a visit to Sheikh Faisal’s museum remains a must-do experience for all. “For those eager to delve into Qatar’s heritage and beyond, the museum is an ideal destination,” he asserts. “Personally, I am fascinated by the car collection, the fossils, and particularly the painstakingly reconstructed Syrian house.” Stephanie Y. Martinez, a Mexican-American student mobility manager at Texas A&M University in Qatar, includes the museum in all her student itineraries from the main campus in Texas. “The museum’s guided tours are comprehensive, and the diverse collections offer a myriad of stories waiting to be discovered,” she remarks. “Truly, there is something for everyone at the museum that will spark their interest. I particularly enjoy the
The museum’s collections are quite intriguing, especially considering that many items are displayed without any accompanying explanations. Despite its eclectic nature, it’s commendable to see Sheikh Faisal’s dedication in curating pieces that narrate the history of Qatar and the Middle East. Sarah Bayley, a visitor from the UK, recently explored the museum with her family, including teenagers aged 16 and 19, and was captivated by its unique charm. She described it as “amazing” and “crazy,” expressing her genuine admiration for the place. To stay updated with more CNN news and newsletters, sign up for an account on CNN.com.
