Qatars Top Museums Go Online to Beat the Pandemic Lockdown

Doha, the capital of Qatar, better known for its petroleum-based commerce and futuristic buildings, is also home to some interesting museums. But like the rest of the world, it is also under lockdown to contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus, and people are barred from visiting the various attractions, including the museums. But now with the museums riding the digital platform you can not only go on virtual tours but also access many of the resources.

The International Committee of Museums (ICOM) has set the theme for this year&rsquos International Museum Day as Museums for Equality Diversity and Inclusion. Qatar&rsquos Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) is a perfect example. Take a virtual tour&nbspthrough the various galleries depicting the evolution of Islamic art between the 7^th and 19^th centuries as well as at some of the rare collections (of religious and secular objects), including manuscripts, ceramics, glass, metalwork, textiles, etc, collected from across the globe.

While you may not be able to see the Pearl Carpet of Baroda yet but there&rsquos nothing to stop you from catching a glimpse of this carpet embroidered with 1.5 million Gulf pearls and precious stones on an online journey&nbspthrough the Jean Nouvel-designed National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ). They are also running audience engagement programmes through their social media handles.

The Mathaf Arab Museum of Modern Art, which offers a comprehensive overview of modern and contemporary Arab Art, offers a peek into its collection here.