Al Shahaniya Museum | Shahaniya

Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum

Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum, commonly known as the FBQ Museum, is a privately owned museum situated in the Al Samriya area of Al Shahaniya, approximately 20 kilometers west of Doha, Qatar. Established in 1998 by Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani, the museum spans 530,000 square meters and comprises three main buildings.

Collections and Exhibits

The museum houses an extensive collection of over 15,000 artifacts, thoughtfully organized into several thematic sections:

Qatari Heritage: This section showcases traditional Qatari items, including tools used in pearl diving, models of dhows (traditional boats), and Bedouin handicrafts, offering insights into the country's rich cultural history.

Islamic Art: The museum features a diverse array of Islamic art, such as textiles, manuscripts, and paintings, reflecting the depth and breadth of Islamic heritage.

Coins and Currency: Exhibits in this section display ancient silver and gold coins from the pre-Islamic era to contemporary times, highlighting the evolution of currency in the region.

Vehicles: The museum boasts a remarkable collection of vehicles, including automobiles dating back to 1885, as well as various bicycles and motorcycles, illustrating the development of transportation over the years.

Additional Features

Beyond its impressive collections, the museum complex offers:

Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Mosque: Notable for its unique architecture, the mosque is intentionally tilted at a four-degree angle, reminiscent of the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Al Samriya Estate: The museum is part of a larger estate that includes a date farm, a riding school, and an oryx reserve dedicated to preserving Qatar's national animal, the Arabian oryx.

Visitor Information

Location: Al Samriya, Al Shahaniya, Qatar

Access: The museum is accessible via Dukhan Road, approximately a 40-minute drive from Doha.

Operating Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with variations during public holidays. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current information.

Admission Fees:

Adults: QR 50

Groups (10 or more): QR 35 per person

Students and Young Adults (13 to 22 years), Seniors (65 and above), Teachers, Museum Professionals, Culture Pass Plus, and Family Membership Holders: QR 30

Children under 12, International Council of Museums members, Visitors with disabilities and their caretakers, Press, and Tour Guides: Free

Additional Attractions in Al Shahaniya

While visiting the FBQ Museum, consider exploring other nearby attractions:

Al Shahaniya Camel Racetrack: Experience traditional camel racing, a sport deeply rooted in Qatari culture. Races are typically held every Friday from November through February.

Al Samriya Estate: Beyond the museum, the estate offers a glimpse into traditional Qatari life, with facilities like a date farm, riding school, and an oryx reserve aimed at preserving the endangered species, which is also Qatar’s national symbol.

Visiting the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum provides a profound insight into Qatar's heritage and the personal collection of one of its prominent figures, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.