Bring your family to one of Doha’s most meaningful cultural experiences this May. The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) invites families to a free, interactive Family Day: Exploring Hajj – Traditions, Art, and Legacy on 9 May 2026, celebrating the spiritual, cultural, and artistic heritage of the sacred Islamic pilgrimage.
Held in the stunning MIA Atrium, this hands-on programme offers children and parents a chance to learn, create, and connect through the timeless story of Hajj.
Event Overview
Event: Family Day – Exploring Hajj: Traditions, Art, and Legacy Date: Saturday, 9 May 2026 Time: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM Venue: MIA Atrium, Museum of Islamic Art, Doha Languages: Arabic and English Entry: Free :no registration required
About the Family Day Programme
This engaging family event is designed to help visitors of all ages explore the rich traditions, artistic expressions, and cultural legacy of Hajj, one of the Five Pillars of Islam and a defining journey for millions of Muslims around the world.
Through a carefully curated series of hands-on educational activities, families will discover:
- The rituals and history behind the sacred pilgrimage
- How Hajj has been represented in Islamic art across centuries
- The cultural and spiritual significance of the journey to Makkah
- Traditional crafts, storytelling, and interactive workshops suitable for children
Whether your children are learning about Hajj for the first time or deepening existing knowledge, the programme creates a welcoming and educational atmosphere that sparks curiosity and meaningful conversation.
Why Attend the MIA Family Day?
The Museum of Islamic Art is one of the leading cultural institutions in the Middle East, and its family programmes are designed to be inclusive, accessible, and enriching. Here’s what makes this event special:
- Completely free with no booking or tickets required
- Bilingual experience in Arabic and English – ideal for Qatar’s diverse community
- Hands-on activities that engage children creatively and educationally
- Cultural depth rooted in Islamic heritage and artistic tradition
- Iconic venue : the MIA Atrium, a masterpiece of architecture designed by I.M. Pei
- Ideal weekend outing combining learning, art, and family bonding
What to Expect at the MIA Atrium
The MIA Atrium serves as the perfect backdrop for this cultural celebration. Its soaring architecture and natural light create an inspiring space for interactive learning. Expect activity stations, creative crafts, storytelling corners, and educational displays that bring the story of Hajj to life for all ages.
Families can move freely through the programme at their own pace during the two-hour event window.
Plan Your Visit to the Museum of Islamic Art
Location
Museum of Islamic Art Off Al Corniche Street Doha, Qatar 📍 Find us on Google Maps
Museum Opening Hours
- Saturday, Sunday, Monday, Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 1:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Contact
📞 +974 4422 4444
Tips for Families Attending the Event
Make the most of your visit with these simple tips:
- Arrive 15–20 minutes early to settle in and explore the atrium
- Dress comfortably : you’ll be moving between activity stations
- Bring a reusable water bottle for the kids
- Plan time before or after to explore MIA’s permanent galleries
- Visit MIA Park next door for a picnic or stroll along the Corniche
- Take photos : the MIA Atrium is one of the most photogenic spots in Doha
Extend Your Cultural Day Out
After the Family Day programme, continue the experience with more Doha highlights:
- Explore MIA’s permanent collection featuring over 1,400 years of Islamic art
- Enjoy a meal at one of the museum’s cafés or restaurants
- Walk or bike along the scenic Doha Corniche
- Visit nearby MIA Park for outdoor family fun
- Discover the Flag Plaza and waterfront views
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the MIA Family Day on Hajj really free? Yes, the event is completely free and open to the public. No registration or tickets are required.
Do I need to book in advance? No advance booking is necessary. Simply arrive at the MIA Atrium during the event window.
What ages is the programme suitable for? The Family Day is designed for all ages, with activities particularly engaging for children aged 4–12 and their parents or guardians.
Is the event conducted in English or Arabic? Both. The programme is bilingual, making it accessible to Qatar’s diverse local and expatriate community.
How long does the event last? The programme runs from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM, and families can join at any point during that window.
Is parking available at the Museum of Islamic Art? Yes, MIA offers dedicated visitor parking on-site.
Can I visit other parts of the museum after the event? Absolutely. The Museum of Islamic Art is open until 7:00 PM on Saturdays, so you can explore the galleries after the programme ends.
Don’t Miss This Meaningful Family Experience
The Family Day: Exploring Hajj – Traditions, Art, and Legacy is more than an event – it’s an opportunity to connect with one of the most profound journeys in Islamic tradition through creativity, learning, and shared family time. With free entry, bilingual programming, and the iconic setting of the Museum of Islamic Art, it’s a must-visit cultural experience in Doha this May.
Save the date: Saturday, 9 May 2026 | 2:30 – 4:30 PM | MIA Atrium
Event details are subject to change. For the latest updates, visit the Museum of Islamic Art’s official website or contact +974 4422 4444.
