Qatar’s art scene is rapidly emerging as one of the most exciting in the world, with institutions like Qatar Museums, the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) and major events such as Art Basel Qatar drawing international attention.
Amid this cultural rise, one story has touched hearts across Qatar and beyond: the journey of Abdelrahman Hussein, a Kenyan visual artist and security guard at the National Museum of Qatar, whose talent was recently highlighted on social media by Qatar Museums Chairperson Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani.
This is more than a viral moment. It is a powerful example of how Qatar’s creative ecosystem is opening doors for emerging artists, migrant workers and hidden talents.
Who is Abdelrahman Hussein?
Abdelrahman Hussein grew up in a community where art was neither widely appreciated nor encouraged. What started as childhood sketches slowly grew into a deep passion for drawing and visual storytelling.
In 2021, he moved from Kenya to Qatar in search of better opportunities and began working as a security guard at the National Museum of Qatar. While his job description focused on safety and visitor experience, the museum itself became something much more meaningful to him, a living classroom filled with history, creativity and culture.
Surrounded daily by Qatari heritage objects, architecture and exhibitions, Abdelrahman continued to refine his skills as a self-taught visual artist. His story reflects a growing trend of emerging artists in Qatar who develop their craft while working full-time in other sectors.
The Viral Moment: From Museum Floor to Sheikha Al Mayassa’s Feed
Abdelrahman’s life changed when his artistic talent caught the attention of the leadership at Qatar Museums.
He created a personal artwork for the museum’s CEO, an experience that strengthened his belief that art can transcend job titles, social status and nationality. Soon after, Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums, shared his story and photo on social media, praising his talent and describing him as a “newest talent discovery” at the National Museum of Qatar.
Qatar as a Global Hub for Art and Culture
Abdelrahman’s story doesn’t stand alone; it’s part of a bigger transformation. Over the last decade, Qatar has invested heavily in becoming a global cultural hub, led in large part by the vision of Sheikha Al Mayassa, who oversees Qatar Museums, Doha Film Institute and other cultural initiatives.
Key developments shaping the Qatar art scene include:
- World-class museums like the National Museum of Qatar and Museum of Islamic Art
- Artist-in-residence programmes at spaces such as the Fire Station, supporting local and regional artists in Doha
- Major upcoming events such as Art Basel Qatar 2026 and the growing Qatar International Art Festival (QIAF), which attract galleries, collectors and creatives from around the world
Art as a Voice, Refuge and Contribution
For Abdelrahman, art is not just a hobby or career; it is his voice and refuge.
Working long shifts as a security guard, he still dedicates his personal time to creating illustrations and artworks inspired by his experiences in Qatar and his roots in Kenya. His journey speaks directly to people searching for:
- “how to become an artist while working full time”
- “self-taught artist success stories”
- “inspiring migrant worker stories in Qatar”
His message is simple yet powerful: no matter your background or job title, your creativity is valid and in the right environment, it can be recognised at the highest levels.
Why This Story Matters for Qatar’s Creative Economy
Abdelrahman’s rise from security guard to recognised artist highlights some important themes for Qatar’s creative future:
- Talent can come from anywhere
Qatar’s museums, galleries and cultural institutions are increasingly becoming spaces where staff, visitors and residents can all participate in creativity – not just observe it. - Qatar Museums as a platform for emerging artists
By sharing Abdelrahman’s story, Sheikha Al Mayassa demonstrated how institutional platforms can amplify under-represented voices and inspire a new generation of emerging artists in Qatar. - Positive global image of Qatar
Stories like this support trending topics such as “Qatar soft power through culture” and “Qatar’s thriving art scene”, positioning the country as a place where art and opportunity intersect. - Role models for young creatives
For young residents and expatriates, Abdelrahman is living proof that their artistic dreams are possible in Qatar’s growing creative economy.
How Emerging Artists in Qatar Can Follow a Similar Path
For readers searching “how to get noticed as an artist in Qatar” or “where to showcase art in Doha,” here are some practical starting points:
- Visit and engage with Qatar Museums spaces such as the National Museum of Qatar, Museum of Islamic Art, and Fire Station – Artist in Residence.
- Apply for residency or open-call programmes that support local and resident artists in Qatar.
Share your work on social media, using hashtags like #QatarArt, #DohaArtists, #QatarMuseums, and tagging relevant institutions when appropriate.
Participate in local art festivals and community exhibitions, which are increasingly highlighted in coverage of Qatar’s art season.
The story of Abdelrahman Hussein is more than an uplifting Instagram post. It symbolises what the Qatar art scene stands for today: opportunity, diversity and the belief that creativity can emerge from any corner of society.
In a country positioning itself as a global cultural hub, supported by visionary leaders like Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani, stories like Abdelrahman’s show how art can change lives and how Qatar’s museums and galleries are becoming spaces where talent is not only displayed, but discovered.
