ArtDayME: Design Doha Biennial 2026 has officially opened, with Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums, leading the inauguration. The second edition brings together designers, craftspeople and creative practitioners from across the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia and beyond, celebrating the region’s creative talent and exploring the relationship between cultural heritage, traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design.

Running until 31 January 2027, the biennial features 20 exhibitions, newly commissioned works, five public design installations and a diverse programme of cultural events.

The historic neighbourhood of Fereej Al Asmakh serves as the main hub for this year’s edition, with traditional houses and streets transformed into spaces for design, craft and creative exchange. The headline exhibition, Arab Design Now 2026, is presented at Msheireb Downtown Doha.

Curated by Noura Al Sayeh, Arab Design Now 2026 brings together 81 designers, craftspeople and makers, featuring 78 newly commissioned works and 17 specially commissioned films. Organised around five themes, the exhibition explores how traditional skills and knowledge continue to shape contemporary design.

Other highlights include projects celebrating Palestinian craft traditions, exploring innovative materials and rethinking architecture and urban spaces. Five new public design commissions in Fereej Al Asmakh explore themes of shade, water, cooling and shared community spaces.

Through its exhibitions, installations and public programmes, Design Doha Biennial 2026 highlights the creative potential of the region while examining how knowledge and skills passed down through generations can inform the future of design. The biennial runs until 31 January 2027, with events and exhibitions taking place across Doha.

Photos credit: Design Doha Biennial