Doha, Qatar, 23 August 2026 – Qatar Museums (QM) has announced the appointment of the new Board of ICOM Qatar, the country’s National Committee of the International Council of Museums, for the 2026–2028 term.
Established in 1946, the International Council of Museums (ICOM) is the world’s leading organisation representing museums and museum professionals. Through a network of more than 57,000 members across more than 130 countries and territories, it promotes international cooperation, professional development and the protection and advancement of cultural heritage.
ICOM Qatar connects museum and heritage professionals in Qatar with ICOM’s international network. With Qatar Museums playing a central role in supporting the country’s museum sector and its global engagement, Qatar’s National Committee creates opportunities for professional exchange, capacity building and collaboration in line with international standards and best practices.
The newly appointed Board is chaired by Sheikh Abdulaziz Al Thani, Director of the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ), with Dr. Fatema Hassan Al Sulaiti, Director of International Cooperation and Government Affairs at Qatar Museums, serving as Vice-Chair. Board members include Shaikha Al Nassr, Director of the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA); Aisha Ghanem Al Attiya, Director of Cultural Diplomacy; Zeina Arida, Director of Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art; Abdulla Al Naama, Director General of Msheireb Museums; and Saeed Ali Al Shawi, Director of Information Technology at QM. Dr. Rashid Malheya, Head of International Relations at QM, has been appointed Secretary, while Maryam Al Suwaidi, Head of Cash Management at QM, will serve as Treasurer.
Sheikh Abdulaziz Al Thani, Chair of ICOM Qatar, commented: “It is a privilege to chair ICOM Qatar at a time when museums are playing an increasingly important role as spaces for knowledge, dialogue and connection. Together with the new board, I look forward to advancing the National Committee’s work and championing the value of museums as places that inspire learning, foster understanding and enrich communities.”
Dr. Fatema Hassan Al Sulaiti, Vice-Chair of ICOM Qatar, added:
“It is both an honour and a responsibility to help shape this new chapter for ICOM Qatar. We are committed to strengthening international cooperation and supporting the professional development of museum and heritage professionals, while creating new opportunities for knowledge exchange. I look forward to working with the new board to advance ICOM’s mission and deepen Qatar’s connections with the global museum community.”
Building on the progress of the previous board, the new leadership will broaden professional engagement and support initiatives contributing to the preservation, interpretation and promotion of cultural heritage. It will also work closely with Qatar Museums, cultural institutions, government entities and international partners to further advance ICOM’s mission.
During the 2026–2028 term, the new board will champion initiatives that support professional growth, encourage cross-sector collaboration, and enhance the impact of museums as spaces for learning, dialogue, and cultural exchange.
For more information, visit icom.org.qa or follow @icomqatar on Instagram.
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