Two major exhibitions celebrating the art and heritage of Uzbekistan are coming to the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha in late 2026. Uzbekistan: Heritage in Motion runs from 3 September to 28 November 2026, while Ektashif: Uzbekistan runs from 3 September to 24 November 2026. Both take place at the Museum of Islamic Art, off Al Corniche Street.
Here's everything you need to know about the Uzbekistan exhibitions in Doha: Heritage in Motion and Ektashif dates and locations, plus opening hours, tickets and how to get there for both shows this autumn.
Uzbekistan exhibitions in Doha at a glance
Both exhibitions are hosted under one roof at the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), the landmark building on the Corniche designed by I. M. Pei. Here's the quick version before we go deeper:
- Uzbekistan: Heritage in Motion — 3 September to 28 November 2026, Sheikh Saoud Al Thani Temporary Exhibitions Gallery, first floor.
- Ektashif: Uzbekistan — 3 September to 24 November 2026, Fourth Floor West Side Gallery.
- Venue — Museum of Islamic Art, off Al Corniche Street, Doha.
Because the two exhibitions overlap for most of their run, you can comfortably see both in a single visit — just plan a little extra time to move between the first and fourth floors.
Uzbekistan: Heritage in Motion — dates and location
Uzbekistan: Heritage in Motion is the headline showcase, open from 3 September to 28 November 2026. You'll find it in the Sheikh Saoud Al Thani Temporary Exhibitions Gallery on the first floor of the Museum of Islamic Art.
This is MIA's main temporary exhibition space, where the museum stages its most ambitious international shows. The exhibition explores the rich cultural heritage of Uzbekistan — a country at the heart of the historic Silk Road — through art, craftsmanship and objects that trace the movement of ideas, trade and design across Central Asia. Expect a journey through centuries of Uzbek creativity, from Samarkand and Bukhara to the wider Islamic world.
Since this is the flagship gallery, give yourself a good hour or more to take it in properly. It suits everyone from serious art lovers to families looking for an engaging afternoon.
Ektashif: Uzbekistan — dates and location
Ektashif: Uzbekistan closes a little earlier, running from 3 September to 24 November 2026. You'll find it in the Fourth Floor West Side Gallery of the Museum of Islamic Art.
What Ektashif is about
Ektashif is MIA's ongoing learning-focused programme, designed to help visitors — especially younger ones and families — explore a theme in a hands-on, interactive way. Think interactive displays, guided discovery trails and object-based activities rather than framed pieces behind glass. This edition turns the spotlight on Uzbekistan, complementing the main Heritage in Motion exhibition with a more discovery-led experience. It's a great add-on for families with children, school groups or anyone who enjoys a more interactive style of museum visit.
Because it closes a few days before Heritage in Motion, note the 24 November 2026 end date if Ektashif is your main reason for going.
Museum of Islamic Art opening hours
Plan your visit around the museum's regular opening hours:
- Saturday to Tuesday: 9am to 7pm
- Wednesday: closed
- Thursday: 9am to 9pm
- Friday: 1:30pm to 7pm
Thursday is your best bet if you want a longer evening visit, with doors open until 9pm. On Fridays, the museum opens in the afternoon at 1:30pm, so plan accordingly. Remember that the museum is closed on Wednesdays, so don't build a mid-week trip around that day.
Tickets and fees
The Museum of Islamic Art is one of Doha's flagship cultural institutions, and general museum entry has been free for residents and visitors. No exhibition-specific fee has been confirmed for either show, but we recommend checking the Museum of Islamic Art website before your visit, as special exhibitions occasionally carry a charge.
Either way, it's one of the best-value cultural outings in Doha, especially for families.
How to get to the Museum of Islamic Art
MIA sits on its own island at the southern end of the Corniche, off Al Corniche Street, with sweeping views back towards the West Bay skyline. Getting there is easy however you travel.
By Doha Metro
The nearest Doha Metro stop is Souq Waqif station on the Gold Line, a short Karwa taxi or ride-hailing trip from the museum entrance. The Metro is an affordable, air-conditioned option, especially handy during the warmer months.
By car or Karwa taxi
If you're driving, there's parking near the museum, and the MIA Park entrance makes it easy to combine your visit with a stroll along the waterfront. A Karwa taxi or ride-hailing trip from West Bay, The Pearl or Msheireb is quick and straightforward — just ask for the Museum of Islamic Art, off the Corniche.
Tips for your visit
- See both in one trip: since the exhibitions overlap, visit before 24 November 2026 to catch Ektashif and Heritage in Motion together.
- Go on a Thursday evening: the extended hours until 9pm make for a relaxed, cooler visit.
- Avoid Wednesday: the museum is closed that day.
- Combine with MIA Park: the surrounding park, cafés and waterfront views are perfect before or after the galleries.
- Bring the family: Ektashif's interactive format is especially good for children.
- Allow enough time: set aside at least two hours if you want to enjoy both exhibitions without rushing.
Doha's cultural calendar is packed all year round, and these two Uzbekistan exhibitions are a highlight for anyone interested in Islamic art, Central Asian heritage and the story of the Silk Road. Browse more things to do in Doha on Qatar Living or explore cultural events and exhibitions across the city.
FAQs
When do the Uzbekistan exhibitions in Doha take place?
Uzbekistan: Heritage in Motion runs from 3 September to 28 November 2026, and Ektashif: Uzbekistan runs from 3 September to 24 November 2026, both at the Museum of Islamic Art.
Where are the exhibitions located?
Heritage in Motion is in the Sheikh Saoud Al Thani Temporary Exhibitions Gallery on the first floor, while Ektashif: Uzbekistan is in the Fourth Floor West Side Gallery — both inside the Museum of Islamic Art, off Al Corniche Street in Doha.
What are the Museum of Islamic Art's opening hours?
The museum is open Saturday to Tuesday from 9am to 7pm, Thursday from 9am to 9pm, and Friday from 1:30pm to 7pm. It is closed on Wednesdays.
Is there an entry fee for the Uzbekistan exhibitions?
No exhibition-specific fee has been confirmed, and general museum entry has been free. It's still worth checking the latest ticketing information on the Museum of Islamic Art website before your visit.
Can I see both exhibitions in one visit?
Yes. The two exhibitions overlap for most of their run, so you can see both in a single trip — just visit before 24 November 2026, when Ektashif closes, and allow around two hours to enjoy both.
How do I get to the Museum of Islamic Art?
You can reach MIA via Souq Waqif station on the Gold Line plus a short Karwa taxi ride, or by car with parking nearby. It sits off Al Corniche Street at the southern end of the Corniche, an easy trip from West Bay, The Pearl or Msheireb.
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