Q. Why do you think these gifts/donations are so valuable to Qatar Museums?
Mr Mohammed Saad Al Rumaihi: Gifts, art and objects are very valuable to Qatar Museums because they help preserve and enrich the nation’s cultural heritage. These donations allow the museums to expand their collections with authentic pieces that reflect the history, traditions, and daily life of the Qatari people. They also encourage community participation by involving individuals and families in preserving the country’s story.
Q. How have these gifts shaped your museum’s collection and contributed to its growth over the years?
Mr Al Rumaihi: These gifts have significantly shaped Qatar Museums’ collections by adding unique and authentic pieces that deepen the cultural and historical narrative of the institution. They have enriched the museums with diverse artefacts, artworks, and heritage items that reflect Qatar’s identity and traditions.
Qatar Museums has sought to enhance community participation in shaping its collections through various initiatives, most notably the Mal Awal exhibitions. This exhibition, in its various editions, offered individuals the opportunity to showcase their heritage and art objects for the first time, revealing a strong passion within the community for collecting historical and creative pieces. This approach continued with Mal Awal 4, dedicated to 1990s video games, which provided a platform to display rare and highly sought-after collections, further expanding community engagement and strengthening its role in enriching the nation’s cultural narrative.
This approach has also been extended to future projects such as the Qatar Auto Museum, a national platform for enthusiasts of classic and unique cars.
Over the years, such donations have allowed the museums to expand their exhibitions, offer richer storytelling, and present a more comprehensive view of the nation’s past and present.
Q. In your view, how does this project enrich Qatar’s cultural heritage and contribute to building a stronger culture of giving in Qatar?
Mr Al Rumaihi: It creates a shared sense of ownership and pride in Qatar’s heritage. Moreover, the project promotes a culture of giving by emphasising the importance of donations as a means of supporting cultural preservation. This inspires more people to participate, strengthens community engagement, and ensures that Qatar’s cultural legacy is preserved and passed on to future generations.
Q. How do donations to Qatar Museums enhance the experience for visitors and the wider community?
Mr Al Rumaihi: These contributions allow museums to present more diverse and engaging exhibitions, creating a richer and more immersive experience for visitors. For the wider community, donations foster a sense of shared heritage and pride, encouraging greater participation in cultural life. They also support educational programmes, workshops, and events that make art and history more accessible, strengthening the connection between the public and Qatar’s cultural identity.
Q. How do you personally build and maintain meaningful relationships with donors?
Al Rumaihi: Build and maintain meaningful relationships with donors by fostering trust, open communication, and mutual respect. I ensure that I understand their interests and motivations, showing appreciation for their contributions and explaining how their donations have a tangible impact on preserving and promoting Qatar’s cultural heritage. Invite them to special events, and opportunities to engage directly with the museum’s work helps to strengthen the connection.
Q. What makes a donor’s journey with Qatar Museums feel special?
Mr Al Rumaihi: A donor’s journey with Qatar Museums feels special because it goes beyond a simple act of giving—it becomes a shared cultural experience and a meaningful partnership. Donors are treated as valued members of the museum’s community, with opportunities to engage directly through exclusive events, behind‑the‑scenes access, and personal updates on how their contributions are making an impact. This connection allows them to see firsthand how their support preserves heritage, inspires creativity, and enriches the cultural life of Qatar. The sense of belonging, recognition, and shared purpose makes their journey truly unique and rewarding.
On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the National Museum of Qatar, this milestone provided a perfect opportunity to honour the donors who contributed to enriching the museum’s collections, and to personally thank them for their support—whether through donations of artworks and artefacts or by providing information that enhanced the cultural narrative and exhibitions.
Q. What do you think about the new ways of acknowledging and celebrating donors, and what positive effects have you observed so far?
Mr Al Rumaihi: I believe that new ways of acknowledging and celebrating donors are highly valuable because they create a deeper sense of connection and appreciation. Personalised recognition. makes donors feel valued and part of the museum’s mission. These approaches not only strengthen relationships but also encourage continued support and inspire others to give. So far, I have observed that such initiatives increase donor engagement, foster loyalty, and build a stronger culture of giving, while also enhancing the visibility and reputation of Qatar Museums within the community.
Q. What would you say to someone who is considering donating but feels unsure about it?
Mr Al Rumaihi: I would tell them that donating to Qatar Museums is more than just giving—it’s an opportunity to be part of preserving and celebrating Qatar’s cultural heritage for future generations. Every contribution, whether big or small, has a lasting impact by helping to enrich collections, support exhibitions, and create educational programmes for the community. I would also assure them that their donation will be treated with respect and transparency, and that they will be recognised as a valued partner in the museum’s mission. Ultimately, donating is a meaningful way to leave a legacy and make a positive difference in the cultural life of Qatar.
Q. How do you see Qatar Museums’ role in building a sustainable culture of giving?
Mr Al Rumaihi: I believe Qatar Museums plays a role that goes beyond collecting objects; it is actively helping to build a sustainable ecosystem for cultural giving. We work to reinforce the idea that supporting art and heritage is a shared social responsibility rather than a temporary initiative. This includes creating programmes that enable donors—both individuals and institutions—to participate continuously in projects that preserve cultural identity and nurture national creativity. This vision ensures that cultural giving becomes a lasting part of the fabric of Qatari society.
Q. What role can technology play in enhancing the donor and community experience?
Mr Al Rumaihi: Technology opens new avenues for engagement with donors and the wider community. Through digital platforms, we can offer personalised experiences that clearly demonstrate the impact of donations with greater transparency and interactivity. Modern tools—such as digital storytelling, virtual tours, and the Online Collection platform—enable us to reach a broader audience worldwide, thereby strengthening Qatar Museums’ digital presence and making the act of giving more accessible and inclusive.
At the same time, we prioritise the professional conservation and preservation of all collections, ensuring their safety and sustainability for future generations.
Q. How can Qatar Museums strengthen collaboration with local and international institutions in this area?
Mr Al Rumaihi: We are expanding our network of partnerships with cultural and educational institutions both in Qatar and abroad to promote a culture of giving and to exchange expertise. Collaborating with international organisations introduces new learning opportunities and allows us to explore innovative ways to honour and engage donors. It also supports the development of global standards in donation management and collection care, reinforcing Qatar Museums’ position as a leading institution in the region.
Q. Looking ahead, what are your hopes for this programme, and are there any new directions you would like to see?
Mr Al Rumaihi: My hope for this programme is that it continues to grow as a powerful platform for preserving Qatar’s cultural heritage while inspiring a strong culture of giving. I wish to see it expand its reach by engaging more diverse communities, including youth and emerging artists, to create a deeper sense of shared ownership and participation. I would also like to see the programme explore innovative approaches, such as digital engagement, storytelling initiatives, and interactive donor experiences, to make the process of giving even more meaningful. Ultimately, I hope it becomes a lasting legacy that strengthens both Qatar Museums and the spirit of generosity in the wider community.
