‘Discover the Art of the Airport’ walking tour at HIA

The first-of-its-kind partnership between Discover Qatar, Hamad International Airport (HIA), and Qatar Museums has been unveiled for travelers using the renowned airport. Visitors to the "Discover the Art of the Airport" walking tour can take in stunning sculptures and art installations created by well-known artists from all around the world.

Remarkable works of art made by local, regional, and worldwide artists have been shown throughout HIA under the patronage of H E Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums. The Public Art Department of Qatar Museums has selected works of art that may be found throughout HIA. These pieces promote conversation and engagement with the public while also giving the open spaces of the airport character and personality.

One or more of the permanent installations at HIA, such as "Other Worlds" by American artist Tom Otterness, "Small Lie" by American artist KAWS, "Cosmos" by French artist Jean-Michel Othoniel, "A Message of Peace to the World" by Iraqi artist Ahmed Al Bahrani, and "Lamp Bear" by Swiss artist Urs Fischer, encourages passengers to communicate in the universal language of art, overcoming linguistic barriers and

Ahmad Musa Al Namla, CEO of Qatar Museums, stated that the "Discover the Art of the Airport" tour is a component of the organization's ambitious public art program, which is converting Qatar's urban and transportation areas into a sizable and approachable art museum. In the months leading up to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, the program will showcase more than 100 pieces of art. Through this trip, Qatar Museums is excited to give travelers a special opportunity to view the impressive collection of works by prominent local and international artists on display at HIA.

With the intention of integrating art into daily life, Qatar became one of the first Gulf nations to establish an extensive contemporary public art program, led by Qatar Museums. Approximately 70 pieces by more than 60 artists from Qatar, the Middle East, and other countries have been included in Qatar Museums' program thus far. To serve the local population and visitors, more than 40 new public artworks will be built in Qatar prior to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

A one-hour guided tour called "Discover the Art of the Airport" at HIA costs $10 per person. While being led by a Discover Qatar expert guide, visitors will learn about the history of each piece of art. It is advised that participants arrive at the Discover Qatar desk 30 minutes prior to their tour appointment and allow at least two hours for transit time at the airport.