#Qatar #Doha #Art Basel #Galleries

Art Basel Qatar to Debut with 87 Galleries

Art Basel Qatar is set to make its grand debut in February 2026, offering an exciting lineup of art from 87 galleries and showcasing 84 artist presentations. This inaugural fair, which will take place in Doha from February 5-7, 2026, with preview days on February 3-4, is designed to highlight the diverse artistic expressions from both the region and international artists.

In collaboration with Qatar Sports Investments and QC+, this fair marks the fifth global location of Art Basel, strengthening the vibrant art scene in the Middle East. A total of 31 countries are represented, with 16 galleries participating for the first time, bringing fresh perspectives to the event.

The curatorial direction for the exhibition is led by celebrated artist Wael Shawky, who aims to deviate from traditional gallery models. The event will utilize an open exhibition format that prompts artistic responses to the central theme, 'Becoming'. This theme will serve as a reflection on humanity's continuous evolution and the systems that shape our beliefs and the meanings we give to our experiences.

This unique exhibition will take place in two key locations within Doha: M7 and the Doha Design District, along with selected public spaces in Msheireb Downtown Doha, the city’s creative hub. The layout and curatorial theme are crafted to enhance storytelling and dialogues, providing ample opportunities for galleries, artists, and collectors to engage meaningfully, while retaining significant relevance in the market.

Art Basel Qatar, with Visit Qatar as its lead partner, will serve as a showcase of the artistic vitality and the expanding gallery landscape throughout the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. The strong representation of local artists—more than half of whom hail from the region—affirms Doha's role as a vibrant center for cultural exchange. Notable artists such as Etel Adnan, Ali Banisadr, Simone Fattal, Ali Cherri, Meriem Bennani, and Iman Issa will be among those featured.

The event will also include galleries from various Gulf nations (Qatar, UAE, Saudi Arabia), the wider Middle East (Lebanon, Turkey), North Africa (Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia), and South Asia (India). Several local galleries will make their debut at Art Basel, including Hafez Gallery from Jeddah and Riyadh, Gallery Misr from Cairo, Le Violon Bleu from Tunis, Saleh Barakat Gallery from Beirut, and Tabari Artspace from Dubai.

In addition to regional presences, internationally acclaimed galleries from Europe, America, and Asia will also join the inaugural exhibition. Art Basel Qatar has confirmed participation from notable names, including Acquavella Galleries, Gagosian, Hauser & Wirth, Pace Gallery, David Zwirner, and White Cube.

This exciting event not only emphasizes the richness of the regional art scene but also connects local artists with Art Basel's global network of galleries, artists, and collectors, fostering a unique dialogue that bridges cultural gaps. The complete list of participating galleries can be found at artbasel.com/qatar/galleries.

As Art Basel Qatar moves closer, anticipation for this cultural milestone grows, paving the way for a vibrant celebration of art and creativity in one of the world’s most dynamic cities. The partnership with Qatar Airways and BMW further establishes this event as a pivotal moment in the international art calendar.