MIA Park, Doha

Overview

MIA Park is the large waterfront park that surrounds the Museum of Islamic Art at the eastern end of the Corniche. It curves out into Doha Bay in a crescent, so almost every path has a view of the water or the West Bay towers. The park is open 24 hours a day and entry is free. You will find lawns, shaded walkways, a café, three children's playgrounds and Richard Serra's steel sculpture 7 at the tip of the promenade.

Go for a sunset walk, a picnic or a morning jog. Families like it for the playgrounds and open grass, and photographers come for the skyline at dusk. In the cooler months the park runs weekend markets, concerts and outdoor events. It pairs well with a visit to the museum next door, and Souq Waqif and the Mina District are a short taxi ride or a long walk away.

History and background

The park was planned as part of the Museum of Islamic Art complex. The museum's architect, I. M. Pei, placed his building on its own island off the Corniche, and the land around it became a public park. The landscape was designed by Pei Partnership Architects of New York, and the park opened on 16 December 2011. It covers roughly 28 hectares on a crescent of reclaimed land.

Pei recommended the American sculptor Richard Serra for a public artwork at the end of the promenade. The result, 7, was finished in 2011 and was Serra's first public work in the Middle East. It is made of seven tall steel plates; the number seven has special meaning in Islamic tradition.

Since then the park has become one of Doha's main outdoor gathering places. A twice-weekly bazaar started in 2016, paused during the pandemic and returned in 2023. In April 2025, Qatar Museums added a new work, Privileged Points, by the artist Nairy Baghramian.

What to see at MIA Park

1. 7 by Richard Serra

   Walk to the end of the long promenade to reach Serra's tower of seven steel plates, facing the sea. Step inside the open base and look up. It is one of Doha's most photographed public artworks.

2. West Bay skyline views

   The park faces the West Bay towers across the water. The view is best from late afternoon, when the buildings catch the low sun, and again after dark when the skyline lights up.

3. Playgrounds

   There are three playgrounds for different age groups, for children aged roughly 2 to 16. Children under 10 need adult supervision. Bicycles and smoking are not allowed in the play areas.

4. Park café and picnics

   The Park Café serves sandwiches, salads and pastries with views towards West Bay. Many visitors bring a blanket and a picnic instead and settle on the lawns.

5. Weekend markets and events

   In the cooler season the park hosts a weekend bazaar, live music, film screenings, sports sessions and art workshops. Dates change each season, so check the museum's website or social media.

6. Privileged Points by Nairy Baghramian

   This sculpture installation was unveiled in April 2025. It is one of the newer additions to the growing collection of public art around the museum and along the Corniche.

7. Kayaking and cycling

   Guided kayaking tours and fitness sessions run in the park, and bicycles can be rented for adults and children. Availability varies by season, so check on the day.

How to get to MIA Park

Tips for your visit

• Arrive an hour before sunset for the best skyline light and a cooler walk.
• In summer, visit early in the morning or after dark; there is little shade on the promenade.
• Swimming, fishing, barbecues, open fires and pets are not allowed.
• The walk to the Serra sculpture and back takes time; wear comfortable shoes.
• Pair the park with the Museum of Islamic Art, which is closed on Wednesdays.
• Weekend evenings in winter are busy; weekday evenings are calmer.

Facilities

Frequently asked questions