Toward Sustainable Tourism in Qatar: Msheireb Downtown Doha as a Case Study

Mariam I Al-Hammadi

doi:10.3389/frsc.2021.799208

Abstract

Qatar has developed a strategy of sustainable tourism and development, which focuses on highlighting the spirit of the Qatari identity and heritage. This strategy goes hand in hand together with the line of the Qatar National Vision 2030. Hence, Msheireb Properties, which is a real estate development company and a subsidiary of Qatar Foundation, focuses in developing a sustainable tourism strategy. Thus, Qatari cultural heritage presented in the heart of the post-modern futuristic city of Msheireb through the project of Msheireb Museums that are hosted in four traditional houses. Msheireb Properties renovated the four houses in a sustainable way that aimed to create a dynamic relationship between tourism and cultural heritage. Msheireb Properties preserved models of traditional architecture through the establishment of Msheireb Museums. This article discusses the development of sustainable tourism in Qatar and the preservation of the Qatari cultural heritage and identity through the story of two museums in Msheireb, the Radwani House Museum and the Company House Museum.

Highlights

The relationship between the past and the present is vital, as the past is an integral tool for building both the present and the future
Attempts to preserve the cultural heritage of nations vary, as some societies try to highlight their cultural uniqueness from others (Al-Saadani, 2017)
Architectural styles indicate the possibilities of materials and styles that were available locally or imported from the neighborhood through the trade existing at the time and what distinguishes one region from another

Summary

INTRODUCTION

The relationship between the past and the present is vital, as the past is an integral tool for building both the present and the future. With the discovery of oil, life in Qatar changed and developed rapidly, including the development of various professions and architectural designs, and changes in the social life and traditions of Qatari families To illustrate such changes, four historical houses were converted into museums at Msheireb heritage downtown, located in the heart of the capital Doha. Both the old and new features together make up the new futuristic Msheireb, which is a unique mix that distinguishes this Arabian Gulf city Placing these museums in this vital location creates a dynamic relationship among Qatar’s past, present and future, as well as providing an integrated picture for tourists about Qatari culture and heritage. Such a heritage tourism site is sustainable for current and upcoming generations. Such cultural tourism experiences increase the appreciation for and understanding of that cultural heritage

CONCLUSION

Findings

DATA AVAILABILITY STATEMENT