A Local’s Guide to Qatar

As the chief executive of the Doha Film Institute, Fatma Hassan Al Remaihi is passionate about championing Qatar’s film industry all over the world, hosting film festivals, and investing in local talent. Her efforts have landed her on the Variety500 list of leaders shaping the global film industry.

This interview is part of The World Made Local, a global collaboration between the seven international editions of Condé Nast Traveler in which 100 people in 100 countries tell us why their home turf should be your next destination.

Tell us what growing up in Qatar was like, and where’s your favorite place to return to now?

I grew up in a large family, and I have fond memories of my childhood, eating almonds from the almond tree in our courtyard and playing in water during the hot summers. My favorite place to return to now, apart from our ancestral home, is the elementary school just behind our house in Madinat Khalifa—those memories of crossing the street to school and running back afterward are etched in my mind.

If someone is visiting for 24 hours, where are five places they should visit?

You can never discover a place in 24 hours, other than scratching the surface of what it has to offer—and more so in Qatar, where there is such a deep cultural and artistic heritage. Start the day with a sumptuous, authentic, and healthy breakfast at Shay Al Shoomos in Souq Waqif. Explore the area deeper and take in the delights of the souk; you will connect with the past here. The next stop has to be Qatar Foundation, where you can see Qatar’s investment in culture, science, and education. Tour the Museum of Islamic Art for an authentic cultural experience, and visit the National Museum of Qatar—it’s innovative and immersive. Conclude the day by engaging with nature: with a tour of Doha’s largest park, Aspire Park, or driving down to Sealine Beach to soak in the sun and the sea.

What’s one thing you wish people knew about Qatar, but often don’t?

That there is so much to explore in such a small country. While you may be able to crisscross the nation physically in less than a day, the experiences that you can savor just in Doha alone are enough for a long holiday. What only visitors to Doha know is how we welcome them with open hearts and minds; you come home to Qatar—and the authenticity of the cultural experiences will delight you. It’s a country rooted in heritage and tradition, where the past seamlessly blends with the future.

When you’re looking to get inspired, where do you go? Why do you find it so inspiring?

In terms of reconnecting with my roots and to nourish my soul, there is no better trip than to my ancestral home. When it’s not possible, I turn to my children, who delight me with their natural curiosity. I also look up to Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, who has revolutionized the perception of Arab women on the global map through her work in education, community development, and youth empowerment; and Her Excellency Sheikha Al-Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, who has been instrumental in driving the development of art and cultural establishments in the Arab world and beyond. They have not only inspired me to push my boundaries, but also serve as beacons in guiding our efforts to build a strong community of creatives here in Qatar.

What’s the coolest thing happening in Qatar right now?

Of course, the preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2022 is one of the coolest things—and you can see the positivity and dynamism around you. Then there’s the work we do at the Doha Film Institute, which continues to promote and celebrate talent from around the world. Who would have thought of Qatar as a film hub in the region? We are honored to realize that goal, and that leads to some amazing creative exchange—between talent here and globally, which is inspiring.

When you’re away, what do you miss about Qatar?

I miss the warmth of my nation, the genuine affection people have for each other, and how, despite the modernity, we uphold our tradition and values.

Follow Fatma Hassan Al Remaihi on Instagram @fatma_h_alremaihi