Sheikh Abdullah’s legacy on display

BY RAYNALD C RIVERA
DOHA: A retrospective giving new insights into the life and legacy of the longest-serving leader of Qatar opened yesterday at QMA Gallery at Katara.
‘Sheikh Abdullah Bin Jassim: A Leader’s Legacy’ exhibition explores his era, which oversaw the advent of Qatar’s oil industry, building of educational institutions, hospitals and infrastructure, and transformation of Doha. 
It features a rare collection of artefacts, historic photographs, oral history interviews and original films, some of which are on display for the first time.
“This is the first exhibition that sheds light on the life, achievements and legacy of Sheikh Abdullah and provides a glimpse on the modern history and urban development of Qatar,” Dr Abdulla Mohammed Al Sulaiti, Deputy Director for Research and Collection, told a press conference yesterday.
About the significance of the expo, Qatar University Professor, Dr Kaltham Al Ghanim, said Sheikh Abdullah was special as he served Qatar from 1913 to 1949, making him the longest-serving leader in the country’s history. Because of that, Qatar witnessed remarkable achievements under his leadership, she said.
The expo brings to life Qatar’s development across three phases beginning with Sheikh Abdullah’s succession to power and the start of the modern Qatar. The second phase focuses on the Old Palace – its history, occupancy by the ruling family, its geographical location in Fareej Al Sulatah in Doha, and its importance as the centre of rule in Qatar. 
The final part moves into modern times, showcasing the transition of what was a former palace to Qatar’s first museum in 1975, and displays QMA plans to develop it into the new National Museum of Qatar.
The Old Palace, Dr Al Ghanim said, stands out in the region for its unique design and was recognised with an Aga Khan award in 1980.
The exhibition, open to the public until January 30, is the first to be organised and curated by the new National Museum of Qatar in partnership with ExxonMobil Qatar.
“We are extremely proud of the strong relationship we share with Qatar Museums Authority, and look forward to continuing our support for QMA and Qatar in their efforts to preserve and highlight the country’s rich cultural heritage for the benefit of its people and the international arts and culture community,” said Bart Cahir, President and General Manager, ExxonMobil Qatar.
The expo includes an educational programme to teach students about Qatar’s history, Sheikh Abdullah and his strong leadership characteristics. 
School outreach opportunities, student tours of the exhibition and family events will also be held as part of the exhibition. 
The Peninsula