The Qatar Lounge, presented by Qatar Sports Investments and QC+ in partnership with Qatar Airways, concluded its participation at Art Basel in Basel this week, showcasing Qatar’s growing cultural presence on the international art stage. The initiative engaged a diverse group of collectors, galleries, artists, and cultural stakeholders, emphasizing the country's expanding arts ecosystem and promoting the upcoming 2027 edition of Art Basel Qatar.
Designed as a tranquil retreat within the bustling art fair, the Qatar Lounge featured design elements inspired by the desert landscape, including limestone textures, soft curves, and mineral tones, reflecting a modern Arab aesthetic. The space fostered an environment conducive to dialogue and cultural exchange, integrating hospitality, culinary experiences, and artistic collaboration. A key highlight was the culinary offering by Jiwan, a Michelin-recognized restaurant located at the National Museum of Qatar.
Artistic contributions included a collaboration with Qatari artist Mubarak Nasser al-Thani, who designed custom uniforms for the Lounge staff and created a series of limited-edition items. The venue also hosted several intimate events, including a presentation of Paris Saint-Germain’s UEFA Champions League trophy and a meet-and-greet session with Iraqi curator Wassan al-Khudhairi, recently appointed as artistic director for Art Basel Qatar 2027. Al-Khudhairi, founder of the Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art in Qatar, will work alongside Vincenzo de Bellis, Art Basel’s chief artistic officer and global director of fairs, to shape the artistic vision for the upcoming fair and oversee the gallery selection in collaboration with the fair’s Selection Committee.
Additional activations included a collaboration with Spanish artist Edgar Plans, who showcased a limited-edition collection of jerseys and posters, highlighting an ongoing partnership between Qatar Sports Investments, Paris Saint-Germain, and Art Basel. The Lounge also hosted a reception for the Discovery Program, which gathers international lifestyle collectors for a targeted experience during the fair.
Kirstin Mearns, CEO of QC+, described the Qatar Lounge as a valuable platform for deepening relationships within the global art community. She noted that following the successful inaugural edition of Art Basel Qatar earlier this year, the presence in Basel helps sustain momentum and build anticipation for the second edition, scheduled to take place in Doha from January 28 to 30, 2027, with preview days on January 26 and 27. The event will continue to be presented by Qatar Sports Investments and QC+, with Qatar Airways serving as the Premium Partner.
Art Basel Qatar aims to support the regional art market through its annual fair and year-round programming, fostering connections among galleries, artists, collectors, and institutions from the Global South and beyond.