The “Countryside: A Place to Live, Not to Leave” exhibition has officially opened in Doha, offering a thought-provoking exploration of the rural landscape as a model for sustainable, resilient living. Created by Qatar Museums (QM) in partnership with AMO, led by Samir Bantal and Rem Koolhaas, the exhibition runs until June 30, 2026, across two venues: the Qatar Preparatory School (QPS) and the National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ). Sponsored by the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC), Hassad Food, and Kahramaa, it presents a compelling narrative that spans regions from Africa through the Middle East and Central Asia to China.
A New Vision for Rural Life
The exhibition challenges the prevailing urban-centric narratives by highlighting how rural life can offer humane and ecological solutions to the global crises of today. Through a combination of immersive displays, research, and storytelling, visitors are invited to reconsider the role of rural areas in addressing major global challenges like food security, climate change, and sustainable development.
The opening event was marked by a formal inauguration led by QM Chairperson HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, OMA founder Rem Koolhaas, AMO director Samir Bantal, alongside high-ranking officials from the QFFD, MoECC, Hassad Food, and Kahramaa. These figures underscored the exhibition’s significance as a platform for fostering dialogue on urgent global issues.
The Role of Resilience in Rural Communities
QFFD Director-General Fahad Hamad al-Sulaiti emphasised that the exhibition serves as a narrative platform, bringing to life stories of resilience and innovation from rural regions worldwide. Projects supported by the QFFD, in collaboration with organisations like the UN Development Programme (UNDP) and the Gates Foundation, are showcased, demonstrating tangible impacts and highlighting the critical need for collective, multilateral action.
These stories illustrate how rural communities are integral to addressing interconnected global challenges, including climate adaptation and inclusive economic growth. Through these displays, the exhibition underscores the importance of sustainable solutions that empower rural populations and enable them to contribute meaningfully to global stability.
Qatar’s Commitment to Sustainability
Sheikh Abdulaziz al-Thani, NMoQ Director, praised the exhibition’s depth and relevance, describing it as a deeply informative and engaging experience. The exhibition’s theme aligns with Qatar’s long-standing commitment to sustainability and forward-thinking development. “As a museum that explores the traditions rooted in Qatar’s desert and sea and looks ahead to extraordinary new possibilities on our nation’s horizon,” Sheikh Abdulaziz said, “we are excited to welcome our audiences to ‘Countryside: A Place to Live, Not to Leave’.”
This exhibition not only showcases the resilience of rural communities but also serves as a powerful platform for reflection and dialogue on how these communities are vital contributors to global prosperity. The collaboration between QFFD, AMO, and other international bodies reinforces Qatar’s ongoing investment in scalable, sustainable solutions that benefit both rural areas and the broader global community.
Conclusion: A Global Conversation on Rural Sustainability
The “Countryside: A Place to Live, Not to Leave” exhibition offers a unique and essential perspective on the future of rural life, highlighting its potential as a source of innovation and sustainability. As Qatar continues to position itself as a leader in promoting sustainability, this exhibition adds to the nation’s growing commitment to addressing global challenges. It provides a compelling invitation to rethink the way we view rural communities and their role in shaping a sustainable, equitable future.
For those interested in Qatar’s broader sustainability initiatives, Qatar Foundation’s Green Island offers a year-long look into the country’s dedication to environmental progress, while Invest Qatar’s partnership with WHOOP highlights Qatar’s role in fostering innovation across sectors.
