In celebration of International Museums Day, Qatar Museums is offering free entry to all its museums and exhibitions on May 18, 2025. This special initiative invites the public to enjoy Qatar’s rich cultural heritage and museum experiences free of charge for one day only.

This global event, observed each year on May 18, was first launched in 1977 by a resolution of the General Assembly of the International Council of Museums (ICOM) in Moscow. It aims to raise awareness about the vital role museums play in society, including cultural preservation, education, and community development.

Since 1992, each year’s celebration has been guided by a specific theme. This year’s theme, “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,” highlights the growing challenges museums face today and the need for innovation and adaptability in an ever-evolving world.

Local and international museum experts have emphasized the importance of this occasion in sustaining museums’ central role in the cultural landscape. Museums continue to serve as dynamic platforms for cultural exchange and as drivers of sustainable development, peace, and mutual understanding.

Some of the exhibitions this year include powerful explorations of migration, exile, borders, and belonging, brought to life through ten immersive sections in seven galleries.