Doha: The National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) is set to present “Lehmesa: Return by Moonlight,” an immersive exhibition highlighting the crucial role of sea turtles in Qatar’s marine ecosystems. The exhibit will focus on the endangered Hawksbill turtle, the only species that nests on Qatar’s beaches, reflecting the nation’s natural wealth.
According to Qatar News Agency, the exhibition, available from 27 October 2025 to 7 February 2026, commemorates NMoQ’s 50th anniversary, underscoring its mission to preserve and share the nation’s heritage. Lehmesa emphasizes the environment’s influence on Qatar’s development and the need to protect its natural history.
HE Sheikh Abdulaziz Al Thani, Director of NMoQ, expressed the museum’s dual responsibility of preserving Qatar’s cultural and natural heritage through the exhibition. He emphasized the exhibition’s role in raising awareness about the resilience of the Hawksbill turtle species facing mounting threats.
The exhibition traces the Hawksbill turtle’s journey from land to sea, exploring its history, life cycle, and environmental interactions. Visitors will experience a sensory-rich space replicating Qatar’s coastal landscapes. Through scientific insight and interactive displays, the exhibition encourages visitors to engage with the environment crucial for the turtles’ survival.
While the Hawksbill turtle’s nesting is documented, the migration routes of other sea turtle species in Qatari waters remain largely unknown. NMoQ is calling for the first regional GCC Forum on Sea Turtles with the Ministry of Environment to share insights and advance conservation efforts. The conference will explore themes like threats and protection, management, sustainability, and community education.
Qatar’s marine life hosts four sea turtle species: the Green Turtle, Olive Ridley, Loggerhead, and Hawksbill. The Hawksbill is the only one nesting on its shores. The exhibition delves into the region’s deep marine history and modern threats like light pollution, plastic waste, climate change, and habitat destruction.
The exhibition unfolds over six sections, beginning with the importance of sea turtles to Qatar’s ecology and cultural heritage. London-based artist Josh Gluckstein will contribute works made from recycled materials. The second section explores the cultural significance and history of turtles, featuring a Proganochelys quenstedti display. Subsequent sections focus on the Hawksbill’s nesting behaviors, challenges, and ecological role in coral reefs, concluding with Qatar’s conservation initiatives.
Public events, workshops, and educational activities will be held with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and Qatar University to deepen understanding of marine biodiversity. These programs aim to engage families, students, and communities in advocacy and learning.
Professor Jassim Abdulla Al Khayat of Qatar University highlighted the exhibition’s ecological significance, urging citizens and visitors to explore scientific concepts and methodologies for monitoring and protection.
As part of public engagement, NMoQ and MoECC organized a Turtle Hatching Programme at Fuwairet Beach from 12 to 15 July 2025, offering the public a chance to witness Hawksbill turtles’ early-life stage and raising awareness of conservation efforts.
Dr. Ibrahim Al Maslamani of MoECC praised the exhibition for intertwining science with collective memory to engage the community in environmental protection. The exhibition focuses on the Hawksbill turtle, listed on the IUCN Red List, and offers an educational experience combining environmental knowledge with interactive displays.
Lehmesa: Return by Moonlight is part of Evolution Nation, an 18-month campaign celebrating Qatar’s cultural journey since NMoQ’s founding. Curated by Qatar Creates, the campaign positions Qatar as a global hub for art, culture, and creativity, highlighting its cultural milestones and future aspirations. The exhibition aligns with the Years of Culture initiative, sharing Qatar’s cultural heritage with partner nations.