Doha:HE Chairperson of Qatar Museums (QM) Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al-Thani has announced the formation of the Qatar Fashion and Crafts Council (QFCC). This initiative aims to foster collaboration between the public and private sectors and guide the strategic direction of both areas to enhance investment partnerships and global market access for regional talent.
According to Qatar News Agency, during the 9th World Investment Forum 2026, Sheikha Al Mayassa emphasized Qatar's potential to lead creative industries due to its advanced infrastructure and cultural institutions. These assets are expected to inspire and educate future generations while nurturing domestic talent.
The council will function as an advisory entity, aiming to enrich the national economy and create new opportunities for cultural dialogue. Sheikha Al Mayassa highlighted the importance of investing in local talent and the significance of integrating cultural institutions with the private sector to sustain and develop the creative economy.
Sheikha Al Mayassa also noted the pivotal role of culture, arts, and creativity in Qatar's economic sector, underlining the country's achievements in building a cultural ecosystem over the past two decades. This approach incorporates traditional craftsmanship with modern creativity to compete in global markets.
Further, QM initiatives such as Liwan Design Studios and Labs, Fashion Trust Arabia, and M7 provide support to local designers and artists. The chairperson confirmed QM's support for around 7,000 full-time jobs, with a significant interest in creative entrepreneurship among Qatar University students.
Noah Horowitz, CEO of Art Basel, praised Qatar's commitment to the arts and culture as drivers of the creative economy. He noted the importance of Qatar's infrastructure and its investments in cultural incubators to sustain innovation and cultural development.
Designer Yasmin Mansour, a recipient of the Fashion Trust Arabia award, commended Qatar's cultural infrastructure and strategic planning that spans decades. She emphasized the significance of sustainable cultural projects and initiatives in promoting Qatar as a cultural beacon in West Asia and North Africa.