Its ambition is to compete with Dubai and Abu Dhabi in hosting the world's biggest events. Covering 40,000 m2, the centre will be able to host events from a few dozen to several thousand participants. Qatar may be protecting its roots and culture, but it has also embarked on a number of pharaonic projects. And with the third-largest gas reserves in the world, it has little fear of bankruptcy!
Building sites are springing up everywhere. Education City is a giant campus that will bring together six universities; Aspire Zone is already home to the world's largest indoor stadium, with a capacity of 50,000 spectators. Closer to the centre, an artificial island is rising from the sea: The Pearl. Two towers, nicknamed the Zig Zag Towers, welcome visitors to this future leisure destination. Marinas, dream villas, hotels, luxury boutiques and restaurants are already under construction. At the entrance, you can see a car dealership: Rolls Royce, of course! From this 'island of delights', the view of the West Bay skyline is constantly changing as new skyscrapers tease the sky, as if the area were a laboratory for whimsical architects and daring clients.
Culture has its place in all this madness. The Doha Culture Village, due to open next year, will reproduce the country's traditional habitat and showcase its traditions. Scheduled for 2013, the national museum designed by French architect Jean Nouvel will take the form of enormous sand roses.
