On Saturday, M7 in Msheireb Downtown Doha will host the launch of Intajat, a new cultural platform founded by Sheikh Khalifa bin Abdulla al-Thani. A filmmaker, curator, and multidisciplinary artist, Sheikh Khalifa understands the challenges artists face today. Intajat is his response: a platform that connects Qatari artists with global audiences, supports creative sustainability, and celebrates artistic expression across all mediums.
Gulf Times sat down with him to learn more about the vision behind Intajat, his personal artistic journey, and what this means for the future of Qatar’s creative economy.
When did your artistic journey begin, and what drew you to the world of art?
My journey began with a deep passion for storytelling — whether through film or installations. Both art and cinema have always felt like home to me; they’ve been spaces to question, reflect, and connect. I studied Film and Media at the School of Visual Arts in New York, earning a BFA, and returned to Doha to work with the Doha Film Institute. From there, I began working independently across film, exhibitions, and visual art.
What milestones are you most proud of, and what are you working on now?
I’m proud of directing films that received international recognition, and of curating exhibitions in partnership with leading Qatari institutions. One highlight was launching the Intaj series with the Doha Film Institute and Qatar Museums, combining cinema and cultural discourse in an immersive way. My film Border also holds a deep personal and public resonance. Most recently, I launched Intajat — a platform dedicated to supporting creative production in art, film, and culture.
What inspired you to create Intajat, and what is your long-term vision for it?
The motivation came from the need to help artists reach broader audiences while preserving their creative integrity. Intajat is meant to be a sustainable cultural platform — one that connects art, market, and society through collaboration and cultural exchange. We help artists sell their work, share their practice, and reach visibility both locally and internationally.
How have artists responded so far? Can you share what to expect at the launch?
The response has been overwhelmingly positive. We already have 25 artists onboard, and the platform continues to grow. I’m excited for the official launch this Saturday, May 3rd, at M7, where artists and guests will explore the platform and express interest in joining. What matters most to me is the spirit of unity — the sense that we’re all building something together as a creative community.
How do you think artists can balance expression with the commercial side of their work?
It starts with understanding that commercial success doesn’t diminish artistic value — it can support it. The key is maintaining creative integrity while thoughtfully presenting your work. If the work is meaningful and honest, it will connect with people. True artistic sustainability lies in navigating both the personal and the public, without sacrificing your core.
What support systems exist for artists in Qatar today?
Qatar’s creative sector has seen remarkable growth, thanks largely to the vision and leadership of HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums. Her continued commitment has shaped the cultural landscape and empowered artists in transformative ways.
Initiatives from Qatar Museums — like the Artist in Residence Program at the Fire Station, DFI’s Qatari Film Fund, and countless institutional collaborations — have provided crucial support for both emerging and established creatives. There’s now greater access to art materials, more platforms to exhibit, and expanded opportunities for cultural exchange.
Beyond the public sector, the private sector has also played an important role. Independent galleries and spaces like AlHosh have opened new doors for artists to be seen, supported, and collected. And while often less visible, the Ministry of Culture’s contribution continues to offer support across various cultural initiatives, reinforcing the creative infrastructure behind the scenes.
Public venues such as Katara and Souq Waqif provide consistent exposure, while events like Qatar Creates, Design Doha, DFI’s Qumra, and the Ajyal Film Festival help artists engage in regional and international dialogue, while also encouraging cross-disciplinary collaborations and long-term growth.
Though challenges remain — particularly in securing funding for large-scale projects or increasing global reach — there’s no doubt Qatar offers one of the most supportive environments for artists in the region.
How do you see the creative economy in Qatar evolving?
The creative economy is growing rapidly. We’re seeing more artists make a sustainable living, more galleries and exhibitions, and more commissioned public art across the country. Creative practice is becoming part of how we shape both our cultural identity and our economy. It’s a movement driven by belief in the power of art.
How does Intajat contribute to this evolution?
Intajat contributes by offering artists a platform to share their work, reach new audiences, and engage with the broader community. We focus on curating meaningful collaborations and supporting artists through visibility, storytelling, and access to tools that help sustain their practice. The hope is to continue building a space that uplifts creatives and participates — alongside others — in shaping a more connected and resilient creative economy in Qatar.
About Sheikh Khalifa al-Thani
A Qatari filmmaker, curator, and multidisciplinary artist whose work explores the layered complexities of Arab and Qatari identity. His films have received international recognition, including awards at the New York Festivals and the Tangier Film Festival. In 2022, he started the Intaj series with the Doha Film Institute, merging cinema with cultural dialogue through immersive formats. In 2025, he launched Intajat, a private cultural platform and online store dedicated to supporting creatives through curated collaborations, increased visibility, and global cultural exchange.