Qatar Museums Authority is participating as a platinum sponsor in the accompanying exhibition at the First International Conference for Urban Heritage in Islamic Countries from 23-28 May in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.  The conference is taking place under the patronage of His Majesty King Abdullah Bin Abdul-Aziz, King of Saudi Arabia.

HE Dr Mohammad Abdul-Raheem Kafoud, member of QMA’s board of trustees and Abdulla Al Najjar, CEO of QMA both attended the opening ceremony alongside 15 ministers from various Arab and Islamic countries as well as over 800 participants local and international.  QMA’s involvement in the conference is an effort to boost its relations with cultural and heritage organizations from around the Islamic World and an opportunity to showcase its unique projects such as the Museum of Islamic Art and new National Museum of Qatar. 
The ultimate objectives of this conference are: to evaluate the current circumstances of urban heritage in the Islamic countries, determine future parameters to cultural development and demonstrate economic importance of preserving urban heritage.

In addition, the conference aims to integrate various efforts related to urban heritage in Islamic countries which will benefit it citizens through creating job opportunities and revitalizing historical buildings.  During the discussion sessions, delegates focused on models of preserving heritage, methods for raising public awareness and success stories from across the region.  Furthermore, conference speakers highlighted the importance of collaboration between private and public sectors to ensure optimal results.
Alongside with the conference several exhibitions and events were held showcasing the diversity of heritage across the Islamic World. Organizers of the conference include: Ministry of Municipality, King Saud University, Qatari Diar and others.

QMA’s booth at the exhibition introduced the public to its activities, projects and mission towards achieving cultural development.  Such conferences offer a unique opportunity to exchange of ideas and learn from other experiences.