Thank you for your interest in the Design Doha's Exhibitions open call. We appreciate your enthusiasm and look forward to discovering your talents. To help answer any questions you may have, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions, which you can find here. If you need further information, feel free to reach out to us.

Share with a friend

1. What is the Design Doha Biennale 2026 open exhibition open call?

The Exhibition Open Call invites curators, cultural institutions, design studios, and universities of MENA descent to submit proposals for exhibitions as part of the 2026 Design Doha Biennale. Selected exhibitions will be featured in the official program and showcased in Doha.

2. When and where will the Design Doha Biennale 2026 take place?

The Biennale will take place from 16 April to 30 June 2026 in Doha, Qatar, with an exclusive three-day opening from 16-18 April 2026.

3. Who can apply?

Applications are open to mid-career and established curators, cultural institutions, architecture & design schools, and design studios from or with roots in the MENA region (GCC, Levant, North Africa).

4. Can collectives or teams apply?

Yes, collectives and collaborative teams are eligible, but each exhibition must have one dedicated lead curator.

5. What types of exhibitions are eligible?

Exhibitions must align with one or more of the following categories:

  • Graphic Design
  • Furniture Design
  • Sound Design
  • Product Design
  • Interior Design
  • Craft Design
  • Urban Space Design
  • Architectural Design
  • Digital Design
  • Environmental Design
  • Communication Design
  • Urbanism Design

6. What is required in the application?

Applicants must submit:

  • Curatorial Statement (200 - 300 words): Briefly describe your approach and vision for the exhibition.
  • Exhibition Proposal (600–1,000 words): Outline the exhibition concept, significance to the chosen region, and relevance to Design Doha's mission.
  • Potential Designer List: Include the designer's list proposed for the exhibition, with links to their profiles/bios.
  • Checklist of Proposed Works: Include images, titles, dates, mediums, and specific installation requirements if applicable.
  • Public Program Proposal: Suggest public engagement programs (talks, presentations, workshops and etc…) related to your exhibition theme.
  • CV: Highlight curatorial experience.
  • Personal: Passport copies, official portraits of curator and designers featured, and bio
  • Budget: Budget breakdown and feasibility, fundraising plan / confirmed source of funding.

7. What expenses does Design Doha cover?

Design Doha provides:

  • Exhibition venues
  • Marketing and PR support
  • Inclusion in the official Design Doha Biennale calendar.

8. What criteria will be used to evaluate submissions?

Submissions will be evaluated based on:

  • Conceptual Clarity (30%) – Strong narrative & framework
  • Relevance to the MENA Region (20%) – Engages with cultural identity
  • Innovation & Originality (20%) – Fresh & thought-provoking approach
  • Curatorial Experience (10%) – Prior curatorial work in MENA
  • Feasibility (10%) – Practical execution & timeline
  • Budget Allocation (10%) – Clear funding strategy

9. When will applicants be notified of the results?

  • Shortlisted proposals announced: 26 May 2025
  • Unsuccessful applicants notified: 27-29 May 2025

10. What happens if my proposal is selected?


Selected curators will be required to:

  • Develop a detailed exhibition concept
  • Submit curatorial texts, object lists, and exhibition designs
  • Participate in public programs & media engagements
  • Attend site visits & installation phases in Doha
  • Deliver a final post-exhibition report

11. Will I need to travel to Doha?

Yes, selected curators must commit to site visits, installation, and exhibition opening periods as outlined in the timeline.

12. How do I submit my proposal?

All applications must be sent Arabic or English by 12 May 2025 (12 PM Doha time) via the official application portal.

13. Who can I contact for further inquiries?


For any questions, please email: mhassani@qm.org.qa