Doha Design District (DDD), the creative hub at Msheireb Downtown Doha powered by Msheireb Properties, has launched ‘Mada and Sada’, a new immersive platform designed to give visitors insight into the creative process behind art, design and public projects.
The Mada and Sada initiative explores the journey of an idea from conception to public expression. Derived from the Arabic words ‘Mada’ (origin) and ‘Sada’ (echo), the platform allows visitors to experience both stages either as a connected narrative or as standalone creative spaces.
The launch brought together designers, artists and members of Doha’s creative community and opened with ‘Msheireb Symphony’ by internationally acclaimed Qatari composer and singer-songwriter Dana Alfardan.
Commissioned by Msheireb Downtown Doha, the symphony reflects the city’s heritage, history and vision for a smart and sustainable urban future, blending contemporary classical music with traditional influences.
The event featured remarks from Dana Kazic, Director of DDD, and Samar Maakaroun, Partner and Creative Director at global design studio Pentagram, who developed the visual identity of ‘Mada and Sada’. The platform’s design draws inspiration from the architectural character of Msheireb Downtown Doha and reflects strong connections to Arab culture and heritage.
Inside ‘Mada’, visitors explored the creative journeys of Yasamin Sheikhi and Nada Al Kharashi, who shared the ideas, challenges and discoveries behind their work. In ‘Sada’, 20 shortlisted proposals from the District’s Public Art Open Call were showcased, offering the public a preview of projects competing to shape Doha’s urban spaces.
Dana Kazic Director – Doha Design District
“At Doha Design District, we believe that creativity flourishes in environments that are open, collaborative, and constantly evolving. Through ‘Mada and Sada,’ we’re creating a platform where creatives can experiment, connect, and bring their ideas to life, contributing to a cultural ecosystem that resonates both locally and globally.”
The launch of Mada and Sada marks the beginning of an ongoing program of workshops, exhibitions and cross-disciplinary collaborations aimed at supporting both emerging and established creatives. The platform seeks to strengthen engagement between creators and audiences by highlighting the creative process alongside the final work.
As part of the launch activities, ‘Mada and Sada’ hosted a special session led by Samar Maakaroun on Pentagram’s creative philosophy and the role of brand identity in translating values, stories and purpose into impactful visual and verbal systems. The session aligns with Msheireb Properties’ vision to support design-led innovation and creative industries.
Image Credits: QNA | Cropped by GBN
The Mada and Sada initiative reflects Doha Design District’s broader mission to foster a connected creative ecosystem and position design as a catalyst for cultural and urban development.
Through open calls, residencies, exhibitions and immersive platforms, the District continues to provide opportunities for designers and artists to develop their work while encouraging public participation in the creative journey.
Located within Msheireb Downtown Doha, Doha Design District views the city as a living canvas, using its public spaces, galleries and streets to promote creativity, experimentation and innovation while contributing to the future growth of Qatar’s design sector.
