NMoQ Explorer: A digital journey of discovery

The National Museum of Qatar (NMoQ) Explorer provides an opportunity for Qatar residents and visitors to embark on a digital journey of discovery and imagination.A collaboration between NMoQ and Microsoft, the new digital platform invites people to be among the first to explore its features and promises to revolutionise museum experience. It offers easy access to NMoQ’s extensive online collections wherever they maybe.The NMoQ Explorer features a number of sections, including the museum’s ‘Online Collections’, ‘Interactive Timeline’, Archaeology and Heritage Map’, Museum Map, and soon, its ‘360-degree Tour’.Some of the fascinating online collections available at NMoQ include:

1. An exquisite 19th-century compass (al deira) dating back to the 1800-1899 period. This navigational tool, likely manufactured in Great Britain, was utilised for trade sailing and travel. Its remarkable discovery took place in Qatar.
2. Step into the 19th century with an Arab hood known as a burga. This essential falconer's aid is instrumental in maintaining falcons’ calm demeanour when they are not engaged in hunting activities. Among falconry equipment, the hood holds utmost importance.
3. Unearthed at Al Zubara, a pearl merchant's chest (al bishtakhta) provides a glimpse into the 18th to early 19th century. This magnificent chest, believed to originate from India, offers insights into the pearl trade.
4. From the archaeological site of Rubayqa in northern Qatar, discover wooden chess pieces hailing from the late Islamic period. With their origin traced back to Southeast Asia or India, these chess pieces shed light on the historical connections between different regions.
5. A small-sized 19th century brass coffee pot (raslan) was used as a mazal to serve coffee. This charming artifact with Arabian provenance adds to the cultural richness of the collection.

These extraordinary pieces are just a glimpse into the diverse and captivating online collections awaiting exploration at NMoQ, it is learnt.According to Qatar Museums, the collaboration between NMoQ and Microsoft, as established through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in May 2021, paved the way for the remarkable achievement of the NMoQ Explorer. This innovative platform serves as a cornerstone in NMoQ's digital transformation plans, aimed at delivering cutting-edge smart exhibits and elevate the museum's digital offerings.QM noted that the NMoQ Explorer has been meticulously crafted to mirror the immersive and interactive approach of the physical museum. It acts as a virtual representation of NMoQ's extensive collections and immersive experiences, seamlessly transitioning users through space, time, and objects.At the core of the NMoQ Explorer lies a custom-developed solution that harnesses the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and a fully scalable knowledge mining tool, QM added. This novel mapping approach connects objects to their respective periods and sites, enabling users to embark on an interconnected journey through Qatar's history and culture. With just a few simple clicks, visitors can unlock a world of knowledge and wonder.Users of the NMoQ Explorer will have the added convenience of browsing content in their preferred language, thanks to the upcoming launch of a multilingual chatbot soon. This exciting feature will enhance the accessibility and inclusivity of the platform, allowing diverse audiences to fully immerse themselves in the offerings of NMoQ.In addition to the NMoQ Explorer, NMoQ and Microsoft also put up the Digital Centre for youth, an initiative dedicated to nurturing digital skills and fostering new ways of thinking and working among students and young people. It stands as a testament to the long-term partnership between NMoQ and Microsoft, solidifying their shared commitment to providing innovative experiences and keeping pace with contemporary technological advancements.