The 12th conference of culture ministers in the Islamic world, organised by the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (ISESCO) and hosted by Qatar's Ministry of Culture, has officially designated the city of Lusail as the Capital of Culture in the Islamic world for 2030.
Lusail: a blend of Doha'sheritage and modernity
Lusail is considered a historical cultural beacon, and its name is derived from Qatar's authentic heritage and its cultural values. The name is also associated with one of the rarest flowers in Qatar, symbolising the uniqueness of the city and the seamless blend of Doha's heritage and modernity.The city covers an area of 38sq km and includes four exclusive islands, 19 multi-purpose residential areas, as well as recreational and commercial uses. This vibrant city boasts 22 world-class hotels, making it a gift for hospitality, tourism, and investments in Qatar.The city stands out with its wide array of upscale shops, fine dining restaurants, residential spaces, offices, hotels, parks, water gardens, theatres, fitness centres, and multi-screen cinemas. There are plans to open the new Lusail Museum in the coming years. The area includes the iconic Lusail Stadium, which can accommodate up to 80,000 spectators and hosted several matches for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, including the tournament's closing ceremony and the final match.Lusail City is also a sustainable city for several reasons, including the rating by the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS). All residential and office buildings in Lusail are rated at least two stars, with some achieving three, four, and five-star ratings. The city relies on modern non-traditional transportation networks, such as the metro, light rail, and tram. The comprehensive urban plan aims to reduce distances, thereby decreasing the reliance on car usage. The city features green spaces and parks covering an area of 3.5mn sq m, using treated water for irrigation. Additionally, it preserves a 27-km coastline and has created artificial coral reefs along the waterfront.
This decision was made during the ministerial meeting, where they discussed and adopted the mechanisms of the ISESCO programme for Islamic world capitals. The selection of Lusail as the Capital of Culture in the Islamic world is a recognition of the exceptional efforts and success of the Ministry of Culture during its tenure as the Capital of Culture in the Islamic world.The current approach to selecting cultural capitals in the Islamic world is primarily based on the principles outlined in the ISESCO document. It emphasises the need to celebrate cities with prominent cultural histories, revive their cultural and civilisational achievements, promote cultural and civilisational dialogue, and strengthen values of coexistence and understanding among peoples.In addition, these cities are expected to distinguish themselves through modern urban structures and possess cultural, artistic, and creative facilities that attract intellectuals, artists, and creators, as well as a wide audience from both residents and visitors. Furthermore, they should contribute significantly to the creative industries that play a pivotal role in achieving economic development.ISESCO announced that the new format of the Capitals of Culture in the Islamic world programme includes additional cities that have previously served as cultural centres and hubs, even if they are not currently members of the ISESCO. This expansion is carried out in co-operation with regional and international partners, serving the interests of the Islamic world and enhancing its international presence.ISESCO has selected six cities to hold the title of Capital of Culture in the Islamic world for the coming years, starting with Shusha in Azerbaijan in 2024, followed by Samarkand in Uzbekistan in 2025, then Hebron in Palestine in 2026, and Abidjan in Côte d'Ivoire in 2026. This will be followed by Siwa in Egypt in 2027, leading to the celebration of Lusail as the Capital of Culture in the Islamic world in 2030.