Fire Station gallery

Abutting Doha’s central Al Bidda Park, the Fire Station Gallery was built in 1982 and used as a fire station for over thirty years. In December of 2012, the last fire engine was removed, and the space became part of the Qatar Museums network. Converted into a contemporary art space, the gallery showcases art and artists, engages the local community, and nurtures emerging talent through its artist-in-residence program. 

Fire Station is a contemporary art space committed to supporting artists through its artist in residence program as well as engaging the local communities in Qatar by providing opportunities and events, which include exhibitions and public programs.

Built in 1982, the Fire Station was previously the home of the first civil defense authority in Qatar, until late 2012. Repurposed in 2014 to host the Fire Station: Artist in Residence, Ibrahim Al-Jaida, the architect leading the project, has preserved the original details of the building and its tower. The Annex and extended building were additions to the original structure.

At the Fire Station, we provide facilities, production support, mentorships, and curatorial support. Residents are selected through an Open Call application process, after which an esteemed jury convenes to make a final selection of up to 20 artists.

Whilst the new building preserves many of its original features, the renovated areas include a café, art supply shop, cinema, and other facilities for artists. The Fire Station garage, covering approx. 700 (sqm) has been converted into a dedicated exhibition space called “Garage Gallery” for artists to exhibit their works and productions in June every year. It also hosts multiple international exhibitions in during the rest of the year.