La Menina Sculpture Unveiled at Old Doha Port, Celebrating Qatari Maritime Heritage
A contemporary tribute to maritime heritage and cultural exchange between Qatar and Spain
Once a historic commercial harbor, Old Doha Port is a bustling lifestyle destination that blends Doha’s rich seafaring legacy with innovative marine services, sustainable practices, and cultural depth. Serving as the world’s maritime gateway to Qatar, the centrally located port features a world-class 450-berth marina, a 24/7 operating cruise terminal, the nation’s largest slipway, over 250,000 square meters of greenery, and vibrant cultural spaces like the Mina District and Containers Yard.
With offerings ranging from water sports and cultural experiences to art installations and major events like the annual Qatar Boat Show and fishing competitions, Old Doha Port celebrates Qatar’s legacy while pioneering its maritime future and enhancing its global tourism profile.
Doha, Qatar – 15 February 2026 – Old Doha Port unveiled the iconic “La Menina” sculpture by Spanish artist Antonio Azzato, painted by Qatari artist Muna AlBader, in the presence of H.E. Álvaro Renedo, Ambassador of Spain to the State of Qatar, and Eng. Mohammed Abdulla Al Mulla, CEO of Old Doha Port. Inspired by Las Meninas by Diego Velázquez, the sculpture reflects Spain’s artistic legacy and reimagines tradition through a contemporary lens. Historically associated with the strength of the Spanish monarchy and the brilliance of Spain’s Golden Age, La Menina has evolved into a modern symbol of cultural identity and national pride. At Old Doha Port, the artwork takes on a distinct local dimension. Its blue maritime design pays tribute to Qatar’s deep-rooted relationship with the sea, while the flowing wave motifs, drawing inspiration from both the Qatari and Spanish flags, symbolize dialogue and cultural exchange. Internationally, ‘La Menina’ serves as a traveling cultural ambassador of Spain, adapting to each host country while preserving its Spanish roots. This balance between global recognition and local interpretation creates a meaningful artistic bridge between Qatar and Spain, making the sculpture both globally recognizable and locally resonant.