Years of Culture
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2025/06/17
Formal diplomatic relations between Qatar and Russia were established in 1988, laying the foundation for cooperation across multiple sectors. Both nations maintain active diplomatic missions, with Qatar’s embassy in Moscow, led by His Excellency Sheikh Ahmed bin Nasser Al Thani, facilitating political and cultural engagement. The Russian Embassy in Qatar, headed by His Excellency Dmitry Dogadkin also provides essential diplomatic and consular services.
Over the past decade, several notable diplomatic visits have taken place. In January 2016, His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met with President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss regional affairs and energy cooperation.
The Amir returned to Moscow in March 2018, reinforcing diplomatic and economic ties ahead of the FIFA World Cup. Furthermore, in June 2021, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited Doha to meet with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) representatives, underscoring ongoing diplomatic engagement.
More recently, in March 2025, a phone call between the Amir and President Putin explored bilateral relations and key issues of joint interest. This was followed in April 2025 by the Amir’s visit to Moscow to witness the signing of agreements and Memorandums of Understanding between the two nations.
Economic cooperation has become a cornerstone of the Qatar-Russia alliance, and the two countries have worked together in areas such as energy, infrastructure, and finance.
Established in 2007, the Russian-Qatari Business Council provides a platform for entrepreneurs and investors to explore shared opportunities. Similarly, the Qatari-Russian Investment & Trade Advisory demonstrates mutual commitment to expanding economic partnerships.
Notably, in 2021, Qatar participated as the guest country at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, where six Memorandums of Understanding and one Letter of Intent were signed, to strengthen investment and economic cooperation between Qatar and Russia. Additionally, in May 2025, Qatar’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry took part in the 16th International Economic Forum.
Beyond formal trade agreements, the two countries have pursued major ventures. Among the most high-profile economic investments between Qatar and Russia in recent years was the Qatar Investment Authority’s US$11 billion acquisition of shares in Rosneft in 2016, carried out in partnership with Glencore.
In April 2025, both countries agreed to contribute an additional €1 billion (US$1.14 billion) to their joint investment fund, broadening support for future projects.
Cultural exchange forms an integral pillar of Russia-Qatar relations. Over the years, both countries have continued to actively showcase their traditions, arts, and innovations through dynamic initiatives and events.
In 2022, Russia participated in the Community Days Festival, a cultural celebration held to inaugurate Flag Plaza, a new public space in Doha. The 10-day event took place during the 10th Anniversary of Years of Culture, with over 90 embassies taking part.
Education and language play a key role in the friendship between the countries. The International School of London in Qatar offers a Russian programme within its multilingual curriculum, helping Russian-speaking students maintain their language skills. Several Qatari Universities offer Russian language courses for adults, including the Translation and Interpreting Institute (TII) at Hamad Bin Khalifa University.
The Qatar Arabic Language Centre in Moscow, inaugurated in 2021, promotes Arabic language and culture. In early 2025, the 4th edition of the Arabic Language Doha Prize in Moscow attracted over 150 students from Russian universities, with seven winners awarded scholarships to study Arabic at Qatar University, further fostering linguistic and cultural ties.
Strong working relations were established between the organising committees of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and the 2022 tournament in Qatar. This collaboration involved sharing expertise on stadium infrastructure, security, and event logistics, contributing to the success of both events.
Russia’s experience as a World Cup host provided valuable lessons for Qatar as it prepared to stage the first World Cup in the Middle East. This partnership enhanced knowledge exchange and reinforced bilateral ties on the international stage.
There have been a number of notable musical exchanges and concerts between Qatar and Russia, showcasing a rich blend of their cultural traditions. In 2017, the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra (QPO) performed in Moscow at the Tchaikovsky Concert Hall, featuring compositions from Arab and Russian repertoires, reflecting both nations’ appreciation for musical heritage. In 2024, the QPO also hosted a sold out concert at the Katara Opera House titled Russian Greats: Rachmaninoff and Tchaikovsky.
The Qatar-Russia 2018 Year of Culture marked a milestone in bilateral relations, presenting a diverse calendar of events that deepened cultural ties. The Grand Opening at Katara Opera House featured a stunning performance by the award-winning Igor Moiseyev Ballet, launching a year filled with exhibitions, performances, and collaborative projects.
One of the standout moments was a friendly football match between Qatari and Russian artists and public figures at Red Square in Moscow. Qatar's participation in the Running Hearts Green Marathon demonstrated the unifying power of sport.
The 7th St. Petersburg International Cultural Forum showcased Qatar’s creative vision through public dialogues, artistic presentations and exhibitions. Interactive events like the Gastronomic Pop-Up Project at a Russian music festival introduced local audiences to Qatar’s culinary culture.
The Recontextualising Architecture and Urbanism conference offered insights into the architectural innovation driving Qatar's urban landscape. Discussions emphasised common aspirations for modernity and sustainability, resonating with cultural and academic audiences alike.
A landmark exhibition, Pearls: Treasures from the Seas and the Rivers, was held at Moscow’s State Historical Museum, showcasing Qatar’s fascinating pearling history. Qatari Fashion and Jewellery Art also celebrated the elegance and craftsmanship of Qatari designers, introducing Russian audiences to the intricate beauty of Qatar’s craftsmanship.
The Qatari Programme at the International Festival of Muslim Cinema in Kazan highlighted Qatari filmmakers. Meanwhile, a Qatari Authors and Publishers event in Russia fostered literary exchange, building bridges between creative communities.
Qatar-Russia relations exemplify a thriving partnership grounded in mutual respect, dynamic diplomacy, and shared cultural appreciation. From longstanding diplomatic relations to shared business ventures and vibrant cultural exchanges, both nations continue to build meaningful connections.
The 2018 Year of Culture and ongoing initiatives affirm the enduring ties of friendship between Qatar and Russia.
Find out more about upcoming Years of Culture events.
