It has been an eventful week for Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani. From exhibition openings to key cultural events, the Chairperson of Qatar Museums rounded it off in style, receiving France’s prestigious Legion of Honour in recognition of her cultural influence.
In a distinguished ceremony that celebrated cultural diplomacy and artistic excellence, Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani was bestowed with the Légion d’honneur — the highest French national order of merit, awarded for both military and civil distinction.
The honour was conferred by the French Minister of Culture, Mrs.Rachida Dati, during her official visit to Qatar Museums. The recognition underscores Sheikha Al Mayassa’s profound influence in the global arts landscape and her unwavering commitment to fostering cross-cultural dialogue through the arts.
Sheikha Al Mayassa was not the only Qatari recognised during the visit. His Excellency Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Hamad Al Thani, Minister of Culture, was awarded the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, Commander — a well-deserved tribute from the French Republic for his remarkable efforts in amplifying Qatar’s cultural voice and championing Arab creativity on the international stage.
Just last week in the United Arab Emirates, Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi — President and Director of the Sharjah Art Foundation — was awarded the insignia of Officier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters), one of France’s most distinguished cultural honours.
The decoration was conferred by the Embassy of France in the UAE during an elegant ceremony held at The Flying Saucer in Sharjah — a fitting venue for a figure who has played a transformative role in the cultural landscape of the region. Sheikha Hoor was recognised for her exceptional contributions to cultural production, both within the UAE and on the global stage, further cementing her legacy as a visionary leader in contemporary art and heritage preservation.
The French Republic is extending more than just honours — it is offering a resounding recognition of those who have worked tirelessly to reshape the cultural and artistic landscape of the region.
