The sixth annual Katara International Amber Exhibition opened in Doha, Qatar, on January 14, 2026, showcasing a diverse collection of the fossilized resin from 13 countries. The event, held at Katara Cultural Village, features 82 pavilions and aims to highlight the cultural, historical, and economic significance of amber. Director General of the Katara Cultural Village Foundation, Professor Dr. Khalid bin Ibrahim Al-Sulaiti, officially opened the exhibition alongside Ambassador of Poland H E Tomasz Sadziński.
Katara International Amber Exhibition Draws Global Participation
This year’s exhibition includes participants from Saudi Arabia, Poland, Latvia, Germany, Kuwait, Bahrain, the UAE, Iraq, Syria, China, Turkiye, Lithuania, and Qatar itself. The wide representation underscores the growing international interest in amber as both a beautiful material and a valuable scientific resource. According to organizers, the event is expected to attract a large number of visitors, including collectors, researchers, and tourists.
A Showcase of Amber’s Versatility
The exhibition isn’t limited to raw amber specimens. Visitors can view a broad range of luxury products and artifacts crafted from the material, including antique Polish rosaries and contemporary jewelry designs. This demonstrates the enduring appeal of amber across different cultures and time periods. Additionally, the displays highlight the cultural significance of amber, which has been used for centuries in religious objects and traditional remedies.
Beyond its aesthetic qualities, the exhibition delves into the scientific aspects of amber. Fossilized tree resin often contains preserved plant and insect inclusions, offering a unique window into ancient ecosystems. These inclusions are of great interest to paleontologists and researchers studying prehistoric life. The event provides information on identifying authentic amber, polishing techniques, and factors influencing its quality and value.
Khalid Abdulrahim Al-Sayed, Director of Events and Cultural Affairs at Katara and General Supervisor of the Exhibition, stated that the event has become a key destination for amber enthusiasts. He emphasized that the exhibition aligns with Katara’s mission to promote cultural understanding and celebrate diversity. Al-Sayed expressed hope that the exhibition will continue to strengthen cultural and economic ties throughout the Middle East region.
The exhibition also features pieces showcasing modern techniques blended with traditional craftsmanship. Several exhibitors are presenting exclusive collections created specifically for the Katara event, adding to its unique appeal. This focus on both historical and contemporary amber work aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the material’s evolution and ongoing relevance.
The increasing popularity of amber jewelry and decorative items is driving demand for ethically sourced and high-quality pieces. The Katara exhibition provides a platform for exhibitors to demonstrate their commitment to these standards. The event also contributes to the growing field of gemstone appreciation and trade within the region.
The Katara International Amber Exhibition is open to the public until January 16, 2026. Organizers anticipate continued strong attendance throughout the remaining days of the event. Future editions will likely continue to expand the scope of participating countries and the range of exhibits on display.
Looking ahead, the success of this year’s exhibition suggests a continued focus on cultural events that blend heritage with economic opportunities in Qatar. The long-term impact on the regional amber market and increased scientific research remain to be seen, but the exhibition has undoubtedly raised the profile of this fascinating natural material.