Msheireb Museums, in collaboration with Qatar Television and the Australian Embassy in Doha, hosted a special screening of the documentary Al Nayla: A Journey to the Depths of Sea and the Secrets of Extracting Oysters and Pearls from the Coast of Australia. Held at Stories in Msheireb Museums, the event brought together diplomats, cultural leaders, and members of the public to explore the deep historical ties between Qatar and Australia through the pearling industry.
The documentary traced the evolution of Western Australia’s pearling sector, documenting traditional pearl diving practices, the transition to cultured pearls, and the families who shaped the industry over generations. Through archival footage and expert interviews, Al Nayla illustrated how technological and economic shifts transformed a regional trade into a globally significant industry—mirroring similar developments in the Gulf.
The screening carried strong diplomatic significance, attended by Dick Milton, Speaker of the Australian House of Representatives; Shane Flanagan; senior leadership from Qatar Television; and members of the diplomatic community. Their presence highlighted the enduring cultural and historical links between the two nations.
Commenting on the occasion, Abdulla Al Naama, General Manager of Msheireb Museums, noted that the film created a natural dialogue between Qatar’s pearling legacy and international maritime histories—expanding audiences’ understanding of how the sea shaped societies across continents.
Australian Ambassador Shane Flanagan described the documentary as a reminder of the human stories connecting Australia and Qatar, particularly as both nations celebrate a decade of diplomatic presence. Meanwhile, Ali Saleh Al-Sada, Director of Qatar Television, emphasised the importance of placing the film within Msheireb Museums, where Qatar’s pearling heritage is already preserved and interpreted.
Through Al Nayla, Msheireb Museums reaffirmed its role as a platform for cultural dialogue—using history, storytelling, and shared heritage to strengthen international understanding and collaboration.
