In March 2019, the new National Museum of Qatar opened its doors. In the context of regional discord, increased global attention and a renewed focus on Qatari national identity, how was the museum created and how has the world reacted? Drawing on over eight years of working on the museum’s interpretive development, this presentation will examine the intersection of Arabian Gulf and western museum traditions and present examples of interpretive elements designed to meet the expectations and needs of both local and international audiences. It will also explore the tensions and opportunities inherent in developing a museum experience rooted in local culture against the backdrop of a globalised perception of what a museum should be.