Located next to the most beautiful Mosque in Education City, this spiral staircase is a hidden gem for travelers and photographers alike. This unique design by Japanese architect Isozaki Arata will make you wander up and down for hours, with each turn unveiling a fascinating new perspective ahead of you.
Plan
Overview
Skill level
Easy
Accessbility
Public Location
Hours
Weekdays 7:30 AM-3:30 PM
Fee
Free
Pack
Wide-angle lens (24mm)
Model
Conservative Clothing
Tripod
How to get there
N25° 19' 00.2298"E51° 26' 49.5218"
This image was taken on the second floor of spiral stairs at the Qatar Faculty of Islamic Studies, which is a part of the Education City Mosque Building.
The Mosque is one of the most prominent buildings in Education City and can be seen from almost any point within the Education City area. You can reach it by metro (QNL metro station), car, or tram (Education City Mosque).
The most accessible mode of transport will be either by car or tram as it is located right next to the Mosque. However, if you choose the metro, you will need to walk for about 10 min.
Once reach the Mosque, head towards the pillars with calligraphy on it. Just behind those pillars, you will see a glass door. Walk in, turn right and walk to the end, where you will find the spiral staircase.
Note. You'll need permission to take photos in this building, so contact the Qatar Foundation before your visit: https://www.qf.org.qa
Tips
When to go
Best season
All months
Best time
Mid-day
Given the spiral staircase at the Qatar Faculty of Islamic studies is indoors, you can photograph here all months of the year for similar conditions.
The sun is mostly blocked by a small window on top until noon, so target to visit around mid-day when the sun is at its highest position, which will help illuminate the staircase.
Field tips
When photographing over the stair rails, be sure to strap your camera, so you don't drop it!
Positioning your model in the middle of the stairways introduces a sense of scale and it serves as a pleasant focal point of the image. It breathes in more character.
There are several leading lines and geometries to incorporate—the staircase, walls, and ceiling. Get creative and take your time.
Current weather
Ar-Rayyan
Clear
73o
F
Wed
74o
60o
Thu
73o
61o
Fri
75o
64o
Sat
78o
64o
Sun
78o
64o
Blue Hour
02:54
73o
Clear
Sunrise
03:19
73o
Clear
Golden Hour
13:18
73o
Clear
Sunset
13:52
73o
Clear
Do nearby
Absolute *Must Visit* places nearby include: Education City Mosque; Qatar National Library; Ceremonial Court; Education City Stadium; Oxygen Park and Al Shaqab (royal horse stables).