At a time when the worlds of art and nation-states are increasingly merging, Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Qatar's leading figure and style icon, has captured international attention with an appearance that has already become a symbol of luxury and soft power.
During the first edition of Art Basel Qatar – the prestigious contemporary art fair coming to the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia for the first time, and held in Doha in partnership between Art Basel, Qatar Sports Investments and QC+ – the sheikh did not go unnoticed.
In an elegant and striking all-black outfit, Moza wore a ring with a blue diamond estimated to be worth over $50 million, known for its rarity and chromatic purity. This type of stone, among the most sought-after in the world, made her look an instant hit with international media and gemstone enthusiasts.
But the real surprise was Edmond Chin's sculptural necklace, crafted from tanzanite, diamonds, and organic materials, which many critics called not just a statement piece but a true wearable work of art—a bridge between contemporary design and jewelry craftsmanship.
Moza's presence at this important fair must be seen within a broader dimension of cultural diplomacy: Qatar has worked in recent years to consolidate Doha as a regional capital of international art and collecting. The inauguration of Art Basel Qatar and the numerous ongoing cultural projects testify to this ambition.
Sheikha Moza, in addition to frequently drawing attention to her style, has a long history of institutional and social commitment. She is the co-founder and president of the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF), and has promoted global projects for education, innovation, and social development, including working with the United Nations.
Moza's reputation as a style icon is well-established: she has been included in numerous international fashion rankings and is often associated with a haute couture wardrobe and historic and rare jewelry collections. Her personal accessory collection, which includes pieces by Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, and other masters of fine jewelry, is considered among the most sumptuous in the world.
Her role goes beyond aesthetics: Moza has been a leading figure in public initiatives for years, from launching educational summits to promoting culture, health, and social rights. She has also recently presided over important ceremonies related to prominent cultural institutions, such as the opening of exhibitions dedicated to pearls and Islamic art in Doha.
Moza bint Nasser's appearance at Art Basel Qatar is much more than a stylish moment: it is the perfect synthesis of global art, cultural diplomacy, and luxury, a tangible symbol of the strategy with which Doha is redefining its role on the international stage.