Qatar Contemporary History Series is a two-part programme on researching Qatar’s contemporary history and politics. Led by Professor Mahjoob Zweiri, it combines an introductory lecture with a practical workshop at Qatar National Library.
The lecture explains how to formulate a clear research question, choose an appropriate methodology and evaluate primary and secondary sources. The materials discussed include official documents, archives, interviews, media sources and academic literature, alongside the methodological and ethical issues involved in using them.
Lecture on methods and sources
Research Skills in the Study of Qatar's Contemporary History: Methods and Sources takes place on 26 September. It introduces the main stages of historical and political research within Qatari, Gulf, regional and international contexts.
Practical research workshop
Practical Applications in Research Skills follows on 27 September. Participants work with cases connected to Qatar’s contemporary history and cover:
- Research questions and hypotheses
- Source selection and material organisation
- Archives and digital resources
- Critical analysis
- Academic referencing and reference lists
- Short research proposals or preliminary project outlines
Attendance at the lecture is not required for the workshop, although it may provide useful background. Workshop participants receive an electronic attendance certificate.
Schedule and venue
- Lecture: 26 September 2026, 4:00 pm–5:30 pm
- Workshop: 27 September 2026, 8:00 am–2:30 pm
- Venue: Qatar National Library, Doha
Participation is listed from QAR 0, with registration available through Qatar National Library.
