The Qatar Foundation Library challenges the typical library layout by organizing the new structure around an open plan where the vastness of the collection is visible from all sides. The sprawling building emerges from the sandy landscape to house activities a large number of activities including a research center, performance hall, meeting and conference rooms, study carrels and a large Heritage Collection area at the heart of the library, designed to be home to some of the oldest maps and geographical globes in the world.

The building was directly commissioned by the head of the Qatar Foundation with the ambition to be the most important center for advancement of the Arts and Sciences.