In news which may be of interest to art fans, Sotheby's in Doha is scheduled to hold a contemporary art sale on March 18th, reports luxist.com.

The Doha branch has only recently been opened by Sotheby's and the March 18th event will be the company's first sale. According to artprice.com, the firm hopes to raise up to $350,000 (£248,815) for Moshiri's Diamond Head.

Famous competitors Christie's and Bonhams already have sites in Doha, developments which may have been driven by last year's 70 per cent surge in art auction revenues which generated nearly $35 million (£24.9 million).

Art industry experts will be watching the scene closely to see how the various companies fare against the wider economic downturn.

People hoping to attend the art sale at Sotheby's could consider booking a Doha hotel before heading out to the region.

The company's website reveals that it was the first firm to arrange online auctions and internet sales have included a first printing of the Declaration of Independence which was sold for over $8 million (£5.7 million).

Book your Stay at the Millennium Hotel Doha.

04/03/2009