The exhibition Al Nisa / النساء is based on the latest book published by Middle East Archive by curator and founder Romaisa Baddar. Bringing together photographs of women from across the MENA region and does not attempt to speak on their behalf. Instead, the women portrayed are given a voice, allowing them to tell their own stories

Across the MENA region, women live at the intersection of expectation and reality. Women are spoken about often, celebrated, criticised, judged, and idealised, but do we hear from them as often as we hear about them? Life as a woman often means existing within an impossible paradox: being expected to embody tradition, but also to move forward. To remain visible and invisible at once. To be the perfect example of humility while also remaining a physical ideal of beauty.

The exterior of the MAQAM building is covered with large-scale images on the windows, making the exhibition part of everyday life in the neighborhood. Another part of the works is on view in the space and can only be seen during other events taking place at MAQAM.

The exhibition Al Nisa / النساء at MAQAM is on view from 1 October until 20 December 2026.