[3] The core of the museum's holdings is Kanoo's own collection of Qur'anic manuscripts and Islamic art, since he was reportedly said to have been an avid collector.

In 1990, he donated his collection to the museum he established to operate a first-of-its-kind institution dedicated to the service of the Qur'an and the preservation of historic manuscripts.

[2] The establishment of the institute was funded completely by public donations, with added help from a variety of people from all walks of life in Bahrain, ranging from heads of state to school children.

The Mihrab, the sign indicating the direction to Mecca, is covered in blue ceramic tiles with engraved Al Qursi Qur'anic verse.

The school offers seven study areas fully equipped with computers and modern aids, with separate classes for women and children learning the Qur'an.

[8] The Al Hayat Museum consists of ten halls spread over two floors exhibiting rare Qur'anic manuscripts from the first century Hijra (700 AD).