Qatar
Visited
At a glance
- Region
- Western Asia
- Capital
- Doha
- Population
- 2.9 million (2024)
- Area
- 11,586 km²
- Languages
- Arabic
- Currency
- Qatari riyal (QAR)
- Drives on the
- right
- Calling code
- +974
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Before you go
Overview
The State of Qatar is situated in Western Asia on the Qatar Peninsula of the Arabian Peninsula at northeast coast. Qatar is the world’s richest country; this is backed by its large gas and oil reserves which are the third-largest in the world.
The country recorded a population of 2.782 million in 2018. It covers an area of 11,571 km2.
The capital city is Doha. It is situated at the coast of the Persian Gulf famous for its modernistic skyscrapers and advanced architecture generated from Islamic nature like the limestone Museum of Islamic art.
Doha Bay and the skyline of Doha, showing a high-rise district (left) and the Museum of Islamic Art (right).
History
Aldhani dynasty controlled Qatar from 1825 to 1887 when they surrendered to the Ottoman Empire rule.
Afterwards, the country signed a deal with Britain to control its external affairs but remain under their protection.
The oil reserves were discovered in the country in 1939.
It became fully independent from Britain in 1971.
Food & culture
Its culture is based on the traditional Bedouin culture.
The most permanent crop is date palms. Other crops in the region are carrots, potatoes, fodder beets and onions.
The most common dish is machboos which is spiced rice served with a stew and meat.
Wildlife
The main wildlife animals include cape hares, Asiatic jackals, caracals, desert hedgehogs, striped hyenas, Arabian sand gazelles, oryx and wolves and red foxes.
Annual events/ celebrations/ festivals
Aspire International Kite Festival are competitions for kite flying held at Aspire Park.
Al-Shahanina Camel Racinf Festival is held as a racing competition for camels.
Ajyal Youth Film Festival is held to bring people together to screenings and develop creative relations and stimulate cinematic conversations.
Festivals & events
National Day on 18 December, the Doha Film Festival and the Islamic holidays of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are the main celebrations. Qatar hosted the FIFA World Cup in 2022.
Things to see
Museum of Islamic Art, Qatar National Museum and Miho Museum displays the art of the country, history and cultural heritage.
Doha Corniche a 7 KM waterfront esplanade which stretches beside Boha Bay is a tourist attraction site. It is used to host events like Qatar National Day or sports day.
Doha Fort is located at the centre of Doha.
Souq Waqif is a bustling market with restaurants and lounges and sells handicrafts, souvenirs and traditional garments.
Interesting facts
The country has the highest per capita income worldwide. It is the most advanced state for human growth. The country earns a high income due to its oil and gas reserves, which are the third-largest in the world.
The popular Aljazeera media network is owned by the country and it was founded it in 1996.
The state religion is Islam.
The official language is Arabic but English is the most common when conducting business.
Cities & towns I’ve visited
Neighbours
My Bucket List goals in Qatar
None on the list yet. Got a suggestion? Email Dan.