Qatar Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Qatar, state and independent emirate on the Arabian Peninsula coast towards the Persian Gulf; 11 440 km², 2.8 million residents (2019).Qatar is located on a peninsula that has a land connection in the south and extends 180 km north. The country borders the south to Saudi Arabia. In 2001, a long-standing border dispute with Saudi Arabia was resolved and the final border demarcation was carried out in 2008. The capital is Doha (521,300 residents, 2011).

Country facts

Dawlat al-Qaṭar / State of Qatar
Country abbreviation: QA
Area: 11 440 km²
Population (2019): 2.8 million residents
Capital: Doha
Main languages: Arabic
State: Monarchy
Head of State: Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani (emir)
Head of Government: Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 69,026
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 61,190
Currency unit: 1 Qatar riyal = 100 dirhams
Currency code: QAR
Country Dialing (Telephony): 974
Internet domain name: qa
Time difference compared to Sweden: +2
National Day: September 3 (Independence Day, 1971)

Nature

Land use: agricultural land (1%), other (99%)
Highest mountain: Qurayn Abu al Bawl (103 m asl)

Population

Population density (2019): 245 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 0.9%; birth number 10 ‰, death number 1 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (14%), 15-64 (85%), 65- (1%)
Average life expectancy (2019): men 79 years, women 82 years
Infant mortality (2019): 6 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 4 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.856 (place 37 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 100%
Most populous city (2011): Doha (521,300 residents)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): industry (50%), service (50%)
Exports (2017): US $ 67,500 million
Main export products: natural gas, oil products
Main exporting countries: Japan, South Korea, India
Imports (2017): US $ 30,770 million
Main import products: machinery, transport, food
Main Importing Countries: United States, China, United Arab Emirates
Railway network: nothing in operation

Geography of Qatar

Location and Size

Qatar is a small peninsula located in the Middle East, on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. It is bordered by the Persian Gulf to the north, east, and west, and shares a land border with Saudi Arabia to the south. Qatar covers an area of approximately 11,586 square kilometers, making it one of the smallest countries in the world, yet it is highly influential in global geopolitics due to its wealth and strategic location. The country’s shape is that of a small peninsula extending into the Persian Gulf, and it has a coastline of about 563 kilometers.

The capital city, Doha, is located on the eastern coast of the peninsula and serves as the political, economic, and cultural hub of the country. Other major cities and towns in Qatar are relatively small in comparison, with much of the population concentrated in and around Doha.

Topography

Qatar’s topography is primarily flat and arid, with a desert landscape dominating much of the country. There are no rivers or mountains, but it has numerous sand dunes, salt flats, and rocky plains. The coastline, while rugged in some areas, consists largely of sandy beaches and small peninsulas. One of the notable natural features of the country is the Khor Al Adaid, also known as the Inland Sea, a large body of water surrounded by sand dunes that is a UNESCO recognized natural reserve.

Despite its desert environment, Qatar is home to a variety of flora and fauna that have adapted to the harsh climate. In recent decades, the country has undertaken significant efforts to improve the local environment, including water desalination projects, afforestation initiatives, and the creation of green spaces in urban areas.

Climate of Qatar

Hot Desert Climate

Qatar experiences an arid, hot desert climate, characterized by high temperatures and low annual rainfall. The summer months, from May to September, are extremely hot, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) and occasionally reaching 50°C (122°F). These temperatures are particularly harsh, and people living in Qatar tend to spend much of their time indoors during the peak summer months to avoid heat exhaustion.

The winter season, from November to March, brings milder temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Nights during the winter can become quite cool, especially in the desert areas, where temperatures may drop below 10°C (50°F).

Rainfall is scarce in Qatar, with the majority of precipitation occurring between November and February. However, the amount of rainfall is minimal, averaging around 75 millimeters annually, which contributes to the country’s desert environment. Sandstorms are also common during the spring months, particularly in March and April, further emphasizing the harsh climatic conditions.

Humidity and Wind

Due to its proximity to the Persian Gulf, Qatar experiences high humidity levels, especially during the summer. Humidity can exceed 90% during the early mornings, making the heat feel even more oppressive. The wind, particularly the Shamal wind, plays a significant role in the climate by bringing cooler air during the summer months and creating occasional dust storms.

People of Qatar

Population Demographics

Qatar has a population of approximately 2.9 million people, with a large majority of the population being expatriates. Qatar’s native population, or Qataris, comprises only about 12-15% of the total population, while the rest consists of migrant workers from countries like India, Nepal, the Philippines, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The large influx of foreign workers has been driven by Qatar’s rapid economic growth, particularly due to the oil and natural gas industries, which require a substantial workforce for construction, infrastructure development, and services.

Qatar has one of the highest per capita income rates in the world, largely due to its vast natural gas and oil reserves, which have contributed to an influx of wealth and a booming economy. This has led to significant urban development, especially in the capital, Doha, where skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and modern infrastructure are prominent.

Language and Religion

The official language of Qatar is Arabic, and it is widely spoken by the local population. However, English is also widely used, especially in business and government settings, due to the international nature of Qatar’s workforce and its reliance on global trade. Many expatriates from South Asia and other regions also speak their native languages in the workplace and communities.

Islam is the official religion of Qatar, and the vast majority of Qataris (around 67%) adhere to Sunni Islam, with a small percentage practicing Shia Islam. The influence of Islam permeates all aspects of life in Qatar, including legal frameworks, cultural practices, and social norms. The country is known for its conservative Islamic practices, especially in terms of dress codes, gender roles, and public behavior.

Gender and Society

While Qatari society is conservative in nature, particularly when compared to Western norms, significant changes have been taking place in recent years. Women in Qatar are allowed to drive, vote, and participate in the workforce, though they are still subject to certain societal restrictions, particularly in public spaces and in terms of dress. Many women in Qatar choose to wear the traditional black abaya, and some also wear the niqab or face veil.

The government has also taken steps to improve gender equality, with initiatives aimed at increasing the representation of women in leadership positions and public life. Despite these advancements, there are still challenges related to gender equality, and many women face societal pressure to conform to traditional roles within the family and community.

Economy of Qatar

Energy Industry

Qatar’s economy is primarily driven by its vast reserves of oil and natural gas. The country possesses the world’s third-largest reserves of natural gas, and it is one of the largest exporters of liquefied natural gas (LNG). This has enabled Qatar to achieve rapid economic growth over the past few decades and to maintain one of the highest GDP per capita rates globally.

Qatar has strategically invested its wealth in a variety of sectors, including finance, real estate, infrastructure, and technology. The government’s plans for diversification have resulted in the development of several large-scale projects, such as the construction of the Hamad International Airport, the Qatar National Convention Centre, and the expansion of the education and health sectors.

Infrastructure Development

Infrastructure development is a cornerstone of Qatar’s economic vision. The country has invested heavily in its transportation network, including highways, rail systems, and ports. Qatar’s hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup spurred additional investment in stadiums, hotels, and public transportation systems, including the development of a metro system in Doha. This significant investment in infrastructure is part of Qatar’s long-term plan to create a sustainable economy that is not solely dependent on energy resources.

In addition to physical infrastructure, Qatar has also made considerable strides in the financial sector, establishing itself as a regional financial hub. Doha’s financial district is home to numerous banks, investment firms, and insurance companies, making it a key player in the global financial market.

Labor Market and Immigration

The Qatari labor market is heavily reliant on foreign workers, with migrant laborers making up the majority of the workforce. These workers are employed in construction, hospitality, healthcare, and other industries, and they play a critical role in the country’s economic development. However, labor rights issues have been a source of controversy in Qatar, particularly concerning the treatment of migrant workers and working conditions on large construction projects like those associated with the World Cup.

In response to criticism from international human rights organizations, Qatar has introduced several labor reforms, including the implementation of a minimum wage and changes to the “kafala” sponsorship system, which had been criticized for creating conditions of modern-day slavery.

Government of Qatar

Political System

Qatar is an absolute monarchy ruled by the Al Thani family, which has been in power since the mid-19th century. The current emir, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, has been in power since 2013, following the abdication of his father. Qatar’s political system is characterized by centralized authority, with the emir having vast powers over government policy, the military, and foreign affairs.

While Qatar does not have political parties, the country does have a partially elected advisory council, known as the Shura Council. In 2021, Qatar held its first ever elections for two-thirds of the council members, with the remaining members appointed by the emir. This move was seen as a step toward more political participation, although critics argue that it does not represent a significant shift toward democracy.

Legal System

Qatar’s legal system is based on a mix of Islamic law (Sharia), civil law, and customary law. Sharia law plays an important role in family matters, such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance, while civil law governs most other legal issues. In recent years, Qatar has undertaken several legal reforms aimed at modernizing its legal system and attracting foreign investment, including changes to labor laws, property ownership laws, and business regulations.

Foreign Policy

Qatar has pursued an independent and active foreign policy, leveraging its wealth and strategic location to build strong relationships with both regional and international powers. The country is a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and has strong ties with the United States, France, and other Western nations. It also plays a significant role in regional diplomacy, acting as a mediator in conflicts in the Middle East and supporting various political movements across the Arab world.

Despite its strong relationships with Western countries, Qatar’s foreign policy has sometimes put it at odds with its neighbors. For instance, Qatar’s support for groups like the Muslim Brotherhood and its close ties with Iran have led to tensions with other Gulf states, particularly Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which led to a diplomatic blockade of Qatar in 2017. The blockade was lifted in early 2021, signaling a return to regional cooperation.

Culture of Qatar

Arts and Literature

Qatar has a rich cultural heritage that blends Islamic, Arab, and global influences. The country is home to a growing arts scene, with a particular focus on Islamic art, modern art, and architecture. The Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, one of the most notable cultural institutions in the country, showcases a vast collection of Islamic artifacts from across the world. In addition, the country is investing in contemporary art and has hosted various international art exhibitions and biennales.

Qatari literature is also thriving, with an emerging body of writers, poets, and novelists who explore themes related to identity, modernity, and the blending of traditional and contemporary values. Qatar is home to the Doha International Book Fair, which attracts authors and publishers from around the world.

Festivals and Traditions

Qatar is known for its traditional festivals and celebrations, which often revolve around Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. The country also celebrates Qatar National Day on December 18th, which marks the anniversary of the founding of the modern state of Qatar.

The local culture is heavily influenced by Bedouin traditions, which are reflected in Qatar’s music, dance, and dress. The Al Arda, a traditional sword dance, is a popular cultural expression, and falconry remains an important part of Qatari heritage.

Cuisine

Qatari cuisine is a reflection of its historical trade links with India, Persia, and Africa. Traditional dishes include machboos, a spiced rice dish with meat or fish, and harees, a dish made from wheat and meat, often served during Ramadan. Qatar’s food scene also features international cuisine, with a growing number of fine dining restaurants offering everything from Lebanese to French cuisine, serving the diverse expatriate population.

History of Qatar

Early History and Settlement

Qatar’s history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlement on the peninsula as early as the 4th century BCE. Throughout its early history, Qatar was influenced by various civilizations, including the Persians, the Greeks, and the Arabs. The region was known for its pearl diving industry, which was a major economic activity before the discovery of oil.

British Protectorate and Independence

In the 19th century, Qatar became a British protectorate, with the British providing military protection while allowing the ruling Al Thani family to govern locally. Qatar gained full independence from Britain in 1971, after the British withdrew from their Gulf protectorates. The country quickly began to develop its oil and gas reserves, which have shaped its modern identity and helped it become one of the wealthiest nations in the world.

Modern Development

Since independence, Qatar has undergone rapid modernization, particularly in the last few decades, with a focus on infrastructure, education, and health care. The country has also used its vast wealth to position itself as a regional and global player in politics, media, and culture. The 2022 FIFA World Cup was a defining moment in Qatar’s development, showcasing the country’s ambition and its ability to host major international events.