Explore Qatar

Location:
Qatar

Currency:
Qatari rial (QAR)

Communications:
The telephone code for Qatar: + 974

About:
Archaeologists have uncovered evidence that the Qatar Peninsula, jutting north into the Persian Gulf from Saudi Arabia, was initially inhabited during the Middle East Stone Age.

The Islamic history of this strategic land was influenced over many centuries by the British, Ottomans and Portuguese, as well as by a long series of nomadic Arab tribes.

In the early 20th century, it was a relatively poor Middle East sheikhdom, with pearl production and fishing being its major revenue sources.

Then, in 1939, the discovery of oil and gas transformed it into an influential and rich land for both its current ruling clan ( the Al Thani family ), and for all of its people.

In 1995, the ruling Amir, Sheikh Khalifa, was removed by his son, the current Amir HAMAD bin Khalifa Al Thani. This event helped move Qatar into the most desirable position of having one of the highest per capita incomes in the world, and helped propel Qatar into a progressive Middle East state.

As a by-product, jobs are guaranteed in Qatar, and college education is free. There is no income tax here; all public services are gratis, and all health care is provided by the government. Wow! When does the next plane leave?

And speaking of planes, tourism in Qatar ( mostly to Doha ) has increased rather dramatically; sparkling new hotels ( Las Vegas-like ) stand along the lengthy waterfront, and the traveling-world has finally learned about Qatar's beautiful beaches, and of course, the duty-free shopping.