Qatar, a wealthy Arab emirate in the Middle East, is known for its rapid modernization and rich cultural heritage. Located on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, Qatar is bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south and surrounded by the Persian Gulf. The country boasts the second-highest GDP per capita in the world, largely due to its vast oil reserves.
A Glimpse into History: Qatar’s history dates back to prehistoric times, with recent archaeological discoveries indicating early human presence. The 6th millennium BC site at Shagra in southeastern Qatar highlights the significance of the sea in the lives of its ancient inhabitants. Over the centuries, Qatar was dominated by the Ottoman and British empires until it gained independence on September 3, 1971. However, Qatar National Day is celebrated on December 18 each year.
Geography, Environment, & Climate: Jutting 100 miles (161 km) into the Persian Gulf, the Qatari peninsula is slightly smaller than the state of Massachusetts, USA. The landscape is mostly flat and barren, characterized by sand-covered plains. The southeast region features the stunning Khor al Adaid, also known as the “Inland Sea,†where rolling sand dunes meet an inlet of the Persian Gulf. Qatar enjoys mild winters and extremely hot, humid summers, with temperatures ranging from 38°C to 42°C in the summer and 18°C at night. Winters are cooler, with daytime temperatures around 34°C and dropping to 10°C at night.
Population: Qatar is home to approximately 3.1 million people, with expatriates making up the majority. While the official language is Arabic, English is widely spoken alongside numerous other languages, reflecting the diverse expatriate community. The country’s population is predominantly Muslim, with many residents having migrated from South Asia and other Arab nations to work in Qatar’s thriving petrochemical industry.
Currency: The official currency of Qatar is the Qatari Riyal (QAR).
Living as an Expat: Housing: Living in Qatar as an expat offers a unique blend of modern convenience and traditional culture. Most expatriates in Qatar live in rental properties, with many employment contracts including free or subsidized housing. Expat housing in Doha typically consists of compounds with amenities like swimming pools, gyms, and playgrounds. The demand for rental accommodation has surged, leading to a significant increase in rental prices, sometimes tripling in just a few years. Despite the challenges, Doha offers a variety of housing options, from spacious villas to modern apartments, all within easy reach of the city center, schools, and the airport.
Getting There & Around: Getting around Qatar is straightforward, with private transport being the most common mode of travel. Taxis are a popular and affordable option, easily identifiable by their orange and white colors. For a more luxurious experience, Doha Limousine offers 24-hour chauffeur-driven services. Expats can rent a car using their home country’s driving license within the first seven days of arrival, after which a temporary Qatari driving license is required.