Qatar
A small peninsula of desert and coastline jutting into the Persian Gulf, Qatar has transformed within a single generation from a pearl-diving economy into one of the world's wealthiest states, its skyline of glass towers rising from flat, sun-bleached terrain.
Overview
Qatar occupies an 11,586 km² peninsula on the northeastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula, bordered only by Saudi Arabia to the south and surrounded elsewhere by the Gulf. The capital, Doha, holds the vast majority of the population. Arabic is the official language; English is widely used in business. The currency is the Qatari riyal. Society blends Bedouin heritage with a large expatriate majority, producing a culture shaped simultaneously by Islamic tradition and rapid modernisation.
Visa Requirements
Nationals of many countries — including much of Europe, North America, and parts of Asia — may enter Qatar visa-free or obtain a visa on arrival. Qatar also operates an eVisa system allowing advance online applications. Requirements vary by nationality, so travellers should consult Qatar's official immigration portal before departure for current conditions and permitted stays.
Airports in Qatar
1 airportAirlines based in Qatar
1 airline
Famous Attractions in Qatar
Doha's Museum of Islamic Art, designed by I. M. Pei on a purpose-built island, houses one of the world's most comprehensive collections of Islamic objects. The Souq Waqif in central Doha is a restored traditional market dating to the early twentieth century. The limestone rock formations at Zekreet provide an otherworldly desert landscape. Al Zubarah, a UNESCO-listed eighteenth-century coastal trading town, sits preserved in the northwest. The Katara Cultural Village hosts performing arts and galleries on Doha's northern waterfront.
Weather & Climate
Qatar has an arid desert climate. Summers run from May through September, with temperatures regularly exceeding 40 °C and high humidity along the coast making conditions oppressive. Winters are mild and dry, with temperatures between 14 °C and 24 °C. The most comfortable period for outdoor activity is November through March. Rain is infrequent throughout the year. Visitors in summer should pack lightweight, breathable clothing and expect most activity to be indoors during midday.
Interesting Facts About Qatar
- World's highest GDP per capita by some measures.
- Hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup in the Gulf.
- Pearl diving sustained the economy before oil discovery.
- Al Jazeera international news network is headquartered here.
- Qatar holds the world's third-largest natural gas reserves.
Official Resources
- visitqatar.qa — Qatar Tourism, the official national tourism authority
- moi.gov.qa — Ministry of Interior, immigration and visa information
- qatarairways.com — Qatar Airways, the national carrier
- qma.com.qa — Qatar Museums, governing body for national museums and cultural sites