History

Called the ‘thumb of Arabia’ for its location on the edge of Saudi Arabia, Qatar has a rich and a vibrant history that can be traced back to 4000 BC. Two of the most cherished traditions of the Qataris in centuries gone by were fishing and pearling and these traditions continue even today. However, in the modern era, the unearthing of oil and gas reserves has truly put Qatar on the world map. The economic boom, coupled with the emphasis on tourism, has transformed Qatar from a barren desert to a land of opportunity.

Politics

The Al Thanis rule Qatar and have been doing so since the start of the 18th century. The emergence of Qatar as one of the most thriving Arab states has been possible because of shrewd planning by the present rulers, who are keen to realise the potential of the country’s almost unlimited supply of oil and gas. The Al Thanis total a mere 5% of the country’s estimated population. Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani is the ruler, while his son Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani is the heir apparent.

Religion

Islam is the official religion, but Christians are free to worship in their own homes and in churches in and around Doha. Mosques, which are built and run by the state, are numbered in the hundreds, and the call to prayer is made five times a day. Two Eid days—the traditional Muslim celebrations—are national holidays. Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, is adhered to by all adult Muslims.

Economy

Qatar sits on huge oil and gas resources, making it one of the richest nations in the world. With oil reserves of 15.2 million barrels and gas reserves of 900 trillion cubic feet, it has one of the highest per capita incomes in the world. Qatar has the third-largest gas reserves after Russia and Iran, and it is using its wealth to good effect to boost tourism and other development sectors.

Population

Most of Qatar’s inhabitants reside in Doha. Expatriates make up almost 80% of the population of 840,000. Indian nationals are the dominant community, with more than a 100,000 living in Qatar. Pakistanis, Filipinos, Sri Lankans, Bangladeshis and Britons make up the rest of the population, in that order, while native Qataris number nearly 125,000.