Have you ever played that game where you have to name countries by letter? And then, boom, you’re asked for a country starting with Q… You’re stumped. Spoiler: there’s only one. But not just any one. Welcome to Qatar, a little gem nestled between desert and futuristic modernity. Hang on, I’m taking you to discover this fascinating country (and no, it won’t be boring).
Where is this famous Qatar hiding?
Qatar is this peninsula perched on the Arabian Peninsula, bathed by the azure blue waters of the Persian Gulf. If you look at a map, it’s very close to Saudi Arabia and not so far from the United Arab Emirates. Small in size (just 11,000 km²), but big in potential. It’s a bit like the “small but mighty” of the Middle East.
Some facts to shine in society:
- Capital: Doha
- Population: Approximately 2.9 million inhabitants
- Official language: Arabic (but English is everywhere)
- Currency: Qatari Riyal (QAR)
Why you already know a bit about Qatar (without knowing it)
Do you think you’ve never heard of Qatar? Think again. If you followed the 2022 World Cup, bingo! That’s where it happened. Qatar didn’t hold back on resources to organize one of the most-watched events in the world. Ultra-modern stadiums, five-star hotels, and completely crazy projects like The Pearl, an artificial island shaped like a pearl (original, right?).
Qatar in express mode: what you absolutely need to know
Qatar is a bit like a modern mirage in the desert. Imagine: skyscrapers that rival those in New York, souks that transport you back in time, and paradise beaches where the sand seems endless.
1. Doha: between tradition and futurism
Doha is the showcase of Qatar. You’ll find everything there: ultra-designed museums (hello Islamic Art Museum), gigantic shopping malls (where even indoor ski slopes are not left out) and a skyline that would make Dubai blush. But Doha is also the old souk where you can buy spices, carpets, and even a falcon (yes, yes).
Some must-sees in Doha:
- Souq Waqif: guaranteed 1001 nights atmosphere
- Doha Corniche: the perfect promenade to admire the skyline
- The Pearl: luxury, yachts, and designer boutiques
2. The desert as far as the eye can see
Where Qatar becomes magical is as soon as you leave the city. The Khor Al Adaid desert awaits you with its golden dunes. And guess what? It houses an inland sea (rare enough to be mentioned). You can venture in a 4×4, or even spend the night under a Bedouin tent. “Lawrence of Arabia” vibe guaranteed.
Qatar and business: a success story
Qatar doesn’t mess around when it comes to the economy. It sits on a true treasure of hydrocarbons. Result? The country is one of the richest in the world. But don’t think they’re resting on their laurels. Qatar is diversifying big time: education, tourism, sports… They are everywhere.
Some dizzying numbers:
| Sector | Contribution to GDP |
|---|---|
| Gas and oil | 56% |
| Services | 37% |
| Industry | 7% |
Want to visit Qatar? Here’s what you need to know
Traveling to Qatar is easy (and frankly recommended). Hamad International Airport is a major hub. You can stop there or spend a few days. And trust me, it’s worth the detour.
Check-list for your trip:
- Visa: Most nationalities don’t need a visa (yay).
- Climate: Hot, very hot. The best time to go is between November and March.
- Transport: Taxis and Uber are everywhere. But renting a car to explore is great.
Qatar in numbers (because it’s always useful)
| Data | Number |
|---|---|
| Area | 11,571 km² |
| GDP per capita | $61,000 |
| Average temperature | 27°C (with peaks at 45°C) |
Why you should add Qatar to your bucket list
Qatar is this improbable mix of luxury, tradition, and adventures in the desert. And frankly, it’s the kind of place that leaves you with unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a football fan, a lover of desert landscapes, or curious about cultures around the world, Qatar has something to offer you.
And if one day someone asks you for a country starting with Q, you’ll be unbeatable. So, ready to explore this corner of the globe? Share this article with your friends and let yourself be tempted by a trip like no other.
Pascal Petibon, born in 1980 in Lyon, is a renowned journalist and author, passionate about information and communication. After earning a degree in journalism from the University of Paris, he quickly joined various editorial teams, where he became known for his sharp analysis and clear writing style.
