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Qatar is a small peninsular nation located on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, projecting into the Persian Gulf. Covering an area of 11,586 square kilometers with a population of approximately 3.1 million people, Qatar is bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south while the rest of its territory is surrounded by the Gulf. The capital city, Doha, is home to about 80% of the country's population and has transformed into a gleaming modern metropolis. Qatar gained independence from British protection in 1971 and has since become one of the world's wealthiest nations. The country is an absolute monarchy ruled by the Al Thani family.

Qatar's geography consists primarily of flat, rocky desert terrain with the highest point reaching only 103 meters above sea level. The landscape is characterized by barren plains, sand dunes, and salt flats, with very limited vegetation due to the harsh climate. Qatar experiences an arid climate with extremely hot summers where temperatures can exceed 50°C, and mild winters. Annual rainfall is scarce, averaging less than 80mm. The country has a coastline extending approximately 563 kilometers, featuring sandy beaches, shallow waters, and extensive coral reefs. Land reclamation projects, particularly around Doha, have expanded the country's territory. The Khor Al Adaid (Inland Sea) in the southeast is a UNESCO-recognized natural reserve and one of the few places where the desert meets the sea.

Qatar possesses the world's third-largest natural gas reserves and is the leading exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG), making it one of the wealthiest countries globally with a GDP per capita of approximately $65,000, among the highest in the world. The economy has been dominated by the oil and gas sector, which accounts for the majority of government revenue and exports. Qatar has been actively pursuing economic diversification through its National Vision 2030, investing heavily in infrastructure, education, healthcare, tourism, and financial services. The country successfully hosted the FIFA World Cup 2022, showcasing its modern infrastructure and global ambitions. Qatar Airways, one of the world's leading airlines, and Al Jazeera, the influential international news network, are both based in Qatar. The country provides citizens with generous social welfare benefits and no income tax.

Qatari culture is rooted in Bedouin traditions and Islamic heritage. Arabic is the official language, though English is widely used in business and among the large expatriate population, which outnumbers Qatari citizens significantly. Islam, specifically Sunni Wahhabi Islam, is the state religion and deeply influences daily life and law. Qatar has invested heavily in becoming a cultural hub, with institutions like the Museum of Islamic Art, the National Museum of Qatar, and the futuristic National Library. Traditional Qatari culture is expressed through falconry, camel racing, and dhow sailing. The country hosts the annual Doha Forum and has become a major center for sports, hosting numerous international events. Qatari cuisine features dishes like machbous and harees, reflecting Arab and Indian influences. While maintaining conservative values, Qatar has embraced modernity and positions itself as a mediator in regional conflicts and a bridge between East and West.

Major Cities

• Doha - The capital with 2.4 million people, home to 80% of Qatar's population and a gleaming modern metropolis with futuristic skyline
• Al Rayyan - Second-largest city with 605,000 people, hosting several FIFA World Cup 2022 stadiums
• Al Wakrah - Southern coastal city with 300,000 people, a traditional fishing village transformed into modern city
• Al Khor - Northern city with 200,000 people, known for its harbor and pearl diving heritage
• Dukhan - Western coastal town with 7,000 people, center of Qatar's oil industry since the 1940s

Interesting Facts

• Qatar has the world's third-largest natural gas reserves and is the leading exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG)
• With a GDP per capita of $65,000, Qatar is one of the wealthiest countries in the world
• Qatar successfully hosted the FIFA World Cup 2022, the first World Cup held in the Middle East
• Al Jazeera, one of the world's most influential news networks, is based in Doha and funded by the Qatari government
• The Museum of Islamic Art in Doha houses one of the world's finest collections of Islamic art spanning 1,400 years
• Expatriates outnumber Qatari citizens by approximately 9 to 1, making it one of the world's most diverse countries