Qatar is a peninsular Arab country whose terrain comprises arid desert and a long Persian (Arab) Gulf shoreline of beaches and dunes. Also on the coast is the capital, Doha, known for its futuristic skyscrapers and other ultramodern architecture inspired by ancient Islamic design, such as the limestone Museum of Islamic Art. The museum sits on the city’s Corniche waterfront promenade.
Qatar has been ruled as a hereditary monarchy by the House of Thani since Mohammed bin Thani signed a treaty with the British in 1868 that recognised its separate status. Following Ottoman rule, Qatar became a British protectorate in 1916, and gained independence in 1971. The current emir is Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who holds nearly all executive and legislative authority under the Constitution of Qatar, as well as controlling the judiciary. He appoints the prime minister and cabinet. The partially-elected Consultative Assembly can block legislation and has a limited ability to dismiss ministers.
Infused with the thrills of unlimited excitement and fun, the Doha Desert is largely untouched. Nothing is more scenic and picturesque than the vast expanse of sandy desert. You are sure going to feel awed by the sheer magnificence of the size of this extraordinary landscape.
As you wade your way through miles and miles of sand, a fierce fortress looms in front of you out of nowhere. The grandeur of this UNESCO-designated fort is unique in itself. Many tourists arrive at the fort on camel back, while some travel by jeep. It seems as if the fort narrates its story to the visitors. Just stand in front of the fort and look at it.
Qatar is known for its incredible history, and this museum seems to have given a voice to its rich cultural heritage. The museums narrate a beautiful story about how the country evolved, developed, and became modern, as we see today.
Qatar is a land where tradition meets modernity. It is a country whose people are rooted in their heritage while maintaining an eye on the the future, and Qatar’s growing global role in business, politics, and education. This is where ancient dwellings are only are only a stone’s throw from world class museums, glistening malls, desert adventures, and international sports venues.
1. Qatar has a rich and storied history that's visible nearly everywhere you look, from the architecture and museums to UNESCO World Heritage sites and marketplaces. 2. A must-visit is the National Museum of Qatar, designed in the fashion of a desert rose. ALRIWAQ is an art gallery and museum that was initially a temporary venue but became so popular for its design that it became a permanent exhibition space. 3.Qatar caters to locals and travellers with its wide array of shopping options. In Doha especially, luxurious shopping malls house some of the most renowned labels in the fashion world. You could spend an entire day just browsing the Mall of Qatar 4.Now, this fun fact about Qatar shouldn't be the most surprising to you. Pretty much all of Qatar and the United Arab Emirates is a desert landscape with very few forests and greenery. Most of the trees and green landscapes are human-made. 5.One of the most interesting facts on Qatar is that the country is known for being the first to make purple dye out of shellfish. The inhabitants of Al Khor Island hold this honor.
Arabic is the official language of Qatar, with Qatari Arabic or Gulf Arabic the local dialect. Qatari Sign Language is the language of the deaf community. English is commonly used as a second language, and a rising lingua franca, especially in commerce, those from other countries, and the medical community.
The country offers a blend of tradition and modernity that’s difficult to find elsewhere in the world. Qatar celebrates its heritage, but still offers newcomers and travellers modern amenities, hotels and infrastructure, and a mix of international cultures, cuisines and lifestyles. From skydiving over the Arabian Gulf to scuba diving beneath its waters, and from climbing sand dunes to exploring ancient forts, Qatar is the place to be if adventure is what you seek on your holiday.