Qatar Alive
Your go-to guide for living, driving, and traffic rules. Essential tips for expats to thrive in Qatar.
Qatar IDs & Visas
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Qatar Life & Events
Why to Travel Qatar
The pearl island
The amazing fact about Pearl Island in Doha, Qatar, is that it is not a natural but a man-made island. It incorporates Arabian, European, and Mediterranean architecture that reflects Qatar’s heritage and simultaneous advancement.
Khor al Adaid
It is one of the few places in the world where sand dunes merge with the sea, offering breathtaking views. It is also known as The Inland Sea.
Museum of Islamic Art
This museum of Islamic Art in Qatar is built on an artificial projecting peninsula. Its collection displays antique Islamic art including textiles, ceramics, jewels, woodwork, and glass from three continents over 1400 years.
Souq Waqif
As the name Suoq Waqif (Standing market) suggests it is a compelling marketplace in Doha, Qatar for expats. Along with goods, handmade crafts, and textiles, this market is famous for selling Falcons.
The Al Thumama Stadium
Al Thumama Stadium which hosted the FIFA World Cup in 2022 is designed in a way to symbolize Gahfiyah a traditional cap of Qatar. This displays the country’s pride on a global stage.
Msheireb Downtown Doha
The first sustainable downtown regeneration project globally, aligning the magnificent lines of modern architecture with Qatar’s heritage, energy-efficient buildings, and state-of-the-art technology.
Al Zubara Fort
Al Zubara is a military fort situated on the northwestern coast of Qatar, to guard the derelict town of Zubara. The town preserves the history of urban life in the Persian Gulf before oil and gas were discovered.
National Museum of Qatar
This museum displays Qatar’s heritage and modern-day advancement. It includes a vast collection of about 8000 objects including architectural material, handicrafts, arts, books, jewelry, and antiques. Besides the huge collection, there is the audiovisual representation of Qatar’s progress.
Al Thakira Mangrove forest
This forest situated in northern Qatar, is the oldest mangrove forest. The forest presents a serene environment and tranquil atmosphere, a beautiful spot for migratory birds and nature lovers.
Katara Cultural village
Katara village, a commercial complex situated in Doha, Qatar hosts several cultural organizations of art, dance, poetry, music, sports, literature, hunting, and falconry. There is a huge amphitheater for relevant performances.
Exciting Facts About Qatar
Qatar is the world’s richest country situated in the Persian Gulf. The Emir of Qatar is Sheikh Tamim ibn Hamad Al Thani
Its economy runs with relentless speed fostering International interests in natural resources, innovation, and global partnerships like hosting the FIFA World Cup.
Qatar is a symbol of cultural preservation and rapid progress. It is reflected in iconic landmarks like the Souq Waqif and Museum of Islamic Art that preserve centuries of artistic heritage, while Katara Cultural Village celebrates music, theater, and art. From the striking Al Zubara Fort to the miracles of Khor Al Adaid in the vast desert of Qatar, this country adds to your experience as a resident and visitor.
Capital | Doha |
Area | 11,581 square km |
Population | 3.06 million (Sep 2024) |
GDP | $357.338 billion |
Per Capita | $138,910 |
Currency | Qatari Riyal (QAR) |
Time Zone | UTC+3 (AST) |
Calling Code | +974 |
National Symbols of Qatar
National Flag
The flag of Qatar is maroon colored having a white serrated band with nine points. The maroon color represents the bloodshed of Qataris and the white color symbolizes unity and peace.
National Bird
Falcon is very revered in Qatari society and is associated with the traditional sport of falconry.
National Dress
For Men: The white robe Thobe with the headscarf Ghutra and black cord Agal.
For Women: The black cloak Abay and the hijab.
National Flower
Qataf (Limonium) is a desert flower that grows in highly arid conditions.
National Animal
Arabian Oryx, a majestic, strong, and resistant desert antelope, symbol of strength and pride.
National Currency
Qatari Riyal (QAR) is officially used in Qatar. 1 USD equals 3.63 QAR.
National Sport
Football and Falconry. The very popular one is football, and the second one is a traditional sport in Qatar.
Qatar Helpline Numbers for Emergency
Sectors | Within The State Of Qatar | Helpline Numbers |
---|---|---|
Emergency Number | 999 | – |
Govt Technical Support | 190 | +974 4406 9999 |
Hayya Helpline | 800 2022 | +974 4441 2022 |
MOPH Helpline | 16000 | +974 4406 9963 |