11.10.2008
About Qatar
Where is Qatar?
Qatar is the peninsula state situated in the heart of the Arabian Gulf. It is approximately 160km in length and 80km in width at its widest point. The land mass of the country largely consists of low lying desert plains, rising to only 100m at its highest point.
The coastline of Qatar extends for 560 km, while the only land border of 60 km separates the country from Saudi Arabia.
Qatar enjoys a typical desert climate, with mild winters and very limited rainfall. The average winter temperatures are between 20-30°C, while during the summer the thermometer frequently registers over 40°C.
History of Qatar
Evidence of early civilisation in Qatar stretches back thousands of years, with pottery shards dating from around 2500BC found at more than one location. In the 5th century BC, the Greek historian Herodotus referred to the original seafaring inhabitants of Qatar. Qatar was famed for its weaving and embroidery, especially its cloaks.
Qatar gained independence from Great Britain on 3 September 1971, having been a British Protectorate since 1916. The present Amir, His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, is the eighth member of the family to rule the country.
Political History of Qatar
Qatar has enjoyed political stability and economic prosperity since independence in 1971 and has successfully evolved into a modern state.
Qatar enacted its constitution in 1972. The move towards a modern society included holding municipal elections in 1999 where men and women were both voters and candidates – a first in the Arabian Gulf.
The evolution of a modern society in Qatar is evident in all aspects of society, including health and educational services and the economy. As a committed member of the World Trade Organisation and international financing organisations, Qatar has completed its integration into the international community.
Qatar has been blessed with valuable natural resources. It has the third largest natural gas reserves in the world and has made huge investments in the development and infrastructure of the country. It also has a proud history of making benevolent donations to some of the poorest and most underdeveloped regions across the globe, through state sponsored charitable organisations such as ‘Reach Out to Asia.'
Qatar has also positioned itself as a stage for solving international disputes by initiating several mediation efforts in regional and international disputes.
