facts about Qatar
Welcome to a journey through the intriguing and lesser-known facts about Qatar, a country that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity.
Nestled on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, Qatar is a land of captivating contrasts and vibrant culture.
From its futuristic skyline in Doha to its expansive desert landscapes, Qatar offers a unique travel experience.
Beyond the well-known attractions, numerous fun facts about Qatar make this destination even more fascinating.
Did you know that Qatar has one of the highest per capita incomes in the world? Or that it’s home to the world’s longest continuous artificial waterfront promenade, the Doha Corniche? Moreover, its well-preserved heritage sites and museums show Qatar’s rich history.
Join us as we delve into interesting facts about Qatar and uncover what makes Qatar a truly remarkable place to visit, filled with surprises at every corner.
01. The first Middle Eastern country to host major FIFA Football event
Qatar made history as the first Middle Eastern country to host a major 2022 FIFA football World Cup.
This groundbreaking tournament showcased Qatar’s ability to blend its rich cultural heritage with cutting-edge technology and infrastructure. The event featured state-of-the-art stadiums designed to reflect Qatari culture, such as the iconic Al Janoub Stadium, Al Bayt Stadium, Al Thumama Stadium and Khalifa Stadium.
Qatar’s strategic location and world-class facilities offer fans a unique and inclusive experience worldwide.
The successful hosting of the World Cup was a significant milestone for Qatar, marking it as a premier destination for international sports events. The flawless execution of the tournament, the world-class facilities, and the unique cultural blend showcased Qatar’s ability to host such events with excellence.
02. Safest country to travel
Qatar is one of the safest countries in the Middle East and consistently ranks high on global safety indices.
With its low crime rates, efficient law enforcement, and comprehensive security measures, residents and visitors enjoy a sense of peace and security in Qatar.
The nation’s commitment to public safety extends to its robust healthcare system and well-maintained infrastructure.
This dedication to safety and well-being makes Qatar not only a secure place to live and travel but also an attractive destination for international visitors.
03. unique weekend holidays
In Qatar, the weekend falls on Friday and Saturday, unlike the Saturday and Sunday weekends typical in many other countries.
This unique schedule aligns with the Islamic tradition, where Friday is a holy day dedicated to special prayers and family gatherings, emphasizing the importance of family in Qatari culture.
As a result, most businesses and tourist attractions are closed on Fridays, especially in the afternoon, allowing locals and expatriates to participate in religious activities and spend quality time with loved ones.
Saturdays serve as a day of relaxation and leisure before the workweek resumes on Sunday.
This distinctive weekend arrangement reflects Qatar’s cultural and religious values, offering a unique rhythm to daily life in the country.
04. One of the Wealthiest Countries in the World
Qatar is renowned as one of the wealthiest countries in the world, boasting a high GDP per capita fueled primarily by its vast natural gas and oil reserves.
This wealth has enabled Qatar to invest heavily in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, transforming it into a modern and prosperous nation.
The capital city, Doha, features a skyline with cutting-edge skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and cultural landmarks. Qatar’s economic prosperity also supports a high standard of living for its citizens and residents.
The nation’s financial strength and strategic investments continue to drive its rapid development and global influence.
05. Qatar Airways is one of the best airlines in the world
Qatar Airways is celebrated as one of the best airlines in the world, recognized for its exceptional service, luxurious amenities, and extensive global network.
Consistently awarded for its excellence, the airline offers unparalleled comfort with spacious seating, gourmet dining, and cutting-edge in-flight entertainment.
Qatar Airways’ state-of-the-art fleet connects over 160 destinations worldwide, making it a preferred choice for both business and leisure travellers.
The airline’s commitment to quality extends to its premium lounges and exceptional customer service, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.
06. The Best Airports in the Middle East
For the seventh consecutive year, Hamad International Airport in Doha has been named the Best Airport in the Middle East.
This award highlights its exceptional facilities, seamless passenger experience, and innovative services.
As a major hub for Qatar Airways, the airport offers state-of-the-art amenities, including luxury lounges, diverse dining options, and extensive shopping outlets.
Its efficient operations ensure minimal wait times, while art installations and a serene ambiance enhance the travel experience.
Consistently setting benchmarks in airport excellence, Hamad International Airport continues to be a leader in the aviation industry, making it a top choice for travelers worldwide.
07. The falcon is the national bird of Qatar.
The falcon, Qatar’s national bird, symbolizes strength and cultural heritage, with falconry being a deeply rooted tradition.
Falconry in Qatar, practised for centuries, reflects the bond between humans and nature, showcasing skills in training these magnificent birds. The Falcon Souq in Doha is central to this tradition, where enthusiasts gather to trade and admire falcons.
Nearby Falcon Souq, the Falcon Hospital in Souq Waqif, offers specialized care, ensuring the health and well-being of these prized birds.
This hospital, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, underscores Qatar’s dedication to preserving its cultural heritage and the majestic falcon’s esteemed status.
08. The national Dish is Machboos
The national dish of Qatar is Machboos, a flavorful and aromatic rice dish that reflects the country’s rich culinary heritage.
Machboos is a captivating dish featuring fragrant basmati rice lovingly cooked with a harmonious blend of warm spices like saffron, cardamom, cloves, and dried lime. This creates a truly exquisite and unforgettable flavor experience.
The dish often features tender meat, such as chicken, lamb, or fish, which is marinated and cooked to perfection.
Traditionally enjoyed during family gatherings and special occasions, Machboos is a symbol of Qatari hospitality and culture.
Its rich flavours and fragrant aroma make it a beloved dish that captures the essence of Qatari cuisine.
09. Second Flattest country in the world
Qatar is the second flattest country in the world, distinguished by its remarkably low elevation and gently undulating desert landscape.
The country’s topography is predominantly flat and arid, with its highest point being only about 103 meters above sea level.
This unique geographical feature influences Qatar’s climate, resulting in hot summers and mild winters.
Despite its flat terrain, Qatar boasts diverse ecosystems, including coastal areas, mangroves, and desert habitats.
