Qatar is a sovereign country and is located in Southwest Asia. It is surrounded by the Persian Gulf on most of the border, and the only country that borders it on land is Saudi Arabia. The country follows a hereditary monarchy system but still has a constitution in place.
Doha is the capital city and also a major international hub for Qatar Airways. The country hosts a population of 1.8 million people. It is a very developed country, the major cause of which is its vast natural gas and oil reserves. It may sound surprising, but Qatar holds the highest per capita income in the world.
The official language is Arabic. Islam is the major and dominant religion followed in the country. The people of Qatar are called Qatari. In terms of geography, Qatar isn’t a big country and covers an area of around 11,500 km2. However, the country wields considerable power as compared to its size.
The official currency is Qatari Riyal. The approximate exchange rate is QR3.64 for US$1. The currency exchange is available at all major banks and hotels. All major credit cards are widely acceptable. There are ATMs throughout Qatar, although there are fewer outside the capital.
Taxis are the main source of public transport within Doha. There is a choice between the old orange and white cars or newer, slightly more expensive sea-blue taxis. Both have meters. Car hire is also widely available. The minimum driving age in the country is 18. However, many companies demand drivers to be over 21 to rent a car. Qatar itself is very easy to explore by car as it’s a tiny country. Cars drive on the right side of the road.
As for electricity, Qatar uses types D and G sockets. You need to bring a travel adapter to fit the proper socket type. Check out the above-linked page to see the photos and other useful information. The standard voltage is 240 V. Many of your devices may need a step-up transformer to match the electrical voltage.
Islamic tradition mainly influences the culture of Qatar. Various Islamic rulers have historically ruled the country. The country has great art and traditions history and the ruling family of Qatar (Al Thani) are very notable collectors of art.
The Museum of Islamic Art is one of the best museums in the country. Qatar is going to hold the 2022 FIFA World Cup which you might want to go as the flight tickets will be cheaply priced to attract tourists and fans.
Other popular attractions include Souq Waqif (described as the social heart of Doha), Falcon Souq, taking a desert safari tour from Doha, and Bandar Aden in Doha (a wonderful place to find good restaurants).
July 23, 2016 12:00 am 1 Comment
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