About Qatar

The State of Qatar has emerged as a dynamic international business centre, and yet has managed to hold on to it's cultural and historical identity.

Qatar has the highest GDP per capita in the Middle East and is one of the wealthiest countries in the world. This wealth comes from the country's main exports of oil and gas which accounts for over 60% of the GDP. This economic success is a far cry from when Qatar's economy consisted predominantly of pearl diving. Today, Qatari's enjoy a high standard of living in one of the world's fastest growing economies.

Population

Although the last official census took place in 2004, the population of Qatar is estimated to be around 1.2 million people of which less than 25% are Qatari. Around 80% of the total population live in Doha, the country's capital city.

Geography

Qatar is located approximately half way along the western coast of the Gulf, and covers an area of 11,436 sq km. The summers are long, hot and humid with temperatures reaching 50 degrees Celsius then falling to a mild winter. Qatar averages about 70mm of rainfall per year. Although the population is concentrated in Doha, because of the growth rate of the economy which in turn attracts an international workforce, the city is spreading northwards to major developments such as the Pearl and Lusail. These developments will ease the current lack of accommodation (and thus the over priced rental market), and also give foreign nationals an opportunity to own their own property in Qatar.

Language

The official language of Qatar is Arabic, although English is widely spoken.

Education

Qatar has a superb three-stage education system, the pinnacle of which is Education City which is a project of the Qatar Foundation. Education City, founded 10 years ago, promotes education, science, and cutting-edge research. It is also home to some of the world's best universities, as well as other educational and research facilities, and offers accredited degrees in line with international standards.