Here are some fascinating facts about this incredible country that will surprise you! From its rich history to unique landmarks, get to know the hidden gems and facts that make Qatar truly special.
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Qatar is the safest country in the world
With the lowest crime rate globally, at 13.3 points, and an 86.7 safety index, Qatar has repeatedly been recognized as the safest city in the world
Men outnumber women by three to one
As of December 2023, Doha’s population of 2,605,405 includes 827,023 women and about 3,150 men per 1,000 women, showing a male-to-female ratio of roughly three to one
Qatar is one of the richest countries in the world
Qatar ranks among the world's wealthiest nations. With a GDP per capita of $138,910 (IMF 2020), much of its wealth comes from petroleum and natural gas, accounting for over 60% of GDP
Just 15 percent of the country is Qatari
Qatar attracts expats with its great weather, relaxed lifestyle, and tax-free salaries. Over two million expats live in Qatar, making Qataris a minority at around 15% of the population
The Arabian Oryx is Qatar’s national animal
The oryx, Qatar's national animal, was saved from extinction in the 1970s by zoos and reserves. Featured on the Qatar Airways logo, the oryx also served as the mascot, Orry, for the 2006 Asian Games in Doha
Qatar's first school opened in 1949, and its first hospital in 1947
Doha’s first school, Islah al-Mohammadiyeh, began in 1949 with one teacher and 50 students. The American Mission opened Qatar’s first hospital in 1947, followed by the government-run Al Rumailah Hospital in 1957, which remains the oldest hospital in Doha
The FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar features several historical firsts
The FIFA World Cup 2022 was historic as Qatar became the smallest and first Arab country to host it. The final, with 1.5 billion viewers, was the most-watched ever. It was also the first World Cup held in winter and achieved carbon neutrality with an 800MW solar plant and offset emissions
Qatar’s ruling family has been in power since 1868
The House of Thani has ruled Qatar since 1868, after the Qatari-Bahraini war. The current Emir, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, has led the country since 2013
Qatar National Day wasn’t always on December 18
In Qatar, National Day on December 18 is a major event, celebrating Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani’s succession as ruler in 1878. Before 2007, it was observed on September 3, marking Qatar’s independence from Britain in 1971
Qatar National Day wasn’t always on December 18
In Qatar, National Day on December 18 is a major event, celebrating Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani’s succession as ruler in 1878. Before 2007, it was observed on September 3, marking Qatar’s independence from Britain in 1971
The name Qatar dates back to 50AD
Roman writer Pliny the Elder referred to the people of modern-day Qatar as 'Catharrei' in the mid-first century. The name evolved through variations like Catara, Katara, Katr, Kattar, and Guttur, until 'Qatar' became the official name in the 18th century
Qatar is 2 meters higher than it was 400 years ago
Qatar has been gradually rising over the past four centuries due to geological uplift
Hamad International Airport is the best airport in the world
In Qatar, we take pride in hosting the world's best airport, as awarded by Skytrax in 2024 and 2021. Hamad International Airport is renowned for its exceptional public art and efficient travel experience
Al Khor Island: First to Produce Purple Shellfish Dye
Al Khor Island is a must-visit in Qatar, featuring a vast mangrove forest ideal for kayaking. Archaeological finds date back to the second millennium BC, and it was the first place to produce purple shellfish dye, earning it the name Purple Island
Khor Al Adaid is the only places in the world where the sea meets desert
Khor Al Adaid, or the Inland Sea, is a unique site where the sea meets the desert. Declared a nature reserve in 2007, Qatar is working to have it recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Qatar is the second flattest country in the world
With its highest point at just 338 ft. Only the Maldives is flatter, with a high point of six feet
Qatar has a coastline of 563 kilometres
Qatar, a peninsula with a 563 km coastline, is surrounded by water on most sides. Its stunning coastline is a key highlight of the country.
From pearl diving to oil
For centuries, pearl diving was vital to Qatar’s economy. But in the 1920s, Japan's cultured pearls disrupted the market, prompting Qatar to shift to oil. The first well was drilled in 1939, with crude oil exports beginning in 1949. Today, Qatar boasts the world’s longest drilled oil well at 40,320 ft.
Burj Doha has a unique design
This iconic West Bay tower, named the best tall building in 2012, was designed by Jean Nouvel. It features internal diagrid columns and a Mashrabiya-inspired façade that adapts to sunlight. The building is especially striking at night
The Doha Metro is Guinness world-record breaking
The Doha Metro is not only a cost-effective way to travel but also set a world record for the most tunnel boring machines used simultaneously during its construction
