Qatar is a small peninsula jutting into the Persian Gulf, bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south. It is known for its vast natural gas reserves, which have made it one of the wealthiest nations per capita in the world. The country blends a traditional Arab heritage with a rapidly modernizing skyline and a growing international profile.
- Capital
- Doha
- Continent
- Asia
- Region
- Western Asia
- Area
- 11,586 km²
- Coordinates
- 26° N, 51° E
- Languages
- Arabic
- Currency
- QAR ر.ق
- Domain
- .qa قطر.
- Calling code
- +974
On the world map
Bordering countries
Saudi ArabiaCountry facts
- Qatar sits atop one of the largest natural gas fields in the world, the North Field, shared with Iran.
- Arabic is the official language, though English is widely spoken in business and daily life.
- The falcon is a national symbol and falconry remains a deeply cherished cultural tradition.
- Qatar hosted the FIFA World Cup in 2022, becoming the first Arab country to do so.
- The country follows the Islamic lunar calendar for religious observances alongside the Gregorian calendar.
Capital facts
- Doha has been Qatar's capital since the country declared independence from Britain in 1971.
- The Corniche is a sweeping waterfront promenade that offers iconic views of Doha's glittering modern skyline.
- Souq Waqif is a restored traditional market in the heart of the city where locals and visitors shop for spices, textiles, and crafts.
- The Museum of Islamic Art, designed by architect I. M. Pei, stands on a small artificial island just off the Corniche.
- Doha served as the main host city for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, dramatically expanding its infrastructure and global recognition.