Fact 1: Qatar Is One of The Richest Countries in The World
Qatar is known for its wealth, thanks to its abundant reserves of natural gas and oil. On the list of countries with the highest Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita, Qatar often stands proud at the top. In other words, when measured in terms of income per person, Qatar residents are among the wealthiest individuals on the planet.
Fact 2: It Is Predominantly Made Up Of Expatriates
Although Qatar is a sovereign country, its own nationals make up only around 12% of the population. The remaining 88% are expatriates from all around the world. Majority of these expatriates come from South Asia, especially India and Nepal, who primarily work in the construction and service sectors.
Fact 3: The World's Largest Natural Gas Field Is in Qatar
The North Field, located off the northeast coast of Qatar’s mainland, holds the world's largest natural gas reserves. This field alone contributes to a significant part of Qatar's wealth and accounts for nearly all of Qatar's natural gas production.
Fact 4: Qatar Will Host The 2022 FIFA World Cup
Qatar is gearing up to host the FIFA World Cup in 2022, becoming the first Arab country to do so. The event is expected to be a major milestone for the country, with a number of state-of-the-art stadiums and facilities being built specially for the tournament.
Fact 5: Qatar Has A Man-Made Island
The Pearl-Qatar, located in the capital city of Doha, is a luxurious man-made island that spans nearly four million square meters. It features high-end residences, retail outlets, and a wide number of unique dining spots.
Fact 6: There Are No Forests in Qatar
Qatar is essentially a desert nation, and so it doesn't have any forests to speak of. The landscape of Qatar is mainly barren plains with some hills and sand dunes.
Fact 7: Qatari Men Wear Traditional Robes
For traditional Qatari men, the dress code is a white robe known as dishdasha or thobe. This attire is both practical and suitable for Qatar's hot climate.
Fact 8: It Has The Middle East’s Largest Dome
The Aspire Dome in Qatar is known as the Middle East's largest indoor multi-purpose dome, offering an impressive range of sporting facilities. It was unveiled as an architectural masterpiece during the 15th Asian Games hosted by Doha in 2006.
Fact 9: Qatar Uses Desalinated Sea Water
As Qatar is situated in a desert region and doesn't have a significant source of freshwater, the country primarily uses desalinated seawater for its water supply.
Fact 10: There Are No Taxes
Qatar does not implement personal income tax. The government's revenue primarily comes from the petrochemical industry, which allows for a tax-free income environment for individuals.
Fact 11: It Has One of The Lowest Unemployment Rates
With a booming economy and constant need for workers, Qatar has one of the lowest unemployment rates in the world.
Fact 12: Qatar Has a Camel Force
Alongside its modern military, Qatar maintains a traditional Camel Force. This force pays homage to the historical significance of camels for transportation and warfare in the region.
Fact 13: Qatar Airways Is One of The Best Airlines in The World
Qatar's national carrier, Qatar Airways, has consistently ranked among the world's best airlines in Skytrax World's Airline awards.
Fact 14: Qatar Has An Underwater TV Studio
Al Jazeera, the country's state-funded broadcaster has built an underwater TV studio as a part of its climate change awareness campaigns. This unique initiative shows the innovative spirit of Qatar.
Fact 15: It Has The Largest Single Canvas Painting in The World
A Qatari artist created the world's largest single canvas painting, earning a place in the Guinness World Records. The canvas, measuring over 1700 square meters, is a reflection of the country's burgeoning arts scene.
Fact 16: Qatar Has A Dragon Tree Reserve
Despite its desert climate, Qatar is home to a dragon tree reserve in the Hawar Islands. These unique trees, known for their umbrella shape, are a major attraction for nature lovers.
Fact 17: Qatar Is A Hotspot For Falconry
Qatar retains strong ties to its Bedouin past, and falconry remains a popular sport and traditional activity among Qataris. There are also specialized hospitals that provide expert care for falcons.
Fact 18: It Has The World’s Most Luxurious Prison
Qatar's 'luxury' Prison, Ras Ruman, looks like a standard residential area than a prison. It has been designed to reform and rehabilitate prisoners through a comfortable living environment.
Fact 19: World’s Second UNESCO World Heritage Site is in Qatar
Qatar's Al Zubarah Archaeological Site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site - a uniquely preserved pearl fishing and merchant town from the 18th-19th centuries, showcasing the region's long history.
Fact 20: Qatar Has The Largest Flag
Qatar owns a record of having the world's largest flag. It was hoisted in 2013 in celebration of Qatar National Day, measuring an impressive 101.8 by 63 meters.