QATAR TRAVEL GUIDE
Qatar is a peninsular Arab country whose terrain comprises arid desert and a long Persian (Arab) Gulf shoreline of beaches and dunes. Qatar is a pint-sized country in the Middle East, but what it lacks in size it makes up in energy. This extremely progressive country is trying to accomplish in decades what some countries have attained in centuries.
One of the first Gulf countries to discover oil, Qatar’s reserve today is modest, but its natural gas reserves rank it as a very resource-rich nation. Also on the coast is the capital, Doha, known for its futuristic skyscrapers and other ultramodern architecture inspired by ancient Islamic design, such as the limestone Museum of Islamic Art. Not exactly a tourist hotspot yet, the country welcome the traveller with its magnificent hotels, glorious beaches and enthusiastic water sports.
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QATAR QUICK FACTS
- Capital: Doha
- Government: Traditional monarchy
- Currency: Qatari riyal (QAR)
- Area: 11,437 km2
- Population: 2,782 million (2018)
- Language: Arabic (official), English commonly used as a second language
- Religion: Muslim 67% (Christianity and Hinduism both at 13.8%)
- Electricity: 240V/50Hz (UK plug)
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QATAR PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
- 2nd Tuesday of February, National Sports Day
- 3 September, Independence Day
- 18 December, National Day
Also, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
QATAR WEATHER SYNOPSIS
Qatar has a desert climate. The country experiences long summers from May to September characterised by intense dry heat, with temperatures rising above 45°C. Winter temperatures are mild but may fall below 5°C. Rainfall is only experienced during the winter with the northern parts of the country receiving 30% more rainfall than the south. Qatar is impacted by Shamal winds, which cause sand and dust storms throughout the year.
SPORT & ACTIVITIES
HIKING & CYCLING IN QATAR
Qatar's climate is not very well suited to hikers. Summers are scorching and humid, while winter is only a little cooler. The most popular outdoor activities are "dune bashing" by 4 wheel drive or quad bikes.
BEACH OPTIONS IN QATAR
If you're visiting the beaches in Qatar, be aware that you may need to wear appropriate clothing ie nothing too revealing. Some of the most popular beach resorts are: Banana Island Resort Doha, Katara Beach, Simaisma and A Murwab Resort.
KITESURF IN QATAR
No matter whether you are an advanced kitesurfer looking for a challenge, or a beginner that is still learning the skills, Qatar will have what you are looking for. With mostly shallow open water, plenty of space without any traffic and mild temperatures that won’t scare you away! The season is generally from January to June.
