Amazing
Qatar
News, Tour Guide and more
ABOUT QATAR
Basic Info
The State of Qatar is a sovereign and independent state in the Middle East, occupying a peninsula that juts into the Arabian Gulf. Since its complete independence from Britain in 1971, Qatar has emerged as one of the world's most important producers of oil and gas. It is an Islamic State whose laws and customs follow the Islamic tradition. Since 2013, the country has been governed by HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani.
Quick overview on essential things:
Location and Geography
The State of Qatar is a peninsula located amid the western coast of the Arabian Gulf. The peninsular is approximately 100km across and extends 200km into the Gulf. Qatar includes several islands the largest of which are, Halul, Shraouh and Al-Asshat.
Local Time Zone
GMT +3 hours.
Visas
If you're visiting Qatar, you may need a visa to enter the country. For details, visit the Hukoomi e-service portal.
Official Holidays
Fridays and Saturdays are official days off in Qatar
Qatar National Day: December 18 (annually)
National Sport Day on Tuesday of the second week of February (annually)
The holy Eid Al-Fitr
The holy Eid Al-Adha
Some Important Numbers
Emergencies (police, fire or ambulance): 999
Taxi: 4458 8888
Ooredoo Telephone Assistance: 111
Local Directory: 180
Currency
Qatari Riyal (1 Riyal = 100 Dirhams).
The Riyal is pegged to the US Dollar ($US 1 = QAR 3.65).
Climate
Qatar has a desert climate with hot summers, warm winters and scarce rainfall.
Major Cities
Doha (capital), Al-Wakrah, Al-Khor, Dukhan, Al-Shamal, Msaieed, Ras Lafan and others.
Language
Arabic is the official language of the country, though English is widely spoken.
Electric Current
220 – 240 + 6V/50Hz. A mix of plugs: 3-pin square and 2-pin round designs.