Considered part of the Middle East, Qatar is a nation located in the northeastern part of the Arabian Peninsula, now called the Qatar Peninsula, in West Asia. The country is one of the richest countries in the world. Driven by oil exports, the country’s economy is booming. The tourism industry has also experienced significant growth in recent years.
Demography
Qatar has a seasonal population, which means that large segments of the population leave or enter the country with work contracts depending on the time of year. Consequently, the country’s population fluctuations are irregular and high population peaks are frequent. The country’s indigenous population is relatively small. In fact, only the 400,000 of the country’s total population, more than 2,500,000, are identified as ethnic Qataris. The rest of the population is made up of migrant workers who have come to work with permits or contracts, as well as foreigners who have taken up residence in the country.
The official language of the country is Arabic, which is understood by all ethnic Qataris. However, due to the influx of workers and foreign residents, English is now widely spoken and understood. English is now so widespread in Qatar that the government has been forced to take measures to ensure that the Arabic language is preserved in the country.
The fauna and the flora
Qatar is mainly a desert nation, so there is little flora and fauna. However, there are about 21 different species of mammals native to the Qatar peninsula, but many are threatened with extinction due to hunting. As a result, the government has taken steps to ensure that the species are protected. Large game reserves have been established across the country, providing refuge to endangered mammals, such as the Oryx and the Arabian gazelle. Qatar is renowned for its dugong species, most of which live near the coast.
Qatar has a large number of bird species due to its coastal location. In fact, estimates suggest that about 215 bird species, migratory or native, exist on the Qatari coast. Kent plovers are particularly common, as are Socotra cormorants and a number of varieties of sanderlings. The country also has a large number of fish species that live in its waters. Studies show that around 165 different varieties of fish are present in Qatari waters.
Although Qatar is a desert nation, many herbs and shrubs grow in the arid climate. It is believed that over 300 species of plants grow in the deserts of Qatar. All of these species are small and resistant to the heat of the desert, and therefore species like Vachellia tortilis and Zygophyllum qatarense are relatively common in the region. Lycium shawii is a unique feature of the Qatari landscape. This plant has adapted over time and can now survive the Qatari climate.
Culture
Qatar has a rich Arab culture, filled with Islamic influence, Arab styles and the reference to the ocean and the desert is evident in almost every aspect of the culture. These influences are particularly evident in the architecture of Qatari buildings and skyscrapers. Qatar’s cuisine is rich in protein dishes, while vegetarian dishes are relatively rare. This can be explained by the fact that very few vegetables are grown in the country.
Tourism
Tourism in Qatar is growing and the government has paid particular attention to the development of the hotel industry and the whole country is now dotted with luxury resorts and hotels. Hosting many world events is an important aspect of the tourism industry in Qatar. For example, Qatar recently made a winning bid for the World Cup, and the country has started to develop a number of projects that will further improve the tourism industry.
Weather
Qatar’s climate is arid and summers are dry and blistering heat is common. Winters are hot, although temperatures sometimes drop overnight, especially in summer. The country receives little precipitation, although precipitation does occur in late summer.
