General background: Ruled by the
Al Thani family since the mid-1800s, Qatar transformed
itself from a poor British protectorate noted mainly
for pearling into an independent state with significant
oil and natural gas revenues. During the late 1980s
and early 1990s, the Qatari economy was crippled by
a continuous siphoning off of petroleum revenues by
the amir who had ruled the country since 1972. He was
overthrown by his son, the current Amir HAMAD bin Khalifa
Al Thani, in a bloodless coup in 1995. In 2001, Qatar
resolved its longstanding border disputes with both
Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Oil and natural gas revenues
enable Qatar to have a per capita income not far below
the leading industrial countries of Western Europe.
Area comparative: Slightly smaller than
Connecticut.
Climate: Arid; mild, pleasant
winters; very hot, humid summers
Terrain:
Mostly flat and barren desert covered with loose sand
and gravel.
Population: 793,341 (July 2002 est.)
Ethnic groups: Arab 40%, Pakistani 18%, Indian
18%, Iranian 10%, other 14%
Religions: Muslim 95%
Language: Arabic (official), English commonly
used as a second language
Government type: Traditional monarchy
Capital: Doha
Legal system: Discretionary system of law
controlled by the amir, although civil codes are being
implemented; Islamic law dominates family and personal
matters.
Economic overview: Oil accounts for more than
30% of GDP, roughly 80% of export earnings, and 58%
of government revenues. Proved oil reserves of 3.7
billion barrels should ensure continued output at
current levels for 23 years. Oil has given Qatar a
per capita GDP comparable to that of the leading West
European industrial countries. Qatar's proved reserves
of natural gas exceed 7 trillion cubic meters, more
than 5% of the world total, third largest in the world.
Production and export of natural gas are becoming
increasingly important. Long-term goals feature the
development of offshore natural gas reserves. In 2000,
Qatar posted its highest ever trade surplus of $7
billion, due mainly to high oil prices and increased
natural gas exports, and managed to maintain the surplus
in 2001.
Communication/Telephone system: Modern system
Places of interest:
Travel tips: Qatar is considered safe and secure
for foreigners although demonstrations and other political
gatherings are best avoided.
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