EYE OPENING FACTS ABOUT QATAR: An

expository guide for tourists who want to

visit or stay in Qatar

Maxwell Moore

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All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be
reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any
means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic
or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of
the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in
critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses
permitted by copyright law.

Copyright © Maxwell Moore, 2022.

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Table of contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

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Chapter 1

Introduction

Have you heard of the nation Qatar? You may be astonished to

find that Qatar is an exceptionally prosperous nation. It's s one
of the wealthiest in the world.

This book will be disclosing to you everything you need to know

about this intriguing nation named Qatar.

Qatar is a quick-rising nation in every aspect. There's no better

time to explore the busy metropolis of Doha and to take a trek
into the hot dunes of the desert surrounding it.

In my view, there's no better moment to visit Qatar to

experience the obviously artificial but gorgeous and enjoyable
city life, and the wealth the nation has generated in recent
years, while gently conserving the elements of their past that
Qataris are quite proud of.

This book is written to provide the reader with an overview of

all aspects of this city life, its legacy, and the unexpectedly
vibrant desert that surrounds it.

This book is for transiting travelers on their route to and from

Asia as well as visitors who came to visit Qatar for a holiday,

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and for as many that will visit Qatar during the FIFA WORLD
CUP 2022.

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Chapter 2

History of Qatar

In the 5th century BC, the Greek writer Herodotus noted that
the earliest occupants of Qatar were the Canaanite tribes, who
were famed for their seafaring and marine trading.

Furthermore, the Greek geographer Ptolemy’s so-called Map of

Arabia contained as well what Ptolemy himself then termed
“Qatar”, which is assumed to be a reference to the Zubara city,
being formerly one of the most significant trade ports in the
Gulf region.

Qatar had a major role as recorded by the Arab-Muslim

historical texts. The Qatari residents immersed themselves in
creating the first marine fleet to convey forces during the
Muslim conquests.

Under the Abbasid administration during the eighth Hijri

century (14th AD), Qatar had an era of economic success as
made evident by the written documents unearthed in the
Maroubra Fort on the western shore that displays the Abbasid
architectural style.

Upon their military alliance with the Turks during the tenth
Hijri century (16th AD), the Qataris could drive the Portuguese
out, and it was the beginning of the dominance of the Ottoman

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Empire over the entire Arabian Peninsula including Qatar for
approximately four consecutive centuries.

The Turkish dominance in the area, however, weakened with

the onset of the First World War in 1914 and a treaty was struck
with Britain in 1916 providing for the security of the Qatari
territories and people.

The British power was constrained largely to its oversight of

certain administrative activities.

Qatar was controlled by the Al-Thani Dynasty, after its leader

Thani bin Mohammad — father of Sheikh Mohammad bin
Thani, who was the first sheikh, later on, to have authority over
the Qatari Peninsula during the mid-nineteenth century.

Being a descendant of the Bani Tameem Tribe with their

ancestral lineage stretching back to Mudhar bin Nizar, the
Al-Thanis resided in the Jibrin Oasis in the south of Nejd before
their relocation to the north of the Qatari Peninsula.

Then, they relocated to Doha in the mid-nineteenth century

under the guidance of Sheikh Mohammad bin Thani.

Under the Abbasid administration during the eighth Hijri

century (14th AD), Qatar had an era of economic success as
made obvious by the written documents unearthed in the

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Maroubra Fort on the western shore that displays the Abbasid
architectural style.

Upon their military alliance with the Turks during the tenth
Hijri century (16th AD), the Qataris could drive the Portuguese
out, and it was the beginning of the dominance of the Ottoman
Empire over the entire Arabian Peninsula including Qatar for
approximately four consecutive centuries.

The Turkish dominance in the area, however, weakened with

the onset of the First World War in 1914 and a treaty was struck
with Britain in 1916 providing for the security of the Qatari
territories and people.

The British power was constrained largely to its oversight of

certain administrative activities.

Qatar was controlled by the Al-Thani Dynasty, after its leader

Thani bin Mohammad — father of Sheikh Mohammad bin
Thani, who was the first sheikh, later on, to have an actual
authority over the Qatari Peninsula during the mid-nineteenth
century.

Being a descendant of the Bani Tameem Tribe with their

ancestral lineage stretching back to Mudhar bin Nizar, the
Al-Thanis resided in the Jibrin Oasis in the south of Nejd before
their relocation to the north of the Qatari Peninsula.

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Then, they relocated to Doha in the mid-nineteenth century
under the guidance of Sheikh Mohammad bin Thani.

Qatar's Rulers
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Thani (1851 – 1878)
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Thani is the first Ruler of Qatar and one
of its prominent figures.

He unified the Qatari tribes and the nation during a difficult

time, and was recognized for his intelligence, far-sightedness,
and love of literature and poetry.

Sheikh Jassim Bin Mohammed Bin Thani (1878 – 1913)

Sheikh Jassim Bin Mohammed Bin Thani is The founder of the
State of Qatar. A military commander, judge, scholar, knight,
and poet having both courage and magnanimity.

To safeguard Qatar, he fought several conflicts, and hazards did

not prevent his urge to resist adversities, abolish injustice and
protect the downtrodden.

Sheikh Abdullah Bin Jassim Al Thani (1913 – 1949)

Sheikh Abdullah Bin Jassim Al Thani is the third Ruler of the
State of Qatar. He was noted for his piety, morality, and wide
knowledge.

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During his term, the first oil well was dug in the nation. He
distinguished himself as a sharp and skilled negotiator
throughout the discussions with energy firms. He was a
far-sighted politician.

Sheikh Ali Bin Abdullah Al Thani (1949 - 1960)

Sheikh Ali Bin Abdullah Al Thani is the fourth Ruler of the State
of Qatar.

He was renowned for serious knowledge, tolerance, the pursuit

of a road of conciliation and consolidation of a common word,
character, high personal attributes, and noble qualities.

During his term the nation shipped the first oil cargo, marking
the genuine entrance into the oil era, and a new phase of social
and economic prosperity.

Sheikh Ahmad Bin Ali Al Thani (1960 – 1972)\ The Fifth Ruler
of Qatar and the first Ruler to hold the title "Amir".

He was recognized for his seriousness, knowledge, and

meticulous judgment in handling challenges.

He pursued a path of conciliation and consolidation of a

common word, during his rule the Shura (advisory) Council was
founded and the first temporary fundamental legislation was
issued.

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Sheikh Khalifa Bin Hamad Al Thani (1972 – 1995 )
Sheikh Khalifa Bin Hamad Al Thani is the Sixth Ruler of the
State of Qatar.

His tenure had seen several successes such as the

re-organization of the government, the Interim Basic legislation
was changed, the nation reached a number of agreements to
produce and sell oil, schools and colleges were built up and the
first university in the country was founded.

HH The Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani (1995

– 2013)\ former Amir of the State of Qatar, one of its iconic
leaders, and the architect of its contemporary renaissance.

During his tenure, which experienced significant economic,

social and cultural growth, the State of Qatar enhanced its
stature within the Arab and worldwide communities.

The GDP expanded by more than 24 times, and the per capita
GDP by roughly six-fold, while the total value added in the
hydrocarbon industry surged from 11 billion to 403 billion
Qatari Riyals.

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During his tenure the country’s permanent constitution was
promulgated, and “Qatar National Vision 2030”, which seeks to
promote a drive towards a knowledge-based economy, and
transform Qatar into an advanced country capable of achieving
sustainable development and ensuring the continuation of a
decent life for its people, generation after generation, was
framed.

On 25 June 2013, His Highness Sheikh Hamad turned over the

keys of power to his Heir Apparent Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad.

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Chapter 3

Reasons you may want to visit Qatar

The following are some of the reasons why Qatar stands out
among other countries you may like to visit:
● Visit the traditional Arabic souks, where you may
purchase traditional Arabic attire, handicrafts, spices, and
souvenirs to take back home.
● Take an evening walk along the shoreline of Doha’s
Corniche.
● Visit the Museum of Islamic Arts
● Experience the cultural fusion of a nation having both
traditional culture and modern society.
● Qatar is home to a line of premium hotels including the
Hilton, The Four Seasons, The Ritz Carlton, W Doha
Hotel, and The Sheraton.
● The shopping! Browse the souks for more traditional
things, or take a trip to the multitude of malls, featuring
huge international and luxury brands.
● Qatar also provides both a traditional aspect to their
eating, such as street food, and a more modern and
contemporary style, such as well-known worldwide
brands.
● Take a Dhow boat trip around the Corniche, and absorb
Doha’s breath-taking skyline.
● Dune smash your way across the Qatari desert.

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● The Ritz Carlton Doha is home to the largest chandelier
in the world, comprised of 2,300 dazzling Swarovski
Crystals.
● Flying with Qatar Airways enables you to experience the
luxurious lifestyle, before ever stepping foot in the
country.
● Qatar is the spot for sports fans! With the growth in sports
tourism, Qatar is prepared to host the 2022 World Cup.
● Take a journey to The Pearl - Qatar’s luxurious artificial
island
● Although Arabic is Qatar’s original language, there is no
linguistic barrier since practically everyone can speak
English.
● The Four Seasons Hotel Doha has just been home to the
world’s biggest Nobu restaurant. Nobu is a Japanese
restaurant renowned internationally. The restaurant is
operated by famous chef, Nobuyuki ‘Nobu’ Matsuhisa.

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Chapter 4

Amazing things to know about Qatar

Weather and Climate of Qatar

The desert climate of Qatar is characterized by a moderate
winter and an extremely scorching summer.

Rainfall in Qatar is modest, averaging roughly 80 millimeters

(3.14 inches) a year. It falls virtually solely in the period
November through April.

Temperatures vary from 22 degrees Celsius (71.6 degrees

Fahrenheit) in January to roughly 45 degrees Celsius (113°F) in
July in Doha.

In general, the sun shines several hours a day, yet notably in the
late and early hours, there is frequently a less brilliant watery
sun due to the quantity of moisture in the air.

This may generate the most amazing hues in the sky between
sunset and dawn. In the capital Doha, it cools down less fast
throughout the evening than on open desert plains.

That's because the pavement and buildings of the city hold the
heat longer. In addition, the proximity near the coast
guarantees that temperatures drop less rapidly

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The weather is normally favorable throughout the period from
November to April and that's the ideal time to visit Qatar.

During this season, the maximum temperature is between 20

and 28 degrees Celsius (68 - 82.4°F) in the 'coolest' months of
December, January, and February. In November and March,
you can depend on maximums that are about 30°C (86°F).

Qatar currency
The Qatari riyal is the official currency of the State of Qatar. The
currency code is QAR, and the abbreviation is QR. The Qatari
riyal is made up of 100 dirhams.

The abbreviation for the currency is QR, in English. Riyal is also

frequently referred to as rial.

All Qatar notes and coins are issued by the Qatar Central Bank
whose objectives include monetary stability and regulatory
control of the currency.

Location of Qatar
Qatar officially the State of Qatar, is a country located in
Western Asia and the richest country in the World.

It's lies on the Persian Gulf in eastern Arabia, north of Saudi

Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

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Language of the people of Qatar
The inhabitants of Qatar are referred to as Qataris and all are
Arabs. Arabic is the official language of this nation although
most of them also use English primarily while carrying out
business.

This is used as a second language. Due to the cosmopolitan

nature of Qatar, various additional dialects are also utilized in
the nation.

These include Urdu, Balochi, Malayalam, Pashto, Hindi,

Telugu, Tagalog, Tamil, Sinhalese, Nelapi, and Bengali.

Places you will love to visit in Qatar

With the multitude of Doha tourist attractions, your holiday in
Qatar’s pearl is guaranteed to be a memorable one. And to make
it even more exciting incorporate these famous sites to visit in
Doha in your schedule without fail.

● Museum Of Islamic Art: - Architectural Gem

● Corniche: Recreational Fun
● Souq Waqif: A Shopaholic’s Love
● Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Stadium: Enjoy
The Activities
● Aspire Park: Serene Views
● Katara Cultural Village: Relish The Events
● The Pearl: An Artificial Island

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 ● Qatar National Museum: Impressive Artefacts
● Islamic Cultural Centre: Apprise Your Soul
● Sealine Beach Resort: A Tranquil Bliss
● Barzan Towers: Heightened Views

Food you can find in Qatar

Welcome to Qatar, a nation of extraordinary generosity and
friendliness!

What makes Qatar so exceptional is its seamless ability to blend

the preservation and reverence of its history and culture with
modernity and innovation.

The pride of Qatar’s people can be evident in their traditions,

and one of the most beloved traditions is their cuisine!

Food bonds these people together and the diversity and

ingenuity that goes into cooking makes up the heart and soul of
this nation.

All social occasions, family gatherings, and even business

meetings feature lavish and exquisite cuisine.

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The following are some of the foods you may find in the cities of
Qatar:

Majboos
being exceptionally tasty, majboos is first and primarily
regarded as the national dish of Qatar. You just cannot visit
Qatar without sampling this renowned delicacy.

It is cooked gently and gradually to ensure it is as rich as may

be. The people of Qatar are incredibly patient when it comes to
cooking cuisine since the outcome is always worth it!

Madrouba
It is just chicken, milk, butter, and a common ingredient here in
Qatar called hail, often known as cardamom.

Think of it as a mixture of these elements, mushed all together

into a texture similar to that of mashed potatoes.

This meal is created by various restaurants, all with the same

components but somehow with unique flavors, depending on
the technique of cooking!

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Umm Ali
It is originally an Egyptian meal, but the way it makes your taste
receptors dance makes it a hugely popular dish in Qatar.

It is a bread-based treat with milk and cinnamon, the

make-or-break component that improves the flavor.

Other components depend on choice, for example, sugar and

nuts. It is a definite must-have if you’ve still got some space for
dessert!

Luqaimat
Another delicious meal! Luqaimat is a Qatari delicacy that never
fails to please a sweet craving. These beauties are crispy on the
exterior and fluffy on the inside.

Think of them like doughnut balls, but they’re deeply fried,

coated in sweet syrup, scented with saffron and hail, which, as
we mentioned above, is Arabic for good old cardamom, and are
typically dusted with sesame seeds to give even more richness to
the taste.

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Kunafa
This cuisine is one we are sure you may have heard of, however
here in Qatar, kunafa is a BIG thing!

The people of Qatar seldom hold any occasion or gathering

without offering kunafa. It is a multi-purpose meal that is eaten
on various occasions; weddings, funerals, bridal showers,
during Ramadan, breakfast, picnics, etc

Shawarma
This is a typical meal in the Middle East and has gained famous
globally, but here in Qatar, it is created with a little additional
work and love.

The people of Qatar adapted the notion of shawarma and

applied it to a more creative range of ingredients. Here, the
possibilities go well beyond conventional chicken or beef.

They extend to shawarma fish and shawarma shrimp. And the

beauty of it is that you can get so many various sorts and styles
of shawarma, such as Turkish, Lebanese, and even
Indian-styled shawarma.

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Balaleet
The components of this one will confound you, but hear us out.
It is a blend of eggs, sugar, saffron, and vermicelli rice noodles.
Balaleet is consumed predominantly during Eid al Fitr, the Eid
that occurs shortly after the holy month of Ramadan.

Karak
You may have heard of karak, Qatar’s most popular drink. It is
so popular, that you may find multiple karak businesses open
24 hours.

It is a sort of Qatari tea that comprises milk, cardamom, and

sugar. It is cooked three times to optimize the taste of the
seasonings.

Now, don’t underestimate the procedure; boiling the

components all together three times is necessary, and any
shortcuts will directly damage the final flavor.

Qahwa with Hail

The second most popular drink is qahwa with hail, often known
as coffee with cardamom. I know what you’re thinking, these
Qatari folks really enjoy their cardamom!

This coffee may not be an immediate favorite since it has a bit of

an acquired flavor. It is prepared with green coffee beans and

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cardamom. And of course, the pouring method is distinctive; it
is poured from a special style of pot called a dallah, and the little
cups it is served in frequently have no handle.

You may also find so many different sorts of cuisine like;

saloona, margoog, red tea with mint, samboosa, khanfaroosh,
spring potato, thareed, chapati, kabab nakhi, etc

Religion practised in Qatar

Qatar is a multi-religious community like most of the Persian
Gulf nations with waves of migration over the past 30 years.

Muslims compose 65.5 percent of the Qatari population,

followed by Hindus at 15.4 percent, Christians at 14.2 percent,
Buddhists at 3.3 percent, and the remainder 1.9 percent of the
population follow other faiths or are unaffiliated. Qatar is also
home to various different faiths predominantly from the Middle
East and Asia.

The nation has also held various interfaith conversation

conferences.
The Constitution of Qatar allows for the freedom of religion
throughout the nation.

However, preaching by non-Muslims is a criminal violation.

Apostasy by Muslims is likewise punished by law. Although the

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royal family and the administration are strongly related to
Islam, non-Muslims are permitted to serve in official roles.

Islamic festivals are observed as national holidays in Qatar.

Religious organizations need to be registered with the
government to be legally recognized. To be authorized, each
organization must have at least 1,500 members. The printing
and dissemination of religious literature in Qatar are tightly
supervised by the Government of the country.

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