Qatar

Types of trips: Culture, Historical, Religious, Shopping, Relaxation

Best known for: Riches & Wealth, Oil, Small size

Why Go?: While the capital city of Doha is the pride of the country with its elegant style and vibrant lifestyle, but the country in general is an excellent destination. The busy and traditional markets, historical Islamic Art and sweeping landscapes gives a traveller a taste of the Arab world in one of the safest countries in the region. 

Fact File

Population: 2,100,000

Capital: Doha

Language(s): Arabic

Ties to the UK?: Former British protectorate, popular travel destination

Landscape: Mostly made up of a low, sandy plain with some southern sand dunes. 

Climate/Seasons: Summer (May - September) can be extremely hot and humid with frequent sandstorms, while winter is much milder and pleasant with the occasional rainy day.

When to Go: This generally depends on the purpose of the visit - while winter has the most tolerable weather, popular events can make a trip to Qatar great whatever the weather.

Reasons to Visit: Local attractions and culture, history & religion

How to Get There: Flying is the best way to travel from the UK to Qatar - you should be able to fly direct from London. 

Places to Go: Museum of Islamic Art, Doha Fort, Qatar National Museum, Doha Corniche

Famous People: Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Nasser Salih Al-Attiyah

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Palm Tree Island

History: Was a British protectorate for a period in the 20th century until independence was gained in 1971 - Qatar soon after rapidly grew in wealth due to oil operations

Architecture: Aspire Tower, Museum of Islamic Art, Heritage House

Culture: Quite similar to other Eastern Arabia countries & heavily influenced by Islam 

Sport: Football, Basketball, Drag Racing, Tennis

Events: Tribeca Film Festival, Eid, Arts Festival of Qatar, Doha Cultural Festival

Watch Out For: You can get a visa upon arrival in Qatar from the UK, but you must pay by credit card and you must hold a British Citizen passport - you can get visas before your trip for all other circumstances, but make sure to leave plenty of time to get this sorted. 

Medical Issues: Some vaccines and boosters are advised for travel to Qatar - see here for a good general overview and always consult a doctor well before the trip.