More people have taken an interest in Qatar ever since it became the first Arab country in the world to host the FIFA World Cup. Besides that, there are many facts about Qatar you must know about to understand the country.
So, if you want to know more about this thriving Arab country, you have come to the right place. Here are all the interesting Qatar facts that will help you become more familiar with the country’s culture.
Historical Facts About Qatar
Qatar has a long history that dates back thousands of years. Such a history makes it one of the most fascinating countries you will visit. Here is all the historical information on Qatar that will take you back to its past to understand the present.
The Name Qatar Comes From Catharrei
The origin of the name Qatar comes from Pliny the Elder, a Roman writer who called the people of this place Catharrei. Of course, ever since then, the name has gone through many changes. Katara was the most common name at one point, but then Qatar became the official name of the country.
Qatar’s History Began More Than Fifty-Thousand Years Ago
Qatar has a history that dates back thousands of years, as human occupation took place in this region at least fifty thousand years ago. Many different people have ruled this region, including the Portuguese. Finally, in the 70s, the region became independent from the British.
The Ruling Family Has Been In Power Since The 19th Century
The ruling family is known as the House of Thani, and they have been ruling Qatar since 1868. Hamad Al Thani is the current Emir in 2023, and he has been ruling the country since 2013 now. Of course, the airport is named after him.
Cultural Facts About Qatar
With such a deep and long history, there is no doubt that Qatar is also rich in cultural heritage. This is why it is crucial to understand the cultural Qatar facts to know more about the country. Here are some interesting things to learn about.
People Love To Use Robots To Race Camels
This is something you might not have heard before, but yes, camel racing is incredibly popular in the country. Since 2004, robots have been used as jockeys for camels to ensure health and safety. The camel herders control the camels by driving next to them on the track.
The Doha Marriott Offers A 100-Meter Long Buffet
If you want to indulge in the local cuisine, you can go for a hundred-meter-long buffet at the Doha Marriott. The best part is that you will find all kinds of cuisine at this buffet. So, whether you want to have Mexican tacos or a full English breakfast, you will find it here in no time.
Most Of The Population Includes Immigrants
You will notice that most of the population in Qatar is made up of immigrants. Most of the foreigners that live here include Pakistanis, Indians, Nepalese, and many others. Besides that, the rest of the population is made of the descendants of the local ancient civilizations.
Machboos Is The National Dish
Machboos is the national dish of the country, and tourists and locals love consuming it. The dish includes tomatoes, onions, meat, and rice mixed with various spices. One of the interesting facts about Qatar food is the use of strong spices to concoct extremely delicious dishes. Once you try this dish, you will want to keep sampling more traditional Qatari foods.
Interesting Facts About Qatar For Kids
Qatar is a fascinating country, which is why kids should also know more about it. Here are some of the fun facts about Qatar for kids that will pique their interest.
The Main Religion Of Qatar Is Islam
Islam is the main religion of the country, as 70% of the people follow this religion. However, the population is also mostly made up of immigrants. This is why you will also find people that follow other religions such as Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, and much more.
It Is The Richest Country Worldwide
It is not an unknown fact of Qatar that the country is pretty wealthy. However, according to the IMF, Qatar actually has the highest GDP per capita worldwide. You will notice how rich the country is as soon as you enter. You will find luxurious buildings all around, along with incredible infrastructure and much more that attract people from around the world to the country.
The Coastline Of Qatar Spans More Than 500 Kilometers
The coastline of Qatar spans more than 500 kilometers, and it has water on all sides. There are many incredible beaches in Doha that you will love to visit while you travel the country. The sea also meets the desert here, but we have saved this information about Qatar for later, so keep reading.
Qatar Fun Facts For Travelers
As a tourist, there are many interesting and useful facts about Qatar that will make your trip. It is good to know these to ensure you take advantage of all that the country has to offer. Here is some information that will help you create a fantastic itinerary for Qatar:
The Olympic Cycling Track Is In Doha
Qatar is famous for many things, and one of them is the longest continuous cycle path in Doha. The path is thirty-three kilometers long, and it was completed in 2020. As you go on this path, it will go through around eighteen underpasses that allow you to cycle without any interruptions.
You Will Not Find Any Forests In The Country
If you are someone that loves green spaces and forests, you probably have to manage your expectations in Qatar. That is because the country has an arid climate, which is why there are no natural lush forests. However, there are efforts to create a man-made forest in the country to cater to nature lovers.
It Is The First Arab Country To Host The FIFA World Cup
One of the most well-known facts about Qatar is that it is the first Arab country in the history of FIFA to hold the World Cup. The 2022 event took the entire country by storm, and people from all over the world went to Qatar to witness this event. It heavily invested in the event to ensure that everyone had a great time during the World Cup.
Burj Doha Doesn’t Have Any Central Core
The Burj Doha is one of the most iconic buildings in the country, and it has many unique features that will shock you. For example, it doesn’t have any central core, and it uses concrete diagrid columns to create a beautiful structure. You will fall in love with the building as you witness it light up at night.
Common Facts About Qatar
Here are some of the most general facts about Qatar that you should be familiar with.
It Is The 2nd Safest Country Worldwide
Qatar stands at being the second-safest country in the world. It has one of the lowest crime rates, and especially females can roam around safely without any issues. So, if you want to move to a safe country, be sure to consider Qatar.
One Of The Best Airports In The World
Hamad International Airport is undoubtedly one of the best airports in the world. The airport is a beauty to look at, and it also provides passersby with a smooth journey. Besides that, it also has the sixth longest runway in the world.
The Sea Meets The Desert At Khor Al Adaid
Khor Al Adaid was declared a nature reserve in 2007 because it is one of the very few places where the desert meets the sea. Ever since then, the country has been trying to get this area named a UNESCO site. Be sure to visit this region and enjoy one of the most breathtaking sights you will witness.
Other Interesting Facts About Qatar
Here is some other information that is great for Qatar trivia.
Qatar Airways Is A Top Notch Airline
Qatar Airways is consistently one of the best airlines in the world, because of its excellent customer service and smooth journeys. Besides that, it also flies to all seven continents.
The First School In Doha Opened In 1949
There were many education centers in the country before this, but the first official school in the region opened in 1949. The school only had fifty students and one teacher at the time, but it expanded in no time.
The Al Khor Island Is Also Known As Purple Island
Don’t forget to visit the beautiful Al Khor Island when you are in Qatar. It was the first region in the world that produced purple shellfish dye. This is one of the fascinating facts about Qatar’s nature. Because of this, it is also called Purple Island.
Discovering More Fun Facts About Qatar
These are some of the interesting facts about Qatar to know. Of course, there is much more to this country that makes it truly one of a kind. It is one of the places you should visit at least once in your lifetime. Don’t forget to plan a trip and check out the amazing cultural and natural attractions of Qatar.
