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. His son, the current Amir HAMAD bin Khalifa Al Thani, overthrew him 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 one of the highest per capita incomes in the world.
June 6th 2008Middle East » Qatar » Doha I'm deeply opposed to thumb twiddling in airports. But what can you do with three hours in Doha? Lots, as it turns out. We met camels, saw the sunset over the Dhow Harbour, and walked the Corniche, ... [full story]
May 20th 2008Middle East » Qatar » Doha Doha is truly fascinating in all facets of Islamic religion, culture, surroundings, incredible wealth and people. This is all obvious as soon as I left the airport, although I was exhausted after 4 l ... 13 photos[full story]
May 8th 2008Middle East » Qatar » Doha Hello everyone! So I had a lovely Bday and a lovely time in London. Before telling about those, I just want to point out that today is Addie’s birthday and you should all call/email her.
So ... [full story]
February 10th 2008Middle East » Qatar » Doha Flight en route from Manchester to Ho Chi Minh City.
We stayed at the SAS Radisson at Manchester Airport on Saturday evening, avoiding a very early drive from Shropshire. We had a so-so meal with ... [full story]
Map of Qatar
Qatar's Flag
