Independent as of 1971, Qatar transformed itself from poor British protectorate to one of the richest countries on the planet within a short half-century, fueled by the discovery of extensive natural gas and petroleum reserves both inland and offshore. This newfound wealth and power secured the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which makes Qatar the first Middle Eastern (and the smallest ever) country to host the world’s most-watched sporting event.
A small peninsula protruding out of the Persian Gulf, Qatar measures just 177 miles (188 kilometers) long by 53 miles (85 kilometers) wide. Mostly flat and with no rivers, permanent flowing water sources, or natural lakes, much of the land is desert save for mangroves at Al Khor, scenic salt flats in the southeast and the dazzling skyscraper-strewn capital, Doha. In the dunes, you’ll find ancient forts and contemporary art installations sharing space with camels, sand cats, Asiatic jackals, Arabian ostriches and the nation’s sweetheart, the oryx. In the city, you’ll find museums, mosques, markets, malls and more - arranged around a turquoise bay of bobbing dhow boats, ringed with glass-and-steel and warm sandstone.
Ruled by the Al Thani family as a debated constitutional or absolute monarchy (depending on who you ask), Qatar is a conservative country modeled on Sharia Law. Dressing modestly is expected, alcohol is served only in 5-star hotels and public displays of affection, even physical contact between opposite sexes, is considered taboo. On the other hand, Qataris make up a mere 12% of the population compared to the 88% of expatriates, English is widely spoken and privacy-respecting tolerance is the norm.
For first-timers to the country, Qatar offers a deliciously complex mix of modernity and tradition: robot jockeys sit atop racing camels, falcons are bought at a generations-old souq and treated at a high-tech falcon-dedicated hospital, shisha and tea is consumed cross-legged at the Souq Waqif before a chauffeured drive to the luxurious Hamad International Airport sends you off to your next destination.
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Discover the tiny nation of Qatar, a fast upcomer in the Arabian Gulf. Explore the capital of Doha, a burgeoning metropolis, and the desert beyond on this luxury 5-day classic journey. Ride the sand dunes, swim in the sea, see the falcon souq, and take in the architecturally marvelous skyline, all while traveling in comfort and staying at the best hotels Qatar has to offer.
Get away on an exciting honeymoon to the magical destinations of Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Qatar. From lush tea plantations and wildlife safaris on the island of Sri Lanka to idyllic days on white sandy beaches and turquoise waters of Maldives to Qatar’s unique landscape of heady traditional culture fused with modern metropolis. This 15-day journey promises romance, relaxation, and a dose of adventure.
Turn a stopover in Qatar into an easy and fun mini-vacation for the whole family in just four days. With expansive choice in hotels, international fare, shops, entertainment and cultural complexes, Doha is an easy-to-travel metropolis and family-friendly destination. Excitement and new learning experiences for everyone is abound in Qatar.
Discover Qatar’s natural wonders, a tiny nation that offers sand and sea and everything in between. On this five-day journey, go deep sea fishing in the Arabian Gulf, ride a camel or an ATV on its dunes, kayak through a white mangrove forest, and spot local wildlife at an UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, all while traveling in comfort and staying at the best hotels Qatar has to offer.
Explore the traditions and histories of the Arabian Gulf nations of Qatar, UAE, and Oman on this 11-day itinerary. Discover the cultural similarities these Gulf Nations share as regional neighbors, as well as what makes them each unique and worth exploring.
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