From the very first time when the RQBC founders started to explore the possibility of developing a business in Qatar, they were not only impressed by a myriad of business opportunities but also by Qatar’s culture, people, and fusion of ancient and modern elements, to name just a few examples. Qatar is a country whose people have preserved their ancient heritage, while at the same time transforming their land into an ultramodern hub for business and tourism.

This is where things are happening! And there is plenty to discover about a country like Qatar, which also boasts as having the world’s third largest reserves of oil and natural gas, one of the world’s highest per capita GDP, and without a doubt, the megalopolis of foreign direct investment of the Middle East. Our team at RQBC invites you to ‘Get to Know Qatar’ in a succinct portrayal, and then, we extend the invitation for you to visit us and this magnificent country.

History of Qatar

The annals of history indicate that the Qatar Peninsula was populated as far back as 50,000 years ago by inhabitants who lived in coastal settlements. Throughout the centuries, nomadic tribes and fishermen inhabited the area, periodically, engaging in fishing, pearling, and trading. Given the harsh climate, lack of diverse resources, and most likely internal conflicts seem to have contributed to the failure to ensure the continuity of the settlements.

In the 1760s, an increase in trade between Kuwait and the local Qataris resulted in the establishment of the town of Al-Zubarah, which also marked the beginning of the Qatar’s modern-day history. By 1916, Qatar had become a British Protectorate in order to secure its military protection against the Ottomans, Bahrainis, and other invading forces, and on September 3, 1971 it regained its independence following the termination of the treaties with Britain.

Nowadays, Qatar is an independent emirate, and due to the leadership’s homogeneity, and the country’s resources and wealth, it prides itself on having political stability and economic prosperity. 

Geography

Qatar is a peninsula located in the east of Arabia, and has a total of 11,571 km2 of low-lying land. The peninsula of Qatar has a direct border with Saudi Arabia sharing a land area of approximately 87 kilometers, and in the Persian Gulf it neighbors Iran, Kuwait, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, and Oman. The topography of Qatar is characterized by smooth plains in the east, sand dunes and salt flats in the south and south-west, and in the western and northern parts there are hill ranges.

The climate is marked by arid conditions, with year-round sunshine, very hot and humid summers with temperatures sometimes exceeding 40 degrees C, and mild winters with temperatures sometimes dropping as low as 7 degrees C. Annual rainfall is scarce, with an average of 70 mm, and short-lived rain showers occur between the months of October to March. The flora and fauna include tropical trees, shrubs, various grasses, and marine life, such as turtles, dugongs, dolphins, sharks, etc., and around 1000 terrestrial species. 

Things to do in Doha, Qatar

The Pearl-Qatar

The Pearl-Qatar is a marvel of man’s vision and technology, an authentic feat of what the genius of man can accomplish when all of the resources work synergistically for the development and wellbeing of mankind. This jewel of the Persian Gulf is a man-made island located outside Doha, and it was built to offer its residents and tourists alike an experience of luxury living, shopping and entertainment. Just like a pearl seems to have infinite iridescence, so does the Pearl-Qatar with its countless features, such as a Mediterranean-style harbor, residential towers, villas, five-star hotels, designer boutiques, art centers, and an array of dining options. Moreover, for those who enjoy outdoor activities, the Pearl-Qatar has beautiful gardens, playgrounds, parks, community sports courts, swimming pools, boardwalks, etc. The Pearl-Qatar is truly an oasis of luxury and comfort, offering even the most discerning resident or visitor an exquisite experience of unforgettable memories. 

Souq Waqif

This historical marketplace was founded at least a century ago near the riverbed of Wadi Musheireb, and it was initially used by the Bedouin people and local Qataris to trade their goods. Souq Waqif has a traditional Qatari architectural style, and after a fire destroyed most of it in 2003, it has been brought to an authentic condition with the help of a restoration project funded by the government in 2008, maintaining its status as a heritage landmark. Strolling or shopping in Souq Waqif, one feels as though enveloped in a throwback vibe where shopkeepers trade banter with one another and clients, and sell everything from souvenirs and traditional artifacts and garments to spices and pets. Along the winding alleys of the marketplace there is a wide variety of eateries for all budgets and tastes. Souq Waqif is also home to the Abdul Aziz Naser Theatre, which is quite an unexpected feature in a marketplace context, but nonetheless a place where the locals and tourists are treated to a variety of shows, festivals, concerts, recitals, and other performances.    

Katara Cultural Village

This is Doha’s most popular destination for those who want to immerse themselves in a universe of sensorial delights, where each and every attraction builds onto itself, reminding visitors to explore more, indulge more, seeking to satisfy even the most unknown passions that they may have. Located on the eastern coast between West Bay and the Pearl-Qatar, Katara Cultural Village offers an array of cultural and educational venues, including museums, art galleries, permanent street art installations, performance centers, and a planetarium. In the Katara Cultural Village visitors can also experience two of the most breathtaking places of worship in Qatar– namely, the Katara Mosque designed by the first female architect to specialize in mosque architecture, and the Golden Mosque which is covered by an overlay of golden mosaic tiles which compete even with the sparkling Arabian sun. And just like at any popular attraction in Doha, the choice of eateries is extensive and never disappoints any palate, from high-end restaurants to budget-friendly food kiosks and cafes. Last but not least, nearby the Katara Cultural Village, the Katara beach and the Katara Hills await visitors for leisure and recreational activities.

The jewels of Qatar are irresistible! The staff at RQBC wish you “Happy Explorations and Many Happy Memories!”