Qatar
Country Description
Qatar is a monarchy governed by the ruling Al Thani family in consultation with a council of ministers, an appointed advisory council and an elected municipal council. In April 2003, approximately 96 percent of voters approved a new constitution, which came into force in June 2005. Islamic ideals and beliefs provide the foundation of the country's customs, laws and practices. Located in the heart of the Persian Gulf, Qatar is a dynamic, modernizing, rapidly- developing country that is among the wealthiest per capita in the world. The capital is Doha.
The Qatari peninsula juts 100 miles (160 km) into the Persian Gulf from Saudi Arabia. Much of the country consists of a low, barren plain, covered with sand. To the southeast lies the spectacular Khor al Adaid or 'Inland Sea', an area of rolling sand dunes surrounding an inlet of the Gulf.
Official Languages: Arabic; Other languages: English, Urdu
Official Currency: Qatari riyal
Climate
The sun shines virtually every day in Qatar, and rainfall is almost non-existent, averaging about three inches (80mm) a year, this falling only in winter. Summers are sizzling hot by day, and warm at night, temperatures often hitting the 104°F mark (40°C) or above. Winters are only slightly cooler by day, but can be very chilly at night.
