Country Profile

Since gaining independence in 1971, Qatar has quickly risen to prominence both regionally and internationally to become an economic, political and cultural powerhouse in the Middle East. With a relatively small local population and substantial revenues generated from natural gas, Qatar has the world’s highest GDP per capita, averaging approximately $100,000. Prior to 2010, the country was mostly known internationally as the home of the media network Al Jazeera, yet this changed when Qatar won the contest to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup in December 2010. As the first and only Arab nation ever to host the event, Qatar has witnessed considerable press coverage since. Whether focusing on its extensive international investments, ample spending at home on substantial infrastructure projects, labour migration issues or the state’s involvement in foreign and regional affairs, Qatar has made a name for itself in the international arena.

This chapter contains a viewpoint from Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of Qatar; and interviews with Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior; Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice-Chairperson and CEO, Qatar Foundation; and Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President, Qatar Olympic Committee.

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