Human occupation of Qatar dates 50,000 years ago. Mesopotamia was the first civilization to have a presence in the area during the Neolithic period. Qatar is ranked as one of the 30 most peaceful countries in the world by the Global Peace Index. Qatar is an Islamic country and follows customs within their local laws and regulations. Government offices, shops, banks and other businesses may have shorter work hours during the holy month of Ramadan.
Qatar is an oil-rich peninsula jutting out into the Arabian Gulf between Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates. Qatar has a dry, subtropical desert climate with low annual rainfall and intensely hot and humid summers. When outdoors, be sure to wear sunscreen and a hat while constantly keeping yourself hydrated.
Arabic is the national language of Qatar, but due to the large expatriate population residing in the country, English, Urdu, French, Malayalam and Tagalog (Filipino) are also widely used.
Qatar has a mix of historic and modern special attractions and activities available, from the Neolithic Al Jassasiya rock carvings, to the beautiful view and upscale shops at the Pearl Qatar in the capital city of Doha. Qatar provides a blend of local and diverse social and night life, shopping experiences and dining and restaurants.
