Qatar, officially the State of Qatar, is a country located in Western Asia on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. It is bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south and surrounded by the Persian Gulf on all other sides. Qatar is known for its rapid economic growth, modern infrastructure, and strong demand for foreign labor.

Qatar covers an area of approximately 11,571 square kilometres and has a population of around 2.7 million people as of 2025–2026, with expatriates making up the majority of the population.


Key Country Information

  • Capital City: Doha
  • Head of State (Emir): Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani
  • Official Language: Arabic
  • Currency: Qatari Riyal (QAR)
  • International Dialing Code: +974

Population and Economy

Qatar has a population of approximately 2.7 million, of which more than 85% are foreign nationals. It has one of the highest GDPs per capita in the world.

The economy is heavily supported by natural gas and oil, but it is also expanding into construction, aviation, logistics, tourism, healthcare, education, and financial services. Doha is the main economic and employment center.


International Memberships

  • United Nations (UN): Member since 1971
  • Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC): Member since 1981
  • Arab League: Member
  • Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC): Member
  • World Trade Organization (WTO): Member since 1996

Living and Working in Qatar

Qatar is a popular destination for foreign workers due to its tax-free salaries, high demand for labor, and modern living standards. Job opportunities are widely available in construction, oil and gas, hospitality, healthcare, education, transportation, and domestic services.

Foreign nationals must have a work visa and residence permit, which are sponsored by a Qatari employer. Recent labor reforms have improved worker mobility, contract transfer rules, and wage protection systems.

The cost of living is relatively high in Doha, but many employers provide accommodation, transport, and medical insurance as part of employment packages.


Summary

Qatar is a wealthy Gulf nation with a strong energy-based economy and a large expatriate workforce. As a member of the UN, GCC, OIC, and WTO, Qatar continues to attract foreign workers seeking stable employment, competitive salaries, and modern living conditions in the Middle East.