Qatar has moved on from being a poor pearl fishing country to become one of the richest Gulf states, thanks to the exploitation of oil and gas fields since the 1940s.

The majority of the country consists of sand dunes and salt flats. The city of Doha combines a rich mixture of traditional Arabic and modern architecture. The Grand Mosque with its many domes and the Abu Bakir al-Siddiq Mosque are particularly interesting. The north contains most of the historic sites, including Umm Salal Mohammed, a relatively large village dominated by the ruins of a 19th-century fort.

Al Khor is the second-largest city, situated around a natural shallow harbour. On the west coast there are fine beaches at Umm Bab (‘The Palm Tree Beach’), Dukhan and Salwah near the Saudi border. The south is a region of sand dunes and beaches, offering opportunities to go pearl hunting, or to practise any of a number of watersports.

11,437 sq km (4,416 sq miles).

907,229 (UN estimate 2003).

54 per sq km.

Doha. Population: 286,000 (UN estimate 2003).

Emirate since 1971. Gained independence from the UK in 1971. 

Arabic is the official language. Some English is spoken.

Islam.

GMT + 3.

The visitor should be fully aware of Muslim religious laws and customs. Women should always dress modestly. It is also worth noting that, while it is acceptable to cross legs, showing the sole of the foot or unknowingly pointing it at a person is considered an insult. At business and social functions, the traditional Qatari coffee, in tiny handleless cups, will invariably be served. This is a ritual of welcome with strict rules: guests are served in order of seniority – a few drops at first, then, after three or four others have been served, the server returns to fill the first cup; always hold the cup in the right hand; two cups are polite, but never take only one or more than three.

220-240 volts AC, 50Hz.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hamad bin Jassem since 2007.

Crown Prince Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani since 1995.