Recent history saw Qatar under the influence of the Portuguese, who at the time saw them establish control over many areas in the Gulf for Trade and Navigation. In 1538 the Ottoman Empire took control although the real power stayed in the hands of the local Sheikhs. Qatar remained a British protectorate until 1971 when Britain decided to withdraw from the Arabian Gulf area. Qatar then adopted a provisional constitution declaring it an independent Arab country with an official religion of Islam.

Qatar lies on a peninsula position between Bahrain to the West and the United Arab Emirates to the East. The country is just over 120 miles long and 60 miles across. Some 700 kilometres of coastline explains the passion and relationship the people of Qatar have with the sea.

Often regarded as the Gulf’s best kept secret, interest from tourists has gradually increased and over the past 2 years at an unprecedented level. New developments can be seen all over the capital city of Doha, as preparations are well underway to host the 2006 Asia Games. Other projects such as the Pearl Qatar, a man made island project focusing on luxurious residences and luxury hotels.

The capital of Doha, with a population of approximately 650,000 is a thriving community that has grown quickly from a fishing and pearling village. The bustling atmosphere around the Suoq Waqif is an experience in itself with wonderful smells of incense and spices.

Doha's Corniche is one of the finest in the Middle East. Stretching for seven km, it is pop­ular both with locals and tourists, especially those who are seeking to get fit and those who just want to take a gentle stroll and admire the scenery. The Qatar National Museum is located on the Doha Corniche and was built in 1912 as a pal­ace for the ruler of Qatar, occupied first by Sheikh Hamad Bin Abdullah Al-Thani. In 1972, it was rebuilt as a national museum and it was officially opened in 1975.

Some fantastic excursions are not to be missed. The inland sea safari crosses the impressive sand dunes in 4 wheel drives before you arrive at the inland sea. The day can be spent swimming or relaxing admiring the landscape. For lovers of golf, the Doha Golf Club lies only 15 minutes from the city centre and is home to the Qatar Masters PGA tournament and consists of an 18 hole championship course, a 9 hole academy course and driving range.

CURRENCY:	Qatari Riyal
TIME DIFFERENCE:	GMT+3
VISA:	Issued on arrival for a stays of 21 days – cost 55 Qatari Riyal (approx US$16)
VACCINATIONS:	No compulsory Vaccinations