Country Profile: Qatar
Qatar is a small, oil and gas-rich peninsula located in the Middle East, bordered by Saudi Arabia and the Persian Gulf. With a population of approximately 2.55 million, the country has transitioned from a British protectorate to an independent state known for its significant hydrocarbon revenues and high standard of living. Governed by an absolute monarchy, Qatar has been diversifying its economy through the "National Vision 2030" strategy, enhancing investment and employment opportunities. The country also played a pivotal role in regional politics and hosted the FIFA World Cup in 2022, becoming the first Arab nation to do so.
Geography
Qatar's geographical location places it in the central Persian Gulf, featuring a predominantly flat, arid desert landscape. The capital city, Doha, is situated on the eastern coast and houses the majority of the population. The country has a total area of 11,586 square kilometers and maintains a coastline of 563 kilometers.
- 87 km: Total land boundary with Saudi Arabia
- 563 km: Coastline along the Persian Gulf
- 0 sq km: Water area, primarily consisting of desert
- 103 m: Highest point at Tuwayyir al Hamir
People and Society
With an estimated population of 2,552,088 in 2024, Qatar's demographics are heavily skewed towards non-Qataris, who make up around 88.4% of the population. Arabic is the official language, although English is widely spoken. The society is predominantly Muslim, with a diverse mix of other religions present.
- 99.4%: Urban population
- 34.3 years: Median age of the population
- 80.3 years: Life expectancy at birth
- 1.9 children: Total fertility rate (2024 est.)
Economy
Qatar's economy is classified as high-income and is heavily reliant on oil and gas, with the country implementing the "National Vision 2030" to diversify its economic base. The GDP in 2024 is estimated at $317.064 billion (PPP), with a real GDP growth rate of 2.8% for the same year.
- $110,900: GDP per capita (2024 est.)
- 68.6%: Exports of goods and services as a percentage of GDP (2022 est.)
- 0.2%: Unemployment rate (2024 est.)
- $125.216 billion: Total exports (2024 est.)
Government
Qatar operates as an absolute monarchy under the rule of Amir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. The political landscape is characterized by a mixed legal system incorporating both civil and Islamic law. The Shura Council serves as the legislative authority, although political parties are banned.
- 45: Seats in the unicameral Shura Council
- 18 years: Minimum voting age
- September 2025: Expected date for the next Shura election
- 3 September 1971: Date of independence from the UK
Military and Security
The Qatar Armed Forces include land, naval, and air forces, supported by an active-duty personnel strength of approximately 15,000. Military expenditures are around 5% of GDP as of 2023, reflecting significant investment in military modernization and capability expansion.
- 5%: Military expenditures as a percentage of GDP (2023 est.)
- 2,000: Annual conscripts introduced into the military
- 61%: Qatar's military inventory from foreign suppliers (2024)
- Major Non-NATO Ally status awarded by the US
Energy
Energy production is a cornerstone of Qatar's economy, with 99.7% of electricity generation capacity derived from fossil fuels. The country is also a leading exporter of natural gas, and in 2023, it produced 171.805 billion cubic meters of it.
- 100%: Electrification of the population (2022 est.)
- 1.818 million barrels/day: Total petroleum production (2023 est.)
- 24.49 trillion cubic meters: Proven natural gas reserves (2021 est.)
- 127.783 million metric tonnes: Carbon dioxide emissions (2023 est.)
Environment
Qatar faces several environmental challenges including air and water pollution and limited natural freshwater resources. The country is a party to numerous international environmental agreements while striving for better conservation practices.
- 6.4%: Agricultural land use percentage (2022 est.)
- 1,000,990 tons: Municipal solid waste generated annually (2012 est.)
- 3%: Percentage of municipal solid waste recycled (2014 est.)
- 60 million cubic meters: Total renewable water resources (2020 est.)
Transportation
Qatar has made significant investments in its transportation infrastructure, including a network of roads, ports, and air travel facilities. The nation has 8 airports and a burgeoning merchant marine fleet.
- 123: Total vessels in the merchant marine (2023)
- 6: Major ports including Al Rayyan Terminal and Doha
- 8: Airports projected by 2025
- 12: Heliports planned by 2025
Communications
Qatar has a highly connected population with complete internet access and a growing number of phone subscriptions. The solid digital infrastructure supports both local and international media.
- 100%: Internet penetration among the population (2023 est.)
- 4.7 million: Mobile cellular subscriptions (2023 est.)
- 526,000: Fixed-line telephone subscriptions (2023 est.)
- 347,000: Fixed broadband subscriptions (2023 est.)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,552,088 | 2024 estimate |
| Total Area | 11,586 sq km | Land area |
| Real GDP (PPP) | $317.064 billion | 2024 estimate |
| GDP per Capita | $110,900 | 2024 estimate |
| Unemployment Rate | 0.2% | 2024 estimate |
| Birth Rate | 9.2 births/1,000 population | 2024 estimate |
| Life Expectancy | 80.3 years | 2024 estimate |
| Total Energy Consumption per Capita | 814.308 million Btu/person | 2023 estimate |
| Military Expenditures | 5% of GDP | 2023 estimate |
| Total Water Withdrawal | 1.35 billion cubic meters | 2020 estimate |
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