General Information

Qatar is member of the Arab Gulf Cooperation Council, the Arab League and the United Nations. The official language is Arabic, but English is widely used. The religion is Islam; the society draws its traditions and values from Arab and Muslim culture. The legal system is based on the Sharia Law; crime rate is one of the lowest in the world. The streets are safe and private property is seldom vandalized. Qatar has a desert climate, characterized by long hot summers and short winters with very little rain. The land is generally flat with the exception of a few hills in the North West. Vegetation is sparse, though some farms have been established in the North. Shopping in Qatar is very reasonable compared to countries in the Gulf region. The cost of living, Basic food and accommodations are relatively inexpensive and prices are competitive.

Traditional "souqs" or Arab markets offer a unique shopping experience where bargaining is a common practice. Modern shopping malls offer convenience and wide variety of imported consumer goods. Thursdays and Fridays are official Holidays in Qatar. Shopping malls are usually open everyday from 8:00am to 10:00pm. The Souqs are open everyday from 8:00am to 12:00 noon and in the evening from 4:00pm to 9:00pm

The State of Qatar lies on the west coast of the Arabian Peninsula and extends into the Arabian Gulf. There are 3 hospitals in Qatar:

Places of interest

Qatar National Museum Corniche Doha Park Al Khor Tower Wakrah Museum Qatar Golf Club Umm Bab Ummsaieed Alaaddin Kingdom Koot Fortress Camel & Horse Racing Tracks The Zoo Al Zubarah Fortress Sealine Resort Khor Al Udeid Dukhan Palm Tree Island

Immigration

All expatriates require valid resident permits to reside and work in Qatar. Entry visit visa for immediate members of family may also be obtained upon request. The Immigration Section at the Personnel Department arranges entry visa applications, resident permits and renewals and exit permits. .

Driving

The Traffic Department of the Ministry of Interior requires all drivers living in Qatar to hold either a permanent or temporary licenses based on their residence status; as a Qatari license is required to drive in the country. Driving on the road is on the right-hand side Females over 18 years of age are allowed to drive in Qatar. Driving application forms are available at the Department of Public Relations.

Schools

There is Government, Private, Embassy and Company run schools; some follow the American curriculum, some the British and others like the Embassy schools follow their own country's curriculum. Government schools are generally for Qatari nationals, although they may accept other nationalities. Its curriculum is in Arabic. All other schools impose a monthly or academic term fees. Average fee per 3 month term could run up to QR2000.00 per child depending on the school, the child's age and school class.