Qatar is one of the countries in the Middle East that’s changing rapidly. Around 40 years ago, it was basically no more than a town but today it’s a huge, modern country, a popular tourist destination, and soon to be the host of the World Cup. If you plan on visiting it, here are some things you didn’t know about it.
An Emirate
Qatar is one of the smallest countries in the world and an emirate, which means it’s ruled by the Emir of Qatar. The head of the monarchy is Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, who has been ruling the country since 2013 when his father Hamad bin Khalifa abdicated the throne. The family has been in power since 1868.
The Safest Country
Qatar is considered the safest country in the world. Doha, the country’s capital, has the lowest crime index and highest safety index compared to all the cities in the world, according to Numbeo. It’s also safe from natural disasters with only 0.1% chance of earthquakes.
No Forests
Qatar doesn’t have any forests and is one of only four territories with this feature. Besides Qatar, other places without forests are San Marino, Greenland, and Oman. Qatar’s landscape is flat, with the highest point reaching 338 feet (103 meters). It’s actually the second flattest country in the world after the Maldives.