The state is a traditional monarchy, but the ruling Emir Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani is an aggressive moderniser, introducing such things as complete women's suffrage and the somewhat notorious Al Jezeera independent and uncensored news organisation.

The country has virtually never experienced any sort of terrorist activity or violent protest, indeed, the coup that put the current emir in power (from his father) was completely bloodless. It is considered a very safe destination.

Qatar is on track to becoming one of the wealthiest countries in the world on a per capita basis. its traditional pearl industry largely died in the 20th century, however this has been replaced with one of the world's largest reserves of natural gas, which is behind the recent construction and modernisation boom. Its a pretty exicting place to be...

Some Practical facts

With its relatively low prices and lack of duties, it is a popular shopping spot for the other Mid East states as well as long distance travellers.

You will need a Visa to enter. You can apply online.

The currency is the the Qatari Riyal (QAR), roughly:
1 EUR = 4.6 QAR
1 GBP = 6.97 QAR
1 USD = 3.64 QAR

Time zone is 3 hours ahead of UK/ GMT
Dialling code: 974
Electricity is 240V, 50Hz

What to do in Qatar

Apart from watching super motoGP action and relaxing in the lap of luxury on the crystalline beaches of one of the top resorts in the Middle East, you will not be short of things to do.

If you can't get enough motor sport action:

• 4x4 dune bashing in the desert
• diving
• sailing
• sand boarding
• or even take a camel trip
• and don't forget the golf...

Night life

While a traditional moslem country, Doha has some nightspots which we will be happy to point you to! The international hotels are popular hang-outs for locals as well as guests, and there is always something going on.

The local ex-pat community has established its own places, and we will be on the lookout for the best parties around the GP.

Arabic food is some of our favourite, and Doha has some of the best. Check out Bandar for their seafood and middle eastern fare - typically less than USD 20 per head! The Marriott has several restaurants -- and of course the VIP Village won't let you starve!

Outside Doha

With a population of only 800,000, even in this tiny country of 11,400 sq km it is possible to truly 'get away from it all'.

Perhaps just as well, while Doha is a clean and architecturally interesting city, it is not known for its excitement... If you can drag yourself away from the beaches, there are a number of sights inthe country worth the trip.

• Zubra fort (pictured) at the north west coast of Qatar is your classic desert stronghold - straight from a David Lean movie. you can almost feel Crusaders assaulting its walls
• The town of Umm Salal Ali (40km north of Doha) has grave mounds from the 3rd millenium BC
• Al-Khor 65km north of Doha boasts medieval watchtowers, and is also famous for views of the gulf

See also the official tourist board web site http://www.experienceqatar.com/