Qatar
With its expanding production of natural gas and oil, Qatar is in the midst of an economic boom. This tiny country – only 11,347 sq km in total – was the world’s top liquefied natural gas exporter in 2007, and its per capita income has become one of the highest in the world.
This prosperity has seen Qatar investing in and developing its education and healthcare infrastructure. The Qatar Foundation’s Education City, located in the capital city of Doha, is home to several branch campuses of American universities including Weill Cornell Medical School, Texas A&M, and Carnegie Mellon. Education City will be the home of the Sidra Medical and Research Center, a specialty women’s and children’s hospital slated to open in 2011. In 2006, the Hamad Medical Corporation established Hamad Medical City, also in Doha, which houses new specialty hospital facilities (totaling more than 1,000 beds), Ministry of Public Health offices, and staff housing and recreation.
Qatar is also investing in its reputation as a leading sports destination. In 2000, Doha was nominated to host the 15th Asian Games in 2006. In preparation for the Games, the Aspire Zone was created. The Aspire Zone is a world-class sports facility that houses the Aspire Sports Academy, the National Teams Super Club, the Hamad Aquatic Centre, and the opulent Khalifa International Stadium. In January 2008, Doha submitted its bid to host the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Weather
In the summer the heat can be fierce, with temperatures reaching 45C (113F) or higher. Winter temperatures are much cooler, dropping as low as 7C (45F) at night.
Time
Qatar is seven hours ahead of Eastern Daylight Time, and eight hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time.
Shopping
There is a plethora of shopping options in Doha, from traditional souks (markets) to modern air-conditioned malls.
Recreation & Entertainment
There is much to see and do in Qatar. Dune-bashing in the desert, attending the theatre, diving in and sailing on the Arabian Gulf, horse and camel riding, dancing at hotel discos, and playing on a professional standard golf course to name only a few.
