Fun facts about Qatar

Qatar is one of the world’s most fascinating nations, with a history and society that are as fascinating as its terrain and cosmopolitan population. Qatar respects its history while continuing to provide newcomers and tourists with modern conveniences, infrastructure, and a fusion of world cultures, cuisines, and lifestyles. There is always something new to learn, whether you have been here ten days or ten years. We have compiled a list of some fascinating facts about Qatar we bet you didn’t know all of them.

First Arab nation to host the FIFA World Cup

The FIFA World Cup is one of the most thrilling football-related events. The tournament was held in Qatar for the first time and in an Arab nation in 2022. Additionally, it was the only nation to host it during the winter and the smallest to do so. It is also the first World Cup to be carbon neutral. This event received significant importance from Qatar, and it turned out to be a fantastic competition.

Giant teddy bear at Hamad International Airport

One of the first eye-catching sights you will encounter upon arrival in Doha, Qatar, is a gigantic teddy bear at the airport’s main terminal building. The lamp-topped teddy bear stands up in the Hamad International Airport. According to reports, the enormous piece of art cost $6.8 million and weighs close to 20 tonnes. It is certain to attract your attention and has developed into a very well-liked tourist photo location.

Camel races are conducted using robots

Yes, you did read that right. If you didn’t know, camel racing is quite popular in Qatar. Every year, races are held at the Al Shahaniya Camel Racing Track between the months of October and February. Robots have been utilised as camel jockeys since 2004 due to health and safety concerns rather than the traditional employment of kids. The camel herders, who frequently drive alongside the track, are in charge of controlling the robots remotely.

The word Qatar first appeared in 50 AD

The inhabitants of what is now Qatar were referred to as “Catharrei” by the Roman author Pliny the Elder in the middle of the first century, and the name has undergone various changes since then. The spelling Catara was then used until the 18th century, when Katara became more popular. A number of variants, including as Katr, Kattar, and Guttur, were also often used until Qatar was formally chosen as the name of the nation.

Unique design of Burj Doha

One of West Bay’s most recognisable landmarks, this edifice was even declared the best tall skyscraper in the world in 2012. The 46-story tower, which was created by French architect Jean Nouvel, contains a variety of distinctive elements you might not have seen. In addition to being the first skyscraper to use internal reinforced concrete diagrid columns that blend in with the building’s façade, the structure also has no central core. Along with being attractive and evoking the Mashrabiya style of old Islamic architecture, the façade itself shields the building from the sun and changes in density depending on where the sun shines.

History of Qatar’s flag’s creation

First off, in a 1916 deal with the British, Qatar was added as the ninth member of the Gulf’s “reconciled Emirates,” which is symbolised by the nine serrated edges. The colour, Pantone 1955 C, or Qatar maroon, is a tribute to the nation’s participation in the production of purple dye on Al Khor Island. The flag is the only one in the world with a width that is more than twice as large as its height, making it completely unique.