What is Qatar’s Capital, Currency and Population?

Qatar is a small but powerful country in West Asia, sitting on the Qatar Peninsula along the Persian Gulf. Its capital is Doha, where most people live. Known for natural gas, world-class airlines, and fast development, Qatar often appears in news and exams. This article explains Qatar in easy language, with clear points that help you remember key facts quickly.

An Overview of Qatar

• Location: Northeastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula in the Middle East
• Land Border: Only with Saudi Arabia (to the south)
• Nearby: Separated from Bahrain by the Gulf of Bahrain
• Landscape: Mostly flat, low-lying desert; highest point is just ~103 m
• Climate: Very hot summers, mild winters; very low rainfall
• Capital: Doha (home to over 80% of residents)

Capital of Qatar

Doha is the capital and largest city of Qatar. It sits on the country’s east coast along the Persian Gulf and houses the majority of the population, serving as the political, financial, and cultural hub.

Currency of Qatar

The Qatari riyal (QAR) is the official currency. It is pegged to the US dollar at 1 USD = 3.64 QAR, a rate maintained by the Qatar Central Bank.

Population of Qatar

As of 2025, Qatar’s mid-year population is estimated at about 3.12 million. Most residents are expatriates, with citizens forming a minority—an important point for social and economic questions in exams.

Historical Background of Qatar

• Pre-modern era: The peninsula has long been part of regional trade routes across the Gulf.
• Ottoman & British periods: Qatar moved from Ottoman influence to British protection in the early 20th century.
• Independence: Full independence came in 1971; Doha was confirmed as the capital.
• Gas-led growth: From the 1990s onward, developing the North Field gas reserves transformed Qatar into a high-income economy and a major LNG supplier.

Location of Qatar

• Region: West Asia / Middle East
• Geography: A peninsula projecting ~160 km into the Persian Gulf
• Neighbor: Saudi Arabia (land border)
• Notable features: Khor Al Adaid (Inland Sea) dunes; Jebel Dukhan limestone ridge and onshore oil field area.

Political System and Governance

Qatar is a unitary monarchy. The Emir is the head of state and appoints the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers. The Consultative Assembly (Shura Council) is a 45-member body, with 30 members elected (first elections held in 2021) and 15 appointed by the Emir. The system blends a written constitution with strong executive powers and a partially elected legislature. Arabic is the official language and Islam is the official religion.

Language and Religion

• Language: Arabic (official); English widely used.
• Religion: Islam (state religion).
• Human development: Qatar ranks in the “very high” HDI group among Arab states (check latest HDI table when quoting exact rank in exams).

What is Qatar Known for?

Qatar is known for its gas-powered wealth and leading role in liquefied natural gas (LNG). Its capital, Doha, features a striking skyline, top museums like the Museum of Islamic Art, and world-class Qatar Airways via Hamad International Airport. The country hosts major sports events (2022 FIFA World Cup), runs Al Jazeera, practices active Middle East diplomacy, and offers desert adventures at the Inland Sea.