Page 6 - Expat Living Autumn 2017

historian Herodotus and the geographer Ptolemy.
Islamic Qatari history probably began in the middle of
the 7th century A.D. when Qatar came under the rule of
the Al-Munzir Arabs.
Until the discovery of oil in the middle of this century,
Qatar had few inhabitants and relied on trading,
pearling, and fishing. Indeed, the entire lower gulf was a Some health concerns in Qatar are primarily caused
prolific producer of pearls and the pearl industry was a
major source of wealth in Qatar. Many of the prominent
Qatari families, including the ruling al-Thani family, are It is more prevalent among those who have recently
former pearl merchants.
Beginning in the 18th century with the migration of
tribes from what is now Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, Qatar
developed into a modern Islamic civilization. The Turks
occupied the country in 1868, and absorbed it into the
Ottoman Empire.
At the beginning of World War I, Turkish forces were
evacuated from Qatar, and, in 1916, the United Kingdom
negotiated a treaty recognizing Sheikh Abdullah al-
Thani as ruler. The Sheikh agreed not to dispose of
any territory or enter into any relationships with other
governments without British consent. In return, the
British offered protection against aggression. A British
protectorate until 1971, Qatar retains some British
cultural flavour.
Oil was discovered in Qatar in 1940 by the Qatar
Petroleum Company, owned by Anglo-Dutch, French and
US interests. Exports did not begin until 1949, but the
1950s and 1960s began a period of increasing oil revenues, Sunburn is an obvious and constant danger. Use
growth of oil-related wealth, and a surge of immigration.
Oil revenues have brought extensive changes to Qatar
with modernized communications systems, distinctive
contemporary architecture, and an influx of expatriates
seeking new opportunities. Native Qataris enjoy a high
standard of living, and many social service benefits.
In recent years, Qatar has implemented changes that will
likely have significant impact in the years to come. These
include women’s right to vote in municipal elections, a
written constitution, and national legislative elections.
Despite the fact that Qatar is small in size and may not
be as geographically interesting as some of its middle
eastern neighbors, it offers a wide range of leisure and
social activities; a well-established telecommunications
network; a lower cost of living, and a hospitable, family- of business visa are available. A 72-hour business visa
oriented native culture.
Climate
Summer in Qatar is brutally hot, with temperatures
reaching well over 100°F/38°C. In spite of the dryness,
relative humidity along the coast remains quite high
and oppressive, and there is little relief from either on
summer evenings.
Winters are somewhat milder, and some evenings are
quite cool with pleasant breezes. Rainfall is extremely
light, averaging less than three inches a year and falls
mostly during the winter months in short, sudden
cloudbursts. January and February are the coldest
months with periodic heavy rain.
06 EXPATLIVING
Sandstorms or dust storms can occur at any time of
year, and are particularly common in the interior. Winds
from the north, known as shamals, are unpleasant as
they absorb moisture and stir up sand and dust.
Health
by the extreme climate. Heat exhaustion is caused by
dehydration or salt deficiency and can be dangerous.
arrived. Be sure to drink plenty of water.
Heat stroke is a serious condition that occurs when the
body’s temperature rises to dangerous levels. Protect
against heat stroke by drinking plenty of fluids and
avoiding long exposure to the heat and sun. Symptoms
include throbbing headaches, lack of coordination,
confusion, or aggressive behaviour. Prompt hospital
treatment is essential.
Prickly heat, caused by excessive perspiration trapped
under the skin, is usually a problem for new arrivals. Stay
as cool as possible, bathe often, and use a mild talcum
powder.
Fungal infections are most likely to occur on the scalp,
between the toes or fingers, and on other parts of the
body. Prevent infections by wearing loose, comfortable
clothes made of natural fibers. Bathe frequently and dry
carefully.
sunscreen and wear clothing and hats that protect from
the sun at all times.
Consult your doctor before departure about all of the
above and plan to take the items necessary for this hot
climate, such as hats, talcum powder, sunscreens, and
sunglasses.
Visas & Permits
Nationals of 33 countries may apply for a visa upon
arrival, or through their nearest Qatari embassy. Visa
on arrivals are valid for one month and cannot be
extended. Tourist and business visas are valid for 30
days. Nationals of other countries, as well as extended
stay and multiple entry applicants, must apply for a visa
through the Ministry of Interior in Doha.Several types
can be issued on arrival, and extended for an additional
72 hours. Other business visa types must be arranged
prior to departure. One-month business visas can be
extended for a total of three months. Longer business
visas are also available.Visa applicants will need to
provide two colour passport-sized photographs, a
completed application, proof of two photocopies of
the identification portion of the passport, and all fees.
Business visa applicants will need to provide a letter
from the sponsoring company. Additional requirements,
such as a health check or police certificate, can apply.A
business visa holder acts as sponsor for visas issued
to spouse and children. All family members, including