Every country has its own unique attributes; similarly Qatar possesses its own traits that make it a worthwhile experience for expatriates to live there. Despite the hot weather, Qatar has embraced a particular lifestyle that appeals to many people. As the world becomes a global community, Qatar has taken an active role in building its distinct and international identity. At present, Qatar entertains a calm lifestyle that juggles with the rapid progress in social and economic arenas. Qatar presents an interesting dichotomy of traditional culture and modern ideas which have merged to form a country that embraces gradual change. Life in Qatar balances between two polar opposites. The city of Doha is an exemplary highlight of these polar opposites.
The weather and landscape are determinants of how life treats its residents. The sandy texture of roads and overbearing heat are the reason for an efficient system of air conditioning in Qatar. The labour work-force is an unfortunate exception to this luxury, however life in a desert country is hard to imagine without this modern necessity. Many expatriates hesitate moving to Qatar because of the high temperature and occasional sandstorms, but the lifestyle has made these factors virtually insignificant. Locals and many foreigners have turned sand dunes and isolated deserts into venues of racing their jeeps.
It has become a tourist attraction and is a constant source of enjoyment for people who live in Qatar. For those who think that the desert location of this beautiful country is a drawback to living here, they are sadly mistaken!
Traditional culture is considered very valuable among the local residents and hence its preservation is vital. Many people assume that traditional elements may become a hurdle in pursuing a modern lifestyle in Qatar, however this isn't entirely true. The traditional dress for men and women is worn at work, in public places and even at home. Qatar is filled with different nationalities, but the local dress stands out in crowds and is considered a part of their culture.
Does this mean that non-locals are supposed to follow a traditional dress code? Not at all, in fact Qatar embraces a liberal approach and permits people to wear whatever they want as long as it isn't too short and revealing. Many foreigners enjoy wearing what they want at hotel pool-sides, private parties and club nights.
Even though the national language is Arabic, it is easy to communicate and interact at public and work places in English which makes it easier for non-Arabic speakers. These elements symbolize a balanced life of tradition and modernism in Qatar, where languages and cultures are encouraged to co-exist. Arabic, Indian, Pakistani and various western schools in Qatar allow people to experience their native educational system in a foreign country. In essence, Qatar represents strive for balance and moderation as a member of the global community. With the continuous maintenance of its Islamic Museum and participation in hosting events such as the Asian Games (2006), life in Qatar is amusing and constantly innovative. Living here will always give you a reason to look forward to an event or upcoming conference being hosted.
One of the beauties living in this desert includes Doha Corniche and the Dockyard. They assure residents in Qatar that life isn't dry and dusty, it's interesting and enjoyable! The Corniche is a landmark where many people come out for night walks or to watch the floating boats standing in the water. People in Doha are active and prefer spending their weekends at these incredible landmarks. The dockyard has young boisterous people listening to music in their cars and enjoying the calm waves of the water. Life in Qatar is a perfect dwelling for families that find pleasure in the small things of life.
The Corniche overlooks the developing status of Qatar, tall buildings and refined architecture depicts the growth the country. This redirects our focus onto the work-life in the city, which is usually quite calm and scheduled. Most of the offices start early morning and employees return back home by the evening. However, this may vary according to the work environment and job requirements. The week in Qatar starts off with Sunday, and weekend begins by Thursday Night. Subsequently, Friday afternoon traditionally encourages congregational prayer in all areas. The weekends usually leave a lot of time to visit the malls in the city.
Doha city is a luxurious part of the country; expensive cars aren't the only element that embellishes the desert. Their malls are extravagant and entertain expensive designer outlets and western brands. In comparison to these modern malls with several brands available, the Souq areas seem more traditional and less spacious. A few of the modern malls includes 'Villagio' with its Venetian themed architecture which gives people the enjoyment of taking a gondola ride in a small artificial stream in the middle of the mall. Cheaper clothing and groceries are readily available in the comparatively older portions of Doha which have traditionally styled shops, houses and apartments. The housing rent in these areas might be considerably less than the newer apartments and villas. There is a bit of variation of lifestyles in the city to choose from. Sometimes newly employed bachelors choose to reside in cheaper areas; however families opt for bigger and more accessible areas to malls, office or school areas.
Food is one of life's necessities, and even small town areas such as Dukhan and Al Khor are able to enjoy Doha city's delectable delights. Due to the variation of nationalities, the city has embraced numerous flavours and recipes. Dining out is a savouring experience in itself, every restaurant maintains its native recipes and ingredients which help personify cultural themes. It is an exciting venture to see lines of western food chains and Turkish and Indian restaurants situated in the same location. Living in Qatar means tasting foods from all over the world. However dining out isn't always everyone's cup of tea, many expats prefer cooking at home. Well-stocked chains of departmental and grocery stores allows people to cook food with ingredients from different countries. Living in Qatar could be a tasteful experience if you like shopping for foods or dining out.
Being an employee in some of the growing companies of Qatar brings a lot of perks. Some contracts include housing allowance and most of them guarantee medical benefits, and to ensure that their employees have an enjoyable residence they also provide recreational club memberships. Qatar has many recreational clubs specifically for their employees and families, it is a place where people can get together, play games and relax. If recreational clubs aren't enough to keep you pre-occupied for the weekend, you can always head out to open parks or events.
Education has taken an important stance in Qatar's internal affairs, schools and universities are seen as an important asset of the country's socio-economic progress. Another one of Qatar's elaborately designed plans includes Education City. It is a huge piece of land that encircles schools and universities where several students reside and study. Having the opportunity to study at these prestigious universities is difficult; however the government has allowed loans through the institutions therefore many graduates are now able to work and live in Qatar. Life can become a full span circle in this country, and the growth of universities has allowed many residents to stay back and study in the city rather than move back to their home country. If you are looking into studying at a well-known western institution, Qatar is more than willing to entertain the idea with its growing educational motive.
Social life in Qatar depends on your personal interests. It is easy to join national, sports or parental groups that meet up and plan events. Many expats that feel away from home join their own national community and contribute to cultural events and donations. It is one of the few ways to stay in touch with your own roots. Others indulge in hobbies such as horse riding at the Equestrian Club in Doha, or join religious or support groups.
An advantage of living in Qatar is that the country hosts various sports events. Couple of the most important tennis tournaments have taken place in Qatar which has made it a visiting spot for many famous people. It is exciting to live in a place where something is constantly happening; it invigorates the interest of residents and makes them feel more connected to the country as a whole.
In general, Qatar is a rather clean and well-kempt place. Littering is looked down upon and the city of Doha is decorated with greenery, deserts and a combination of lights at night. It is a breathtaking sight to see the night lights reflect into the Corniche water while people walk there at night. In the winters it becomes a hub for people who like exercising, jogging and taking walks in the evening. The weather becomes more pleasant and slightly chilly at night which leads to more young people socializing at nights near tea places.
For those who really want to know the intricacies of living in Qatar should experience Ramadan. This Islamic month is usually full of meal deals across the country, and it is followed by Eid holidays, which means everyone is free of work and studies. It is a relaxing time to be in Doha.
Qatar is a comfortable place to live, however people are usually careful of speaking out against the government. It is considered respectful to remain quiet about any disconcertment and there is rarely an occasion where the media or people speak out against anything. The government is very attentive towards its local people and tries its best to make them feel comfortable and culturally relevant in an international environment. Living in Qatar requires a sense of respect for the government. The country prefers a tranquil ambience so it is vital to avoid chaos or clashes of any kind. Qatar isn't involved in any sort of political anarchy or opposition, which makes life over there more comfortable and safe. People who originally belong to politically unstable countries feel safer raising their children in Doha. Many of them believe there is a better chance of consistent and better education and social life in Qatar than their own country.
Hosting the FIFA 2022 is another reason to enjoy life in Qatar. The country is already preparing for the huge event and this development has incorporated itself as a slogan in many other events. This is a fruitful chance to see Qatar grow and reach its true potential; this has led towards many job openings for professionals all over the world. This means it will be an eventful and internationally stimulating environment to live in at present and onwards.
In conclusion, it is safe to suggest that Qatar's lifestyle is comfortable and politically safe. With its growing economy, it seems to be an internationally welcoming place. Life in Qatar could be a prosperous and productive journey for many professionals to be hired ahead. The country has gradually become a tourist attraction, which means that life in the deserts is worthy of story-telling for those who haven't visited the sand where camels tread. Food and culture are interesting factors that bring more life and vigour to the city life. The fancy night lights and cars are just an additional enjoyment to Doha, but what is truly worth the time is the Corniche and Dockyard in the night time. For those who love shopping and prefer western and designer brands, Qatar could prove to be a shopper's paradise. Qatar is a place where people have built safe and happy lives, despite being away from home they have found joy in the native things found in this foreign country. By allowing different nationalities to thrive in togetherness, Qatar has embraced an international lifestyle that has taught patience and tolerance to upcoming generations. The locals and expats have worked together to bring peaceful co-existence and progress to Qatar. This has resulted in a lifestyle that romanticizes socio-economic development and betterment.
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