History

Evidence of early habitation in Qatar that can be traced as far back as to the 4th century BC appeared in many artifacts such as inscriptions, rock carvings, flint spearheads and examples of pottery which were all uncovered by the Danish (1965), the British (1973) and the French (1976) expeditions. Researchers knew al-Wasil hills since 1957 as an important site of Stone Age archeology. About 200 archeological sites of the prehistoric age were discovered during the eight years of the work of the Danish expedition from 1965 to 1975.

Several sites of various periods in the Stone Age were discovered to the east of Um Bab. Other sites were found in the southernmost border near Soudanthil. An important site for the manufacture of flint tools, which probably goes back to the Mesolithic Stone Age, was discovered at Umm Tag to the south west of Dukhan; and new sites were discovered to the south east of Mesaieed.

In the 5th century BC, the Greek historian Herodotus referred to the seafaring canaanites as the original inhabitants of Qatar. Further, the geographer Ptolemy showed in his map of the Arab world 'gatara' as believed to refer to the Qatari town of Zubarah, which has acquired the fame of being one of the most important trading ports in the gulf region at the time.

Qatar in the Islamic History

In the Islamic history in the middle of the 7th century AD, the Qatar peninsula and the surrounding region were under the rule of the Al Munzir Arabs. Their king, al-Munzir Ibn Sawi al-Tamimi, embraced Islam, and Qatar entered the realm of Islamic civilization and has participated in all its successive stages and eras.

Spears. Under the Abbasid state during the 8th century AH (14th century AD), Qatar experienced great economic prosperity and pledged a great deal of financial support towards maintaining the Caliphate in Baghdad. Evidence of such support can be gleaned from the inscriptions of Murwab fort on the western coast of the peninsula, which bears the marks of the Abbasid architectural style. During the 10th century AH (16th century AD),

Education

The Regular governmental education had been introduced in 1952 The Ministry of Education was one of the first ministries to be established in Qatar; it was set up in 1956. The system of modern education was begun in three stages Primary -- 6 years Preparatory -- 3 years, Secondary -- 3 years.

The University education began in Qatar in 1973 the School of Teachers formed the nucleus of Qatar University which now includes seven faculties. The government provides all sectors of the Qatari people with all types of education, general and specialized. It also offers adult education and literacy programs, and there are special classes for the handicapped as part of this strategic vision.

The Emir of Qatar Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, has established Qatar Foundation for Education, Science Community Development in1995. This has put Qatar on the international map of Education. It is a private, non-profit chartered organization, founded in It aims to develop and utilize human potential through a network of centers and a unique Education City, with branch campuses of some of the world's leading universities. Is presided by her highness Sheikha Mouzah Bint Nasser A- Misnad, Consort of H.H the Emir. For more information please visit : www.qf.edu.qa

Health

Qatar has very good public medical facilities, with an extensive network of public hospitals and healthcare centres covering the whole country, run by the Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC). Doha has four public hospitals providing a wide range of specialized medical services.

The government has also encouraged the development of the private health sector, and there are now many private hospitals and clinics which charge on a fee per consultation basis For more information please visit: www.hmc.org.qa

Leisure

Qatar has become world-renowned for its hosting of many high profile sporting events, including in recent years The 15th Asian games Doha 2006, ATP Tennis tour, the Exxon/Mobil Open, and the Qatar Masters, part of the European Golf Tour.

There are facilities and clubs for virtually all forms of sport, including horse racing, camel racing, boat racing, soccer and falconry. Golf is particularly popular, with world-class 18-hole and 9-hole courses available at the famous Doha Golf Club.

Many travelers make day trips into the desert, to the beaches outside Doha and to local forts. One of the main attractions is the Inland Sea, a huge lake jutting into the desert and surrounded by towering sand dunes, which offers opportunities for bathing and scuba diving. Qatar has a very child-friendly environment, with numerous playgrounds and a number of theme parks. Especially popular with children are Palmtree Island in Doha Bay, with its beaches and camel and pony rides, and Aladdin's Kingdom, an entertainment park with many exciting rides, in the West Bay area. There is also a popular zoo around 20 km from Doha along the Salwa Road.

Within Doha there are a number of interesting museums, including the Qatar National Museum, housed in the former Emir's palace; the Weaponry Museum and the Ethnographical Museum. For evening entertainment and socializing, Doha has cinemas and many restaurants offering cuisine from all over the world. To explore the natural environment please visit www.experienceqatar.com

Live musical entertainment in Doha is limited, but there are occasional visits from international artists. Qatari culture itself is rich in music, poetry and dance, and there are many opportunities to attend festivals and formal celebrations. Doha is a shopper's paradise, with many major western retail outlets present, as well as the more traditional souks.