Established as the richest country in the world and a major gas and oil producer, Qatar has also become one of the biggest and most promising markets for those seeking for job opportunities. For this same reason, it is not surprising that more of the 80% of its population is made up of expatriate communities who have already chosen this emirate to boost their professional careers. And the reasons are many.
Being an economy of constant growth which aims for an ambitious yet sound development of its infrastructures and industry, there is a high number of well-qualified vacancies in Qatar. Not only business-related jobs such as engineers, sales representatives, marketing agents and accountants are wanted; but also doctors, nurses, chefs and teachers are among the most demanded ones. Most often, these positions are accompanied by relaxed working days, high salaries (at QR16,500 on average), health insurance and, last but not least, no personal taxation.
Although safety tends to be most people’s concern when deciding about the move, the truth is that this Middle-Eastern country is among the safest and most stable of the region, with very low criminal rates. By contrast, it offers excellent living standards with world-class educational and healthcare institutions fueled by major government investments. For the most part, accommodation is spacious and rather new with the most popular options being the so-called villas or compounds where 24-security, swimming pool, gym, cleaner and even cafés, supermarkets or squash courts in the most upmarket ones are found.
Despite its Islamic culture, the welcoming and forward-thinking attitude of this emirate has attracted expatriates from all over the world, including Indian, Lebanese, American, British, French, Spanish and Canadian citizens, among others. This has greatly contributed to create a multicultural environment with an interesting choice of leisure activities, bars and restaurants of all kinds. For those who are wondering, the consumption and purchase of alcohol is permitted but limited to the licensed hotels, bars and stores. Night clubs and music venues have particularly proliferated in Doha in recent years, boosting the nightlife options in the capital. Nonetheless, Qatar economy extends far beyond its oil and gas reserves as well as its world-famous capital.
Qatar, much more than just Doha
Contrary to common belief, Qatar is much more than just Doha. In recent years, and to a great extent fostered by the hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, a number of different urban centres are rapidly developing. These, perfectly connected to the capital, have in turn become the headquarters of many of the big companies settled in the country.
If not already the case, within a few years Qatar is expected to become a global centre for international trade and tourism alike. To do so, as it is constantly claimed by the Qatari Government, they will employ all the available means and resources that are necessary.
Newcomers will soon find themselves shopping in their innumerable ultramodern malls and colourful souqs, exploring its magnificent desert, smoking sheesha and enjoying, among other delicious dishes, the famous sish taouq.
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