Qatar

Overview

Qatar is a small peninsula on the Gulf whose enormous natural gas reserves have made it one of the world's leading energy exporters and one of the highest-income economies per person. Liquefied natural gas underpins exports, public spending and a sovereign wealth fund with investments across the globe.

Hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup put the country on the world stage, alongside expanding aviation, media and education sectors. Its economy remains closely tied to energy prices, and diversification efforts — tourism, finance, logistics and sport — are part of a national vision to broaden the base.

On the rise

Expanding liquefied natural gas capacity, a growing financial centre and sport and cultural investment give Qatar influence beyond its size — with diversification and global energy transitions shaping the long-term outlook.