Modern or traditional?

Qatar is both modern and traditional. You can drive past old Souks (traditional markets) and in the next minute, be driving along spanking modern skyscrapers.

You can buy local Middle Eastern products in the local Souks and the latest New York fashion in any of the large modern shopping malls. Arabian gentlemen in this country have a choice of modern Western clothes or traditional Arabic clothes; most choose to go traditional. Local and other Arabian ladies are dressed in black Abayas but they do not need to mask their face.

Tourists, expatriates and workers from other countries do not face any kind of clothing restrictions. However, ladies are expected not to wear spaghetti strap tops nor mini-skirts in public.

The Qataris are proud of their tradition and culture. There are many grand museums, theaters, art-houses and parks that collect or showcase local culture and tradition.

At the same time, they are also proud of building towering skyscrapers that zig-zag in mid-air.

From Al Corniche, Doha

Traditional dhows (fishing boats) with the modern Doha skyline in the background