By Dipti Nair

Qatar Living sits down with H.E. Ambassador Freischlader to discuss the growing ties between Germany and Qatar, cultural collaborations, and his personal impressions of the country.

What were your expectations of Qatar before you arrived, and how have your impressions changed since being here?

My expectations were quite realistic because this wasn’t my first time in the region. In fact, I stayed in Qatar 34 years ago, back in 1991. I specifically requested this posting, and I was fortunate that the Foreign Office approved it. I already knew that Qatar is a small yet politically significant country in the Gulf region, playing a very important international role.

How large is the German expatriate community in Qatar, and what key sectors do they contribute to?

Since German citizens are not required to register with the Embassy, we can only estimate the number. I would say there are probably a little less than 2,000 Germans living and working here—around 1,800. They are active in various sectors, particularly in hospitality such as hotels and restaurants. Many also work as professors or teachers in universities and schools. Surprisingly, there is also a large number of German or German-educated doctors practicing in Qatar. We once held a special reception for them, and many showed up at the residence.

What services or support does the German Embassy provide to German citizens living in Qatar?

Our consular section mirrors the services that local German authorities provide back home. This includes issuing passports and ID cards, registering births, and name declarations. We also maintain a voluntary registration system for those who want to be informed in case of emergencies or important announcements—such as national elections in Germany. We make sure German citizens living here are aware of their rights and options to vote abroad.

Can you provide insights into the current state of bilateral relations between Germany and Qatar?

Germany and Qatar enjoy strong and multifaceted relations that span political, economic, cultural, and educational sectors—and of course, sports, which is very important in Qatar. One of the cornerstones of our cooperation is energy, a partnership that has lasted over 40 years.

We’ve had numerous high-level visits in both directions. His Highness the Emir has visited Germany every year for the past three years, most recently in October last year. In turn, just last month, our Federal Finance Minister visited Doha with a delegation of business and banking leaders for bilateral talks.

Climate diplomacy is also a significant pillar of our foreign policy, and we are working with great enthusiasm alongside our Qatari partners in this area.

Are there any specific initiatives or programs you’re planning to launch during your tenure to strengthen cultural ties between Germany and Qatar?

Yes, the cultural field is crucial—not just for bilateral ties, but for enhancing mutual understanding.

We actively promote the German language in Qatar. For instance, there are German language classes at the German Language Center at Hamad Bin Khalifa University, and there’s considerable interest in these courses. The German International School in Doha also plays an important role, as its graduates are eligible to attend any university in Germany.

One exciting idea in the pipeline is a Children’s and Youth University project, in collaboration with the German School and two local Qatari schools. The aim is to bring together German and Qatari students to share perspectives and deepen cultural understanding.

What’s one thing about life in Qatar that you find most different from Germany? And what’s something surprisingly similar?

The most noticeable difference is the climate. Qatar experiences six to eight months of intense heat, which we’re not accustomed to in Germany. On the other hand, something surprisingly similar is the passion for sports. People in both countries share a deep enthusiasm for all kinds of sporting activities.

You briefly served as the Chargé d’affaires in Doha back in 1991. Doha has come a long way since then. How do you feel about the changes?

It’s truly hard to describe—tremendous and enormous are the words that come to mind. It’s almost like an entirely different city or country.

Back in 1991, I stayed at the Sheraton Hotel, which already existed, but there was nothing around it. There was no West Bay, no Lusail—none of the new developments we see today. The transformation has been remarkable and speaks to the admirable progress Qatar has made over the years.

If you could take a German car for a drive across Qatar, which one would you choose and where would you go?

I’d definitely choose a German four-wheel drive and take it up north to Al Zubarah. I’ve been there twice already—it’s a fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site. I’d also head south to explore the sand dunes, which offer a stunning landscape. My wife and I visited recently, and we thoroughly enjoyed it.

What’s a fun German cultural tradition you think people in Qatar might enjoy?

One tradition I think would resonate here is the carnival celebrated along the Rhine, especially in my hometown of Mainz. It usually takes place in February and is full of music, costumes, and joy. It’s a big part of life in western Germany, and I’d love to share that experience one day with our Qatari friends.

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