Shaun Myburg

Ask any expatriate why they have moved to Qatar and their answer will most likely be one of two answers — for love, or money.

However, those of us who are lucky enough to stay here for a number of years, will give a very different reason when asked why we stayed. 

Whether we came to Qatar for the love of family, or the love of a significant other, Qatar has a way of making you fall in love with the country and its people.

It’s hard not to get caught up in the pride and patriotism of a country who is forever moving forward. And it’s impossible to not feel a sense of loyalty when the country is criticised from outsiders who have never stepped foot onto the shores of Doha.

For me, an expat (South African to be clear), Qatar has become home. I came here for the exact reasons most would give you. I came here to fight for the woman I love, who is now my fiancé. I came here to make money to provide for our future.

Now two years later, I find myself wanting nothing more than to be part of Qatar’s growth, to help in the small ways that I can. To stand tall with a country that has given me an opportunity to be happy.

From my driver, to my tailor, my grocer and banker, every person in Qatar has played their role in my life. I can only hope I too have added value to theirs in some way.

They are Qatar.

I am Qatar.

We are Qatar.