Today's episode of QL Flashback Fridays is about Qatar's magnificent transformation from a small fishing community to the richest country in the world!

If you've been living in Doha long enough, you may have witnessed some of the stunning developments yourself, but if not, here's a look at how the city evolved into a modern metropolis. 

With its iconic architecture, striking landscape, and mesmerizing public spaces, it is hard to imagine this nation as a small community of pearl divers, traders, and Bedouin once.

The country’s wealth of natural gas brought it to the pinnacle of wealth among the world’s nations.

Qatar was a British protectorate until 1971, and before that under Ottoman control for nearly half a century.

It has now transformed to become an independent force to be reckoned with in the MENA region.

The country is striving to balance modernization with the preservation of local values and culture. It places paramount importance on preserving the cultural heritage of the country. before

One example of this is the stadiums being readied for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, which tie in elements of Arab heritage beautifully into their design and concept. 

As Qatar diversifies its economy, in various ways, particularly the opening up investment opportunities in real estate, technology, tourism among other areas, there's more to expect in how the country will shape itself in the coming years. 

For now, the country is one of the most sought-after destinations in the world for employment and education and is picking up pace as a delightful tourism spot.

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Timelapse Credits: Michael Shainblum & Richard Bentley