Ambitious and artistic, or paradoxical and obscure – there are many ways to describe Qatar, but if one thing’s for sure, it’s growing at breakneck speed. Jutting out into the Persian Gulf, this small Arab country is fuelled by a massive oil and gas economy, which has led to the development of exuberant towers, hotel resorts, shopping malls and football stadiums in its capital, Doha. You could wander the city centre in awe of these buildings, and drop by the renowned Museum of Islamic Art while you’re at it. Yet, despite blossoming into an economic hub, Qatar is a nation that still cherishes its Arabic traditions. Go shopping in Doha’s lively Souq Waqif, learn about the ancient art of falconry, or watch camels race in the desert-enveloped town of Al Shahaniya. Beyond the skyscraping razzmatazz of Doha, there are miles of glorious, beach-strewn coastline, backed by rolling sand dunes that stretch right across the peninsula. Almost all of Qatar’s accommodation can be found in central Doha, with a range of luxury hotel resorts and aparthotels available. Elsewhere, options are few and far between, though some hotels are strung along the coast.