Qatar – Lots of Sand + Gas and Oil (2)

No grass growing under our feet. . .neither literally (sand everywhere) or figuratively. Yesterday started at 8:00 a.m. and ended when I returned to my room at 11:00 p.m. As you read through the first paragraphs, be patient as I will get to the fun stuff.

Our day started with a meeting at the Ministry of Defense where we were briefed by the Director of the International Forces, Khalifa Ahmed Al Ammari. We learned that the largest base in the Middle East where American forces are stationed is in Qatar.

Then it was on to Qatar Petroleum, which might now be a bit of a misnomer as they primarily produce liquid national gas (LNG), currently being the world’s largest LNG exporter. What is perhaps most interesting is that they know their supplies will run out, so, they are looking towards developing a more “knowledge-based economy.” In the meanwhile, the money flows freely.

On to the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labor and Social Affairs. This ministry is important as more than 80% of Qatar’s population is not Qatari. It is composed of lots of nationalities who make up the work force, of which 85% is blue collar. Every person serving us tea at every meeting was not Qatari with the majority being from Asia. Again, I will spare you the details.

Eating lunch on the bus, we drove to the Al-Udeid Air Base, located about 45 minutes south of Doha. Of course, there was confusion about our visit, so, we had a long wait (perfect time for a nap) before we had a great tour of the base by an American Captain. Although the base is the home of the U.S. Central Command, the base is owned by the Qataris, so, the Americans, British, Australians and a few other groups are all guests. Each group has their own separate section with housing, equipment and aircraft, but, anyone entering the base must be cleared by the Qataris. We were probably told a few things we should not have been, so, I won’t share any more about the visit.

Back to Doha, and, the fun begins. First it was to the Katara Cultural Village where the opera house and theatre are located in a beautiful setting with restaurants. Now you are probably wondering why I included the following picture. Although the glass sculpture is very pretty, what I want noticed are the decorative rectangle grates interspersed among the bricks. Are you ready for this? That is where outdoor air conditioning is provided! It was on a “low setting” as it was only hot, not miserable. In the summer the settings are on high to provide maximum cool air. Outdoor air conditioning, and, I thought they were joking!

We were on our way to the sand soccer games but got waylaid as we had the opportunity to stop and see the falcons. They are truly beautiful birds.

Then we went to the “beach” soccer match held on sand. We were driven via carts straight to the stand, escorted to seats and provided cold water, choice of still or sparkling. The match ended, and, it was on to the basketball games, 4 on 4 with the ladies playing, France versus Mali with France winning. This time they set up seats front and center and brought us juice and water. . .nothing too good for us! The games were quick.

Finally it was time for dinner. We went to a great seafood restaurant in the village area where we all selected the fresh fish we wanted. I had a local mild white fish, which was delicious.

Now that was a full day!