Return to the Home PageContact The Voice of the MartyrsAbout The Voice of the MartyrsFree Email or Newsletter SubscriptionsAvailable ResourcesWays you can Help the Persecuted ChurchWays you can be Informed About the Persecuted Church
Total Area:
11,437 sq. km

Population:
863,051 (est. July 2005)
Ethnicity:

Arab 40%, Pakistani 18%, Indian 18%, Iranian 10%, Other 14%
Language:
Arabic (official), English commonly used as a second language
Religion:
Muslim 95%
Government Type:
Traditional Monarchy
Capital:
Doha
Population Below Poverty Line:
Not Available

Persecution News
None Currently Available

Ruled by the al-Thani family since the mid-1800s, Qatar gained independence in 1971. For over twenty years was ruled by Emir Khalifa bin Hamad al-Thani who reigned with few checks on his authority and, as a result, crippled the economy by siphoning off revenues from the extensive oil reserves. In 1995 he was overthrown by his son, Hamad who instituted economic and social reforms that transformed the emirate into a country with extensive tourism and a very viable economy. The Emir was also the major financial backing for the founding of the all-news satellite station, Al-Jazeera, which has gained significant international prestige.

The al-Thani family has long embraced the Wahhabi interpretation of Sunni Islam founded in neighboring Saudi Arabia and this has been declared the state religion. Criticism of the Muslim faith or the ruling family is a crime. While Hamad has introduced some freedom for women, they continue to live under harsh restrictions.

The number of Christians in Qatar is estimated at ten percent, primarily foreign workers. Before 1985 there were no known Qatari believers. However, some have become Christians when living abroad and have suffered for their faith upon returning to Qatar.

There are strong civil and religious restrictions on any who are not Muslims. Non-Muslims cannot bring a case to the Sharia courts, which handle most civil cases. Converting Muslims to Christianity is forbidden. Public worship for any religion other than Islam is prohibited, though they are allowed to meet privately. In 2000 and again in 2003 the government allowed the construction of Christian church buildings for foreigners, in order to accommodate the growing number of Westerners working in the country, In the first half of 2003, however, the pastor of one of these churches, as well as a lay-leader for a house church, were deported after living in the country for over twenty years. There was no reason given in either case.

Prayer Requests

  • Pray that the arbitrary harassment of those ministering to Christians in Qatar will stop and that they will be free to continue to minister.
  • Pray for outreach opportunities to the Qatari people.
  • Pray that those Qataris who come to Christ will be free to worship and serve Christ.