View source for Geography of Qatar

{{Short description|none}} <!-- "none" is preferred when the title is sufficiently descriptive; see [[WP:SDNONE]] -->
{{Country geography
|name = Qatar
|map = QatarOMCmap.png
|map size = 250
|continent = [[Asia]]
|region = [[Middle East]]
|coordinates = {{Coord|25.30|N|51.15|E|source:enwiki}}
|area ranking = 164th
|km area = 11,571
|percent land = 100
|percent water = 0
|km coastline = 563
|borders = [[Saudi Arabia]]: {{convert|60|km|mi|0|abbr=on}}
|highest point = [[Qurayn Abu al Bawl]],<br /> {{convert|103|m|ft|0|abbr=on}}
|lowest point = [[Dukhan Sabkha]],<br /> {{convert|-7|m|ft|0|abbr=on}}
|longest river = 
|largest lake = 
|climate = arid; mild, pleasant winters; very hot, humid summers
|terrain = mostly flat and barren desert covered with loose sand and gravel
|natural resources = petroleum, natural gas, fish
|natural hazards = haze, dust storms, sandstorms common
|environmental issues = limited natural freshwater resources are increasing dependence on large-scale desalination facilities
|exclusive economic zone = {{convert|31,590|km2|mi2|0|abbr=on}}}}
[[Image:Qatar 31 January 2003.jpg|thumb|right|Satellite view of Qatar in 2003]]

'''Qatar''' is a [[peninsula]] in the east of [[Arabia]], bordering the [[Persian Gulf]] and [[Saudi Arabia]] in a strategic location near major [[petroleum]] and [[natural gas]] deposits. The [[Qatar|State of Qatar]] occupies {{convert|11,571|km2|abbr=on}} on a peninsula that extends about {{convert|160|km|abbr=on}} north into the Persian Gulf from the Arabian Peninsula.<ref name="countrystudies">{{cite encyclopedia|title=Persian Gulf states: country studies |publisher=[[Federal Research Division]], [[Library of Congress]] |location=Washington, D.C. |url=https://www.loc.gov/item/93046476/ |last=Toth |first=Anthony |date=1994 |editor-last=Metz|editor-first=Helen Chapin |editor-link=Helen Chapin Metz |edition=3rd |pages=162–163 |isbn=0-8444-0793-3 |oclc=29548413 |entry=Qatar: Geography}} {{PD-notice}}</ref>

Varying in width between {{convert|55|and|90|km|abbr=on}}, the land is mainly flat (the highest point is {{convert|103|m|abbr=on}}) and rocky.<ref name="countrystudies" /> Notable features include coastal [[salt pans]], elevated limestone formations (the Dukhan anticline) along the west coast under which lies the [[Dukhan Field|Dukhan oil field]], and massive [[sand dunes]] surrounding [[Khor Al Adaid]], an inlet of the Persian Gulf in the southeast known to local English speakers as the Inland Sea.<ref name="countrystudies" />

==Area and boundaries==
Qatar has one [[Qatar–Saudi Arabia border|land border]]. The country borders [[Saudi Arabia]] to the south. The boundary with Saudi Arabia was settled in 1965 but never demarcated.<ref name="countrystudies" /> This terrestrial sector extends from the head of the [[Gulf of Salwah]] at [[Abu Samra]] to [[Khor Al Adaid]],<ref name="qencyclopedia">{{cite web|url=https://www.encyclopedia.qa/ar/%D8%AA%D8%A7%D8%B1%D9%8A%D8%AE-%D9%82%D8%B7%D8%B1/%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AC%D8%BA%D8%B1%D8%A7%D9%81%D9%8A%D8%A7-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AA%D8%A7%D8%B1%D9%8A%D8%AE%D9%8A%D8%A9/%D8%B7%D8%A8%D9%88%D8%BA%D8%B1%D8%A7%D9%81%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D8%B4%D8%A8%D9%87-%D8%AC%D8%B2%D9%8A%D8%B1%D8%A9-%D9%82%D8%B7%D8%B1|title=طبوغرافية شبه جزيرة قطر|publisher=Qatar Historical Encyclopedia|language=Arabic|date=28 April 2024|accessdate=20 July 2024}}</ref> spanning a linear distance of approximately {{convert|87|km}}.<ref>{{citation |url= https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/saudi-arabia/|title=CIA World Factbook – Saudi Arabia|access-date=20 July 2024}}</ref>

Qatar presents as a peninsula encompassed by the tepid waters of the [[Persian Gulf]] on its eastern and northern flanks. The western margin is delineated by the Gulf of Salwah, a concave formation which effectively severs Qatar's terrestrial connection with the [[Al-Ahsa Oasis|Al-Ahsa]] coast and [[Bahrain]].<ref name="qencyclopedia"/>

Qatar's northwest coast is fewer than {{convert|30|km|abbr=on}} from the main islands of Bahrain,<ref name="countrystudies" /> while the small [[Hawar Islands]] of Bahrain are only {{convert|1.9|km}} off the coast.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Al Sharif|first1=Farah|url=https://dohanews.co/qatar-bahrain-territorial-dispute-erupts-online-as-ownership-claims-resurface-on-twitter/|title=Qatar-Bahrain territorial dispute erupts online as ownership claims resurface on Twitter|publisher=Doha News|date=1 August 2021|accessdate=20 July 2024}}</ref> The largest islet of the Hawar Islands is located {{convert|5|km}} off Qatari mainland.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Wiegand|first1=Krista E.|url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/41342770|title=Bahrain, Qatar, and the Hawar Islands: Resolution of a Gulf Territorial Dispute|publisher=Middle East Institute|journal=Middle East Journal|volume=66|issue=1|year=2012}}</ref> The peninsula's northernmost point is [[Ras Rakan]].<ref>{{cite book|last=Bird|first=Eric|title=Encyclopedia of the World's Coastal Landforms|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Mfo5TPb7SDsC&pg=PA1038|publisher=Springer|year=2010|page=1038|isbn=978-1-4020-8638-0}}</ref>

===Maritime claims===
Qatar's maritime boundaries include a contiguous zone of {{convert|24|nmi|km mi|abbr=on|1|lk=in}}, an [[exclusive economic zone]] of {{convert|31,590|km2|mi2|0|abbr=on}} as determined by bilateral agreements, and {{convert|12|nmi|km mi|1|abbr=on}} of territorial sea. Maritime boundaries were ratified in April 1992 with Decree No. 40.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Bugajski|first1=Dariusz R.|url=https://journals.pan.pl/Content/93397/mainfile.pdf|title=The Persian Gulf in the Light of the Law of the Sea|journal=Prawo Morskie|issue=XXXII|page=32|year=2016|issn=0860-7338}}</ref> The exclusive economic zone was declared in 1974.<ref>{{cite journal|last1=Bugajski|first1=Dariusz R.|url=https://journals.pan.pl/Content/93397/mainfile.pdf|title=The Persian Gulf in the Light of the Law of the Sea|journal=Prawo Morskie|issue=XXXII|page=26|year=2016|issn=0860-7338}}</ref>

Situated on the western shore of the [[Persian Gulf]], the Qatari promontory extends longitudinally into the waters, affording it a strategic position for the interception of rain-bearing winds and the regulation of maritime currents in the south-western basin of the Persian Gulf. The extended coastline facilitates the exploitation of [[pearl]] banks and piscatorial resources while also providing access to subaqueous [[Petroleum reservoir|petroleum deposits]].<ref name="qencyclopedia"/> Aside from hosting large numbers of pearl beds yielding high quality pearls,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://sharinghistory.museumwnf.org/hb_result.php?country=qt&page=1|title=The pearling industry in Qatar|publisher=Museum With No Frontiers|accessdate=20 July 2024}}</ref> Qatari waters also host 48% of the [[coral reef]]s in the Persian Gulf.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://thepeninsulaqatar.com/article/17/10/2022/qatar-home-to-48-of-coral-reefs-in-arabian-gulf|title=Qatar home to 48% of coral reefs in Arabian Gulf|publisher=The Peninsula Qatar|date=17 October 2022|accessdate=21 May 2024}}</ref>

The Qatari coast is further distinguished by its manifold indentations, comprising both convex protrusions of land into the sea, such as [[Ras Laffan]], and concave incursions of water into the terrestrial mass. Moreover, the littoral serves as a natural harbour and transit point for numerous vessels plying the waters of the Persian Gulf.<ref name="qencyclopedia"/>

===Islands===
{{see also|List of islands of Qatar}}
Of the islands belonging to Qatar, [[Halul Island|Halul]] is the most important.<ref name="countrystudies" /> Lying about {{convert|90|km|abbr=on}} east of [[Doha]], it serves as a storage area and loading terminal for oil from the surrounding offshore fields.<ref name="countrystudies" /> [[Hawar Islands|Hawar and the adjacent islands]] immediately off the west coast are the subject of a territorial dispute between Qatar and [[Bahrain]].<ref name="countrystudies"/>

==Climate==
The long summer (June through September) is characterized by intense heat and alternating dryness and humidity, with temperatures exceeding {{convert|40|°C}}.<ref name="countrystudies" /> Temperatures are moderate from November to March,<ref name="countrystudies" /> ranging from as high as {{convert|39|°C}} in April to as low as {{convert|7|°C}} in January.<ref>Casey & Vine (1991), p. 69</ref> Rainfall averages {{convert|100|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} per year, confined to the winter months, and falling in brief storms which are occasionally heavy enough to flood the small ravines and the usually dry wadis.<ref name="countrystudies"/>

Sudden, violent dust storms occasionally descend on the peninsula, blotting out the sun, causing wind damage, and temporarily disrupting transport and other services.<ref name="countrystudies"/>

The scarcity of rainfall and the limited underground water, most of which has such a high mineral content that it is unsuitable for drinking or irrigation, severely restricted the population and the extent of agricultural and industrial development the country could support until desalination projects began.<ref name="countrystudies"/> Although water continues to be provided from underground sources, most is obtained by desalination of seawater.<ref name="countrystudies" />

{{Weather box
|location = Doha (1962–2013, extremes 1962–2013)
|metric first = Yes
|single line = Yes
|Jan record high C = 32.4
|Feb record high C = 36.5
|Mar record high C = 41.5
|Apr record high C = 46.0
|May record high C = 47.7
|Jun record high C = 49.1
|Jul record high C = 50.4
|Aug record high C = 48.6
|Sep record high C = 46.2
|Oct record high C = 43.4
|Nov record high C = 38.0
|Dec record high C = 32.7
|year record high C = 
|Jan high C = 22.0
|Feb high C = 23.4
|Mar high C = 27.3
|Apr high C = 32.5
|May high C = 38.8
|Jun high C = 41.6
|Jul high C = 41.9
|Aug high C = 40.9
|Sep high C = 38.9
|Oct high C = 35.4
|Nov high C = 29.6
|Dec high C = 24.4
|year high C = 
|Jan mean C = 17.8
|Feb mean C = 18.9
|Mar mean C = 22.3
|Apr mean C = 27.1
|May mean C = 32.5
|Jun mean C = 35.1
|Jul mean C = 36.1
|Aug mean C = 35.5
|Sep mean C = 33.3
|Oct mean C = 30.0
|Nov mean C = 25.0
|Dec mean C = 20.0
|year mean C = 
|Jan low C = 13.5
|Feb low C = 14.4
|Mar low C = 17.3
|Apr low C = 21.4
|May low C = 26.1
|Jun low C = 28.5
|Jul low C = 30.2
|Aug low C = 30.0
|Sep low C = 27.7
|Oct low C = 24.6
|Nov low C = 20.4
|Dec low C = 15.6
|year low C = 
|Jan record low C = 3.8
|Feb record low C = 1.5
|Mar record low C = 8.2
|Apr record low C = 10.5
|May record low C = 15.2
|Jun record low C = 21.0
|Jul record low C = 23.5
|Aug record low C = 22.4
|Sep record low C = 20.3
|Oct record low C = 16.6
|Nov record low C = 11.8
|Dec record low C = 6.4
|year record low C = 
|precipitation colour = green
|Jan precipitation mm = 13.2
|Feb precipitation mm = 17.1
|Mar precipitation mm = 16.1
|Apr precipitation mm = 8.7
|May precipitation mm = 3.6
|Jun precipitation mm = 0.0
|Jul precipitation mm = 0.0
|Aug precipitation mm = 0.0
|Sep precipitation mm = 0.0
|Oct precipitation mm = 1.1
|Nov precipitation mm = 3.3
|Dec precipitation mm = 12.1
|year precipitation mm =

|unit precipitation days = 1.0 mm
|Jan precipitation days = 1.7
|Feb precipitation days = 2.1
|Mar precipitation days = 1.8
|Apr precipitation days = 1.4
|May precipitation days = 0.2
|Jun precipitation days = 0.0
|Jul precipitation days = 0.0
|Aug precipitation days = 0.0
|Sep precipitation days = 0.0
|Oct precipitation days = 0.1
|Nov precipitation days = 0.2
|Dec precipitation days = 1.3
|year precipitation days =

|Jan humidity = 74
|Feb humidity = 70
|Mar humidity = 63
|Apr humidity = 53
|May humidity = 44
|Jun humidity = 41
|Jul humidity = 50
|Aug humidity = 58
|Sep humidity = 62
|Oct humidity = 63
|Nov humidity = 66
|Dec humidity = 74
|year humidity =

|Jan sun = 244.9
|Feb sun = 224.0
|Mar sun = 241.8
|Apr sun = 273.0
|May sun = 325.5
|Jun sun = 342.0
|Jul sun = 325.5
|Aug sun = 328.6
|Sep sun = 306.0
|Oct sun = 303.8
|Nov sun = 276.0
|Dec sun = 241.8
|year sun = 
|Jand sun = 7.9
|Febd sun = 8.0
|Mard sun = 7.8
|Aprd sun = 9.1
|Mayd sun = 10.5
|Jund sun = 11.4
|Juld sun = 10.5
|Augd sun = 10.6
|Sepd sun = 10.2
|Octd sun = 9.8
|Novd sun = 9.2
|Decd sun = 7.8
|yeard sun = 
|source 1 = NOAA<ref name= NOAA>{{cite web
| url = ftp://ftp.atdd.noaa.gov/pub/GCOS/WMO-Normals/RA-II/QR/41170.TXT
| title = Doha International Airport Climate Normals 1962-1992
| publisher = [[National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration]]
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171011210321/ftp://ftp.atdd.noaa.gov/pub/GCOS/WMO-Normals/RA-II/QR/41170.TXT
| archive-date = 2017-10-11
| url-status = dead
| access-date = September 29, 2016}}</ref>
|source 2 = Qatar Meteorological Department (Climate Normals 1962–2013)<ref name = DWD>{{cite web
| url = http://www.qweather.gov.qa/ClimateInfo.aspx
| title = Climate Information For Doha
| publisher = Qatar Meteorological Department
| language = en
| access-date = November 27, 2016
| archive-date = November 27, 2016
| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20161127220143/http://www.qweather.gov.qa/ClimateInfo.aspx
}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ogimet.com/cgi-bin/gsynres?ind=41170&ano=2021&mes=3&day=19&hora=0&min=0&ndays=30 |title=41170: Doha International Airport (Qatar) |author=<!--Not stated--> |date= 19 March 2021|website=ogimet.com |publisher=[[OGIMET]] |access-date= 19 March 2021|quote=}}</ref>}}

{|style="text-align:center;line-height:1.2em;margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto" class="wikitable"
|+Sea Climate Data For Doha
!Month
!Jan
!Feb
!Mar
!Apr
!May
!Jun
!Jul
!Aug
!Sep
!Oct
!Nov
!Dec
!style="border-left-width:medium"|Year
|-
!Average sea temperature °C (°F)
| style="{{Weather box/colsea|21.0}}"|21.0<br/>(69.8)
| style="{{Weather box/colsea|19.4}}"|19.4<br/>(66.9)
| style="{{Weather box/colsea|20.9}}"|20.9<br/>(69.6)
| style="{{Weather box/colsea|23.3}}"|23.3<br/>(73.9)
| style="{{Weather box/colsea|27.8}}"|27.8<br/>(82)
| style="{{Weather box/colsea|30.5}}"|30.5<br/>(86.9)
| style="{{Weather box/colsea|32.4}}"|32.4<br/>(90.3)
| style="{{Weather box/colsea|33.6}}"|33.6<br/>(92.5)
| style="{{Weather box/colsea|32.8}}"|32.8<br/>(91)
| style="{{Weather box/colsea|30.8}}"|30.8<br/>(87.4)
| style="{{Weather box/colsea|27.5}}"|27.5<br/>(81.5)
| style="{{Weather box/colsea|23.5}}"|23.5<br/>(74.3)
| style="{{Weather box/colsea|26.9}}"|26.9<br/>(80.5)
|-
!Colspan=14 style="background:#ffffff;font-weight:normal;font-size:100%;"|Source:<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://www.seatemperature.org/middle-east/qatar/doha-march.htm |title = Doha Sea Temperature |website=seatemperature.org|access-date=28 May 2022}}</ref>
|}

==Topography and natural regions==
[[Image:Qatar Topography.png|thumb|Topography of Qatar]]
The peninsula of Qatar is low-lying. Its shape is the surface expression of the [[Anticline|anticlinal]] Qatar Arch,<ref>{{cite journal|url=http://www.qscience.com/doi/pdf/10.5339/qfarf.2012.EEP4|title=What's up with Qatar? How eustasy and neotectonics influenced the late Pleistocene and Holocene sea-level history of Qatar|publisher=ExxonMobil Research Qatar |author=Jeremy Jameson |author2=Christian Strohmenger |journal=Qatar Foundation Annual Research Forum Proceedings|year=2012|issue=2012|pages=EEP4|doi=10.5339/qfarf.2012.EEP4|access-date=17 July 2015|url-access=subscription}}</ref> formed during the [[Precambrian]] Amar Collision about {{Ma|640|620}}.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Hosani |first=Khalid Al |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7KZ4ecpMp_sC&pg=PA296 |title=Lithosphere Dynamics and Sedimentary Basins: The Arabian Plate and Analogues |last2=Roure |first2=Francois |last3=ELLISON |first3=Richard |last4=LOKIER |first4=Stephen |date=2012-09-14 |publisher=Springer Science & Business Media |isbn=978-3-642-29278-1 |language=en}}</ref> It is enveloped by loose sand and pebbles broken off the outcropping [[limestone]]. Smooth plains covered by fine-grained dust are found in the east, while the south and south-west portions of the peninsula mainly comprise [[Dune|sand dune]]s and [[Salt pan (geology)|salt flat]]s (locally known as [[sabkha]]s), particularly near [[Mesaieed]] and [[Khor Al Adaid]].<ref name="nayeem1">{{cite book|last=Abdul Nayeem|first=Muhammad|title=Qatar Prehistory and Protohistory from the Most Ancient Times (Ca. 1,000,000 to End of B.C. Era)|publisher=Hyderabad Publishers|page=2|year=1998|isbn=978-81-85492-04-9}}</ref> Sakbahs can also be found in western Qatar, near [[Dukhan]] and [[Sawda Natheel]].<ref name="abulali"/> Hill ranges (jebels) can be found in western Qatar near Dukhan and at [[Fuwayrit#Jebel Fuwayrit|Jebel Fuwayrit]] on the northeast coast.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mme.gov.qa/cui/view.dox?id=954&contentID=1409&siteID=2|title=About Qatar|publisher=Ministry of Municipality and Environment|access-date=23 February 2019|archive-date=14 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190214002733/http://www.mme.gov.qa/cui/view.dox?id=954&contentID=1409&siteID=2|url-status=dead}}</ref> For purposes of categorization, the country is divided into five principal regions: coastal plain, interior plain, central belt, Dukhan region, and southern desert.<ref name="qencyclopedia"/>

===Coastal plain===
The littoral of Qatar, extending some {{convert|650|km}} from [[Abu Samra]] to [[Khor Al Adaid]] via [[Ar Ru'ays]], is [[Emergent coastline|emergent]] and characterized by recent geological formations. The western coast from Abu Samra to Ras Dukhan is relatively straight, while northward to Ar Ru'ays is indented with circular and oblong water incursions. The eastern coast is broader, with elevations increasing eastward from Dohah Al Husain.<ref name="qencyclopedia"/> Many flat, low-lying offshore islands are located near the coast and are accompanied by [[coral reefs]]. As a result of salt water coming into contact with the low-lying land, many [[Salt pan (geology)|salt flats]] (known locally as [[sabkha]]s) have formed near the coast.<ref name="nayeem1"/>

===Interior plain===
[[File:Qatar, Simaisma (12), desert.jpg|thumb|Desert of [[Simaisma]], located in the southern section of the interior plain region]]
Commencing at the inland margins of the coastal strip, this region is demarcated in the north by the [[Al Mafjar]]-[[Abu Dhalouf]] line. It broadens considerably southward, with its northern sector spanning {{convert|18.5|km}} between [[Al-ʽAdhbah]] and [[Ar Rakiyat]], while its southern base between [[Umm Al Qahab]] and [[Al Suwaihliya]] measures {{convert|46.5|km}}. The surface is studded with eleven [[Endorheic basin|closed basin]]s. The northern sector is relatively flat, while the central sector, between [[Fuwayrit]] and [[Rawdat Al Faras]], exhibits more complex topography with elevations ranging from {{convert|11|m}} to {{convert|21|m}}.<ref name="qencyclopedia"/>

===Central belt=== 
This zone aligns with Qatar's primary north-south oriented dome. It is distinguished by its topographical diversity, with elevations ranging from {{convert|31|m}} to {{convert|49|m}} above sea level. The surface is uneven, with circular or rectangular hills along the western borders reaching heights of {{convert|41|m}} to {{convert|49|m}}. Fourteen closed basins are scattered throughout, smaller in the east within the Rus Formation and larger in the west within the Dammam Formation. The highest points are found in the hills southeast of [[Al Jemailiya]] and to the west of the Al Jemailiya-Ash-Shahaniyah road.<ref name="qencyclopedia"/>

===Dukhan region=== 
[[File:Rawdat Jarrah separating Dukhan Sabkha from Bay of Zekreet.jpg|thumb|Landscape near the [[Dukhan Sabkha]]]]
Occupying the greater part of Qatar's western flank, this area extends {{convert|87|km}} from [[Ras Abrouq]] in the north to An Nakhsh in the south. It is characterized by complex structural units, with elevations reaching {{convert|92|m}} at Khashm An-Nakhsh and depressions as low as {{convert|-5|m}} below sea level in the [[Dukhan Sabkha]].<ref name="qencyclopedia"/> This sabkha, the largest inland salt flat in the [[Persian Gulf]], runs for approximately {{convert|20|km}}, occupies an area of {{convert|73|km2|abbr=on}},<ref>{{cite journal|url=https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/full/10.1098/rsta.2010.0101|title=Raman spectroscopy of the Dukhan sabkha: identification of geological and biogeological molecules in an extreme environment|author1=Howell G. M. Edwards |author2=Fadhil Sadooni |author3=Petr Vítek |author4=Jan Jehlička |journal=Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences|volume=368|publisher=Royal Society Publishing|date=13 July 2010|issue=1922|pages=3099–3107|doi=10.1098/rsta.2010.0101|pmid=20529947|bibcode=2010RSPTA.368.3099E |s2cid=7262453|access-date=23 February 2019|doi-access=free|hdl=10576/47356|hdl-access=free}}</ref> and accommodates the lowest point of Qatar at {{convert|-6|m}} below sea level.<ref name="abulali">{{cite journal|url=https://eurekamag.com/pdf/012/012125301.pdf|title=Geologic Evolution of the Dukhan salt flats in Western Qatar Peninsula, Arabian Gulf|last1=Sadiq|first1=Abdulali M.|journal=Qatar University Science Journal|issue=23|pages=41–58|year=2003|access-date=23 February 2019}}</ref> [[Jebel Nakhsh]], a notable [[Ridge|mountain ridge]] south of Dukhan, contains substantial deposits of [[gypsum]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.academia.edu/19304718|title=A Historical Account of the Stratigraphy of Qatar, Middle-East (1816 to 2015) |website=Academia |author=Jacques Leblanc|page=73|date=December 2015|access-date=23 February 2019}}</ref>

===Southern desert=== 
[[File:Dunes at Khawr al Udayd in 2004.jpg|thumb|Sand dunes at [[Khor Al Adaid]]]]
This region occupies 34.7% of Qatar's total area, south of Doha's latitude. It bears topographical similitude to the desert areas of [[Abu Dhabi]], [[Saudi Arabia]], and [[Bahrain]], with undulating sand dunes interspersed with rocky [[hamada]] surfaces.<ref name="qencyclopedia"/> It is divided into four sub-regions:
#Al Urayq: A triangular area in the extreme west, with its apex at Abu Samra. Its northern side aligns with the southern extremity of the Doha-Abu Samra road, and its southern side follows the border line from Abu Samra towards the southeast.<ref name="qencyclopedia"/>
#Miocene-Tiwar: Characterized by isolated hills amidst a rocky plain. The hills reach a maximum of {{convert|103|m}} and include Qatar's highest point, [[Qurayn Abu al Bawl]]. This sub-region is concentrated in the southwestern part of the Qatar Peninsula, including areas like [[Mukaynis]], [[Al Kharrara]], and [[Wadi Jallal]].<ref name="qencyclopedia"/>
#Rocky surfaces: Consisting of expanses of exposed bedrock, often weathered into flat, stony plains known as desert pavements. The surface may be covered by a mosaic of closely packed pebbles and rock fragments, or in some places by a thin layer of indurated mineral deposits forming a hard crust. This sub-region is divided into two units: one shaped like a trapezoid bounded by the water pipeline passing through [[Abu Nakhla]] to Mesaieed, and another extending from Umm Jawlaq southeastward through Al Khubayb, Al Fulayhah, and Umm Al Hayran to Khor Al Adaid.<ref name="qencyclopedia"/>
#Sand dunes: Occupying 1.6% of Qatar's area, with dunes reaching heights of {{convert|38|m}} to {{convert|67|m}}. Interspersed among the dunes are numerous closed basins with floors varying in elevation from {{convert|19|m}} to {{convert|34|m}} metres above sea level, resulting in an undulating topography. The northern boundary of this sub-region aligns with the latitude of Umm Owaina.<ref name="qencyclopedia"/>

==Landforms==
[[File:Fossilized dugong bones in sabkha in southwest Qatar.jpg|thumb|Coastal [[sabkha]] in southwest Qatar]]
===Sakbhas===
The peninsula is notable for its [[sabkha]]s, or salt flats, of which the two distinct varieties are coastal and inland. The coastal sabkhas, more prevalent on the eastern seaboard, encompass an area of approximately {{convert|75|km2|abbr=on}}. These coastal formations rarely exceed an elevation of {{convert|1|m}} to {{convert|2|m}} metres above sea level, with some portions lying below the waterline. Consequently, during exceptionally high tides, often exacerbated by strong easterly winds, seawater may inundate these low-lying areas.<ref name="sheeb29"/>

Inland sabkhas, while less common, are of significant geological interest. A prominent example, [[Dukhan Sabkha]], lies 3 kilometres east of Jebel Dukhan and south of the [[Bay of Zekreet]]. This [[Depression (geology)|depression]], covering {{convert|73|km2|abbr=on}}, is largely situated below sea level and contains the lowest point in Qatar at {{convert|-6|m}} below the sea's surface.<ref>{{cite journal|url=https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/full/10.1098/rsta.2010.0101|title=Raman spectroscopy of the Dukhan sabkha: identification of geological and biogeological molecules in an extreme environment|author1=Howell G. M. Edwards |author2=Fadhil Sadooni |author3=Petr Vítek |author4=Jan Jehlička |journal=Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society A: Mathematical, Physical and Engineering Sciences|volume=368|publisher=Royal Society Publishing|date=13 July 2010|issue=1922 |pages=3099–3107 |doi=10.1098/rsta.2010.0101 |pmid=20529947 |bibcode=2010RSPTA.368.3099E |s2cid=7262453 |access-date=23 February 2019|doi-access=free |hdl=10576/47356 |hdl-access=free }}</ref> It stretches 24 kilometres from north to south and {{convert|6|km}} from east to west.<ref name="sheeb29">{{cite thesis|last1=Alsheeb|first1=Ali I. M.|url=https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa43167/Download/0043167-02082018162551.pdf|title=Coastal geomorphology of the Qatar Peninsula|year=1988|publisher=Swansea University|pages=29–30|type=Thesis}}</ref> A second notable inland sabkha complex straddles the borders of Qatar, [[Saudi Arabia]], and the [[United Arab Emirates]]. This formation comprises three discrete areas: [[Sawda Natheel]] to the south, Jawa Salama to the west, and Al Khufus to the east. These sabkhas, mostly subsea in elevation, collectively span an area of {{convert|25|km2|abbr=on}}.<ref name="sheeb29"/>

===Depressions===
[[File:A depression (rawda) near Jebel Jassasiya in northern Qatar.jpg|thumb|A [[Depression (geology)|rawda]] near [[Jebel Jassasiya]] in northern Qatar]]
The surface of the Qatar Peninsula is punctuated by numerous small [[Depression (geology)|depression]]s, referred to as ''rawda'' or the plural ''riyadh''. These formations present as enclosed basins, save for those in the south-central region which may be open on one or more sides. The morphology of these depressions is diverse, ranging from circular to elongated forms, with some exhibiting irregular platforms. The scale of these depressions also varies widely. The most extensive, such as the Almajdah Depression, stretch for several kilometres, while the smallest span mere tens of metres. Their formation is primarily attributed to the dissolution of surface limestone by [[Surface runoff|rainwater runoff]], a process that has been active across much of the peninsula.<ref name="sheeb30">{{cite thesis|last1=Alsheeb|first1=Ali I. M.|url=https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa43167/Download/0043167-02082018162551.pdf|title=Coastal geomorphology of the Qatar Peninsula|year=1988|publisher=Swansea University|page=30|type=Thesis}}</ref>

===Valleys===
Dry valleys, known as [[wadi]]s, are featured most prominently in Qatar's northern region and the vicinity of Jebel Dukhan. They are characterised by their internal drainage systems, which terminate in shallow depressions rarely exceeding 2 to 3 metres in depth. While they may extend for several kilometres in length, they maintain a remarkably narrow profile, with a width invariably less than 100 metres.<ref name="sheeb30"/>

===Hills===
[[File:Qatar, Zekreet (Bir Zekrit)(8), desert.jpg|thumb|Flat-topped hills in the [[Zekreet Peninsula]]]]
The peninsula features several low hills scattered throughout its western and southern regions. Notable among these is Jebel Dukhan, a series of convex hillocks extending {{convert|80|km}} north-south along the west coast. The peninsula's terrain also features distinctive flat-topped hills, formed by horizontal strata capped with relatively hard rock. These formations exhibit steep, often concave or stepped slopes, shaped by varying degrees of rock resistance.<ref name="sheeb32">{{cite thesis|last1=Alsheeb|first1=Ali I. M.|url=https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa43167/Download/0043167-02082018162551.pdf|title=Coastal geomorphology of the Qatar Peninsula|year=1988|publisher=Swansea University|page=32|type=Thesis}}</ref>

Topographical features range from small, conical hills—where the resistant rock cap has eroded—to more extensive mesa-like formations. Elevation varies considerably; in the [[Zekreet Peninsula]] and near [[Al Khor (city)|Al Khor]], the hills are {{convert|10|m}} to {{convert|15|m}} above sea level. The southern hills are much taller, with Qatar's highest point, [[Qurayn Abu al Bawl]] (also known as Tuwayyir Al Hamir) being over {{convert|100|m}} above sea level.<ref name="sheeb32"/>

==Wildlife==
{{Main|Wildlife of Qatar}}
===Flora===
[[File:Palm tree cluster near Umm Bab beach.jpg|thumb|Wild [[date palm]]s growing near [[Umm Bab]] in western Qatar]]
{{Main|Flora of Qatar}}
Although most of the country consists of [[sand]] [[desert]]s, a small part of the country houses different [[vegetation]] zones, where trees, reeds and shrubs like [[tamarind]], [[phragmites]], and [[Mace (spice)|mace]] can grow. These regions are mostly to the east, near the coast. The inherent limiting factor for vegetation growth is water availability. Certain geographical features partially alleviate this [[water scarcity]], such as [[Depression (geology)|rawda]]s, which are large depressions found on the soil surface and which help recharge the aquifers.<ref name="macumber223">{{cite conference|last1=Macumber|first1=Phillip G.|url=https://www.academia.edu/26738311|title=Water Heritage in Qatar|book-title=Cultural Heritages of Water: Thematic Study on The Cultural Heritages of Water in the Middle East and Maghreb|conference=UNESCO World Heritage Convention|publisher=UNESCO|website=academia.edu|page=223|year=2015|access-date=21 February 2019}}</ref> As these sites constitute the most easily obtainable sources of shallow groundwater, they are also among the areas most abundant in wild vegetation.<ref name="macumber226">{{cite conference|last1=Macumber|first1=Phillip G.|url=https://www.academia.edu/26738311|title=Water Heritage in Qatar|book-title=Cultural Heritages of Water: Thematic Study on The Cultural Heritages of Water in the Middle East and Maghreb|conference=UNESCO World Heritage Convention|publisher=UNESCO|website=academia.edu|page=226|year=2015|access-date=21 February 2019}}</ref>

In the south, where groundwater is exceedingly scarce, vegetation can found growing in [[wadi]]s (dry river valleys) fed by run-off from nearby hills and in rawdas.<ref name="macumber227">{{cite conference|last1=Macumber|first1=Phillip G.|url=https://www.academia.edu/26738311|title=Water Heritage in Qatar|book-title=Cultural Heritages of Water: Thematic Study on The Cultural Heritages of Water in the Middle East and Maghreb|conference=UNESCO World Heritage Convention|publisher=UNESCO|website=academia.edu|page=227|year=2015|access-date=21 February 2019}}</ref> [[Sabkha]]s are another habitat known to contain various plant species. Vegetation in sabkhas is closely tied to soil salinity and moisture availability. Inland sabkhas are typically sparsely vegetated due to extreme salinity and aridity. Species that persist under these conditions include ''[[Zygophyllum qatarense]]'', ''Anabasis setifera'', which occurs along sabkha margins, and the halophytic grass [[Aeluropus lagopoides]]. By contrast, coastal sabkhas situated beyond mangrove zones are more frequently vegetated, often supporting dense stands of salt-tolerant flora. Typical genera include [[Arthrocnemum]], [[Halocnemum]], [[Halopeplis]], and [[Limonium]]. Halopeplis and Limonium are commonly found on slightly raised, drier saline land, whereas Arthrocnemum and Halocnemum are more abundant in low-lying, moisture-retaining areas.<ref name="haplophytessabkha">{{cite book|last1=Abdel Bari|first1=Ekhlas M.M.|last2=Yasseen|first2=Bassam Taha|last3=Al-Thani|first3=Roda Fahad|url=https://www.qu.edu.qa/SiteImages/static_file/qu/research/ESC/Books/99921-52-98-2.pdf|publisher=Environmental Studies Center of Qatar University|title=Halophytes in the State of Qatar|year=2007|pages=45–50}}</ref>

===Fauna===
[[File:A mountain goat at Haloul Island.jpg|thumb|260px|A mountain goat at [[Halul Island]]]]
{{Main|Fauna of Qatar}}
There are 21 species of mammals that have been recorded in Qatar.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.enature.qa/kingdom/mammals/|title=Mammals database|publisher=Qatar e-nature|access-date=21 February 2019}}</ref> Larger terrestrial mammals such as the [[Arabian oryx]] and [[Arabian gazelle]] are protected animals and are held in nature reserves.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Casey|first1=Paula|last2=Vine|first2=Peter|title=The heritage of Qatar|url=https://archive.org/details/heritageofqatar00vinerich|url-access=registration|publisher=Immel Publishing|year=1992|pages=[https://archive.org/details/heritageofqatar00vinerich/page/103 103]|isbn=978-0-907151-50-0 }}</ref> The Arabian gazelle is the only native gazelle species to Qatar and is locally referred to as 'rheem'.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://awwp.alwabra.com/?p=1211|title=Arabian Goitered Gazelle (Reem)|publisher=Al Waabra Wildlife Preservation|access-date=21 February 2019}}</ref> 

Qatar's territorial waters in the [[Persian Gulf]] are rich in marine life. [[Sea turtle]]s nest en masse on the coastline from [[Fuwayrit]] to [[Ras Laffan]]. The Ministry of Environment (MME) carries out routine patrols of nesting areas to ensure their conservation.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/276027234|title=Qatar Turtle Management Project: Inception report|website=researchgate.net|last1=Rees|first1=Alan F.|last2=Zogaris|first2=Stamatis|last3=Papathanasopoulou|first3=Nancy|last4=Vidalis|first4=Aris|last5=Alhafez|first5=Ali|publisher=Ministry of Environment (Qatar)|date=April 2013|access-date=21 February 2019}}</ref> [[Dugong]]s are known to congregate off the country's coasts. In the course of a study being carried out in 1986 and 1999 on the [[Persian Gulf]], the largest-ever group sightings were made of more than 600 individuals to the west of Qatar.<ref name="sillitoe">{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=vR4fAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA280|title=Sustainable Development: An Appraisal from the Gulf Region|author=Paul Sillitoe|publisher=Berghahn Books|page=280|date=1 August 2014|isbn=978-1-78238-372-7}}</ref>

==Geology and mineral deposits==
[[File:Nakhsh mountain in Qatar.jpg|thumb|Fenced-off area of [[Jebel Nakhsh]] (Nakhsh Mountain)]]
[[File:Hillock at northern end of Al Khor Island.jpg|thumb|Limestone hillock on northern end of [[Al Khor Island]]]]
{| class="wikitable sortable"
! Era<ref>Casey & Vine (1991), p. 73</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Al-Kubaisi|first=Mohammed Ali M.|title=Industrial development in Qatar: a geographical assessment|url=http://etheses.dur.ac.uk/7144/1/7144_4326.PDF?UkUDh:CyT|publisher=Durham E-Theses, Durham University|year=1984|page=12}}</ref>
! Period
! Formation
! Member
! Mineral deposits and resources
|-
| rowspan="2"|[[Paleozoic]] || [[Cambrian]] || Hormuz Formation || [[Dolomite (rock)|Dolomite]], [[sandstone]] || [[Hematite]], [[carbonate]]s, [[asbestos]]
|- 
| [[Permian]] <br /> [[Carboniferous]] || Khuff Formation || || [[Petroleum]]
|-
| rowspan="2"|[[Mesozoic]] || [[Jurassic]] || Uwainat Limestone Formation, Arab Formation || [[Dolomite (rock)|Dolomite]], [[limestone]], [[evaporite]], [[shale]] || [[Petroleum]]
|- 
| [[Cretaceous]] || Shuaiba Formation || [[Marl]]stone, [[limestone]], [[shale]] || [[Petroleum]]
|-
| rowspan="7"|[[Cenozoic]] || [[Paleocene]] || Umm Er Radhuma Formation || colspan="2"|
|- 
| rowspan="2"|[[Eocene|Lower Eocene]] || Rus Formation || [[Chalk]] || [[Celestine (mineral)|Celestine]], [[gypsum]]
|-
| Lower Dammam Formation || Dukhan limestone, Midra shale, Rudjm Aid limestone || [[Palygorskite]], [[pyrite]]
|- 
| [[Eocene|Middle Eocene]] || Upper Dammam Formation || Umm Bab chalk, Simaisma dolomites || [[Dolomite (rock)|Dolomite]], [[limestone]]
|-
| [[Miocene]] || Upper and Lower Dam Formation || [[Clay]], [[limestone]], [[gypsum]] || [[Clay]], [[limestone]], [[Celestine (mineral)|celestine]]
|- 
| [[Pliocene]] || Hofuf Formation || Sandy clay, [[sandstone]] || [[Sand]], [[gravel]]
|-
| [[Pleistocene]] || || [[wikt:miliolite|Miliolite]] limestone || [[Limestone]]
|}

Most  of Qatar's surface lies on [[Cenozoic]] [[stratum|strata]]. These strata have an abundance of mineral resources, most of which have not yet been exploited, such as [[limestone]] and [[clay]].<ref>{{cite book|last=Al-Kubaisi|first=Mohammed Ali M.|title=Industrial development in Qatar: a geographical assessment|url=http://etheses.dur.ac.uk/7144/1/7144_4326.PDF?UkUDh:CyT|publisher=Durham E-Theses, Durham University|year=1984|pages=10–11}}</ref> The Upper Dammam Formation in the [[Eocene|Middle Eocene]] period is the most predominant surface layer. It is constituted by [[limestone]] and [[Dolomite (rock)|Dolomite]].<ref>{{cite journal|last=Al-Saad|first=Hamad|url=https://www.researchgate.net/publication/222367100|title=Lithostratigraphy of the Middle Eocene Dammam Formation in Qatar, Arabian Gulf: effects of sea-level fluctuations along a tidal environment|journal=Journal of Asian Earth Sciences|year=2015|page=Abstract|access-date=27 July 2015|doi=10.1016/j.jseaes.2004.07.009|volume=25|issue=5}}</ref> The northern zone of Qatar, which comprises the most significant source of fresh groundwater in the peninsula, primarily draws its water from the Umm Err Radhuma Formation and Rus Formation dating to the [[Paleocene]] and [[Eocene|Lower Eocene]] periods, respectively.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://waterinventory.org/groundwater/umm-er-radhuma-dammam-aquifer-system-centre|title=Umm er Radhuma-Dammam Aquifer System (Centre)|publisher=Inventory of Shared Water Resources in Western Asia|access-date=27 July 2015}}</ref> The [[Mesozoic]] strata are the most important layers as they contain [[petroleum]]. The first substantial deposit of crude oil was discovered in 1940 in the [[Jurassic]] period Arab Formation.<ref>{{cite book|last=Al-Kubaisi|first=Mohammed Ali M.|title=Industrial development in Qatar: a geographical assessment|url=http://etheses.dur.ac.uk/7144/1/7144_4326.PDF?UkUDh:CyT|publisher=Durham E-Theses, Durham University|year=1984|page=11}}</ref>

==Resources and land use==
{{main|Agriculture in Qatar}}
[[File:Water Stress, Top Countries (2020).svg|thumb|Qatar is the fifth most water stressed country in the world.]]
Based on 2011 estimates, 5.6% of the land is agricultural. Arable land comprises 1.1%, permanent crops 0.2% and permanent pasture 4.6%.{{Fix|text=Doesn't add to 5.6%.}} 94.4% of the land was used for other uses.<ref name="factbook">{{cite web|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/qatar/|title=Geography|publisher=CIA World Factbook|access-date=17 July 2015}} {{CIA World Factbook}}</ref> In 2003, {{convert|129.4|km2|abbr=on}} of land was irrigated.<ref name="factbook" />

Severe conditions, such as extremely high temperatures and lack of water and fertile soil, hinder increased [[agricultural production]].<ref name="countrystudies" /> [[Orthent]]s, the predominant soil type in the peninsula, accounting for approximately 1,020,000 ha, are unfavorable for crop cultivation because of their extreme shallowness.<ref name="kubaisi">{{cite book|last=Al-Kubaisi|first=Mohammed Ali M.|title=Industrial development in Qatar: a geographical assessment|url=http://etheses.dur.ac.uk/7144/1/7144_4326.PDF?UkUDh:CyT|publisher=Durham E-Theses, Durham University|year=1984|page=15}}</ref> The limited [[groundwater]] that permits agriculture in some areas is being depleted so rapidly that [[Seawater|saltwater]] is encroaching and making the soil inhospitable to all but the most salt-resistant crops.<ref name="countrystudies"/>

==Political and human geography==
[[Image:Qatar sandstorm.JPG|thumb|right|240px|A massive [[sandstorm]] sweeping over the Persian Gulf state of Qatar as it races southward toward southeastern Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates on February 15, 2004]]
The capital, [[Doha]], is located on the central east coast on a sweeping (if shallow) harbor.<ref name="countrystudies" /> Other ports include [[Umm Said]], [[Al Khor|Al Khawr]], and [[Al Wakrah]]. Only Doha and Umm Said are capable of handling commercial shipping, although a large port and a terminal for loading natural gas are planned at [[Ras Laffan Industrial City]], north of Al Khawr.<ref name="countrystudies" /> Coral reefs and shallow coastal waters make navigation difficult in areas where channels have not been dredged.<ref name="countrystudies"/>

Doha is the capital of the country and the major administrative, commercial, and population center.<ref name="countrystudies" /> In 1993 it was linked to other towns and development sites by a system of about {{convert|1,000|km|abbr=on}} of paved roads.<ref name="countrystudies" /> [[Doha International Airport|Doha's international airport]] has an approximately {{convert|4,500|m|abbr=on|adj=on}} main runway, capable of receiving all kinds of aircraft.<ref name="countrystudies"/>

Historically, settlement distribution in Qatar has mainly been dictated by the presence of obtainable fresh groundwater.<ref name="macumber223"/> [[Depression (geology)|Rawda]]s, which are depressions with shallow groundwater, have typically been the most popular sites of settlement throughout the peninsula.<ref name="macumber226"/> In Qatar's south, where groundwater is exceedingly difficult to obtain, settlement formation was mostly limited to [[wadi]]s (dry river valleys) fed by run-off from nearby hills and rawdas.<ref name="macumber223"/>

==Environmental agreements==
Qatar is currently party to the following international environmental agreements:<ref name="factbook"/>
*[[Biodiversity]]
*[[United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change|Climate Change]]
*[[Desertification]]
*[[Hazardous Wastes]]
*[[Law of the Sea]]
*[[Ozone Layer Protection]]

==References==
{{reflist}}

==Bibliography==
*{{cite book|ref=Casey & Vine|last1=Casey|first1=Paula|last2=Vine|first2=Peter|title=The heritage of Qatar|publisher=Immel Publishing|year=1991|edition=print|isbn=978-0-907151-50-0|url-access=registration|url=https://archive.org/details/heritageofqatar00vinerich}}

==External links==
{{commonscat|Geography of Qatar}}
{{commonscat|Geology of Qatar}}
*{{WWF ecoregion|name=East of Qatar|id=pa1323}}

{{Qatar topics}}
{{Asia in topic|Geography of}}
{{Asia topic|Climate of}}

[[Category:Geography of Qatar| ]]