Contemporary National Identity in Qatar: Strong Foundations and Growing Challenges

Abstract

This chapter, following a brief theoretical discussion on national identity in general, and in the Gulf in particular, contextualizes recent discussions on national identity in Qatar. More specifically, the chapter presents some of the government policies in the post-1995 period and their evolution up until present-day, with the Gulf diplomatic crisis and the preparations for the hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup providing the context. Having identified the key challenges to the national identity in Qatar, the chapter also identifies major policy areas which require government attention as population policy, education, culture, housing and legislation and offers suggestions for decision and policymakers for consideration. Building on the results of the recent surveys on national identity in Qatar and the Gulf crisis, the chapter argues that given strong foundations of the Qatari national identity and high levels of popular support it enjoys, the Qatari government is well placed to make necessary reforms that would further strengthen Qatari national identity that capable of withstanding future challenges.