Qatar is an Arab country located in the small Qatar Peninsular on the north eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. Human habitation in Qatar dates back to over 50,000 thousand years ago. Qatar was a British Protectorate in the early 20th Century. In 1977 Qatar gained independence and developed at an amazing rate to become a high income economy, backed by the world’s third largest reserves of natural oil and gas reserves. In 2013, Qatar had a population of approximately 1.8 million with an expatriate community of 1.5 million. Doha, the capital of Qatar is famed for its futuristic skyscrapers as well as other modernistic buildings inspired by ancient and traditional lslamic designs.
Visitors to Qatar cover a wide spectrum and the demand for up market accommodation is high. Luxury Hotel Doha is a term on many peoples’ minds as they plan to visit the emirate. For those seeking luxury resorts there is an island paradise just 20 minutes by luxury yacht from Doha. This is Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara with world class facilities and a myriad of activities including aqua sports. A private helipad offers the options of exclusive and quick arrivals and departures.
Sports are popular in Qatar and tennis and squash rank at the top of the ladder. Tennis took off the ground with international tournaments by distinguished players and the success of these led to the formation of the Qatar Tennis Federation on the 09 of April 1984 and tennis was introduced to all major sports clubs in the state.
The Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex was inaugurated by H.H. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, The Emir of the State of Qatar on 16 December 1992. This ultra modern complex on Al Majles Al Dafna in Doha Qatar has over 20 courts and is open Sunday – Thursday from 8.a.m. – 5 p.m. and from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. On Friday and Saturday it is open from 6 a.m. – 11 p.m. The initial seating capacity was 4,500 but was increased to 7,000 when the complex was enlarged and renovated in 2008. Corporate Boxes, Lower, Middle and Upper Sectors. A VIP Tent and a public area with food courts and entertainment were also added. The Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex is owned and operated by the Qatar Tennis Federation.
The Complex is the Home Venue of the ATP Tour’s Qatar Exxon MobilEvent and WTA Event Qatar Total Open. In 2006 the Asian Games tennis and squash competitions were held here.
The Qatar Squash Federation oversees the game in the emirate.