This archive report was first published on 29 September 2019.
Published on September 29, 2019, as the Qatar diplomatic crisis entered its third month, the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, remains a ubiquitous figure in public places, government offices, and on personal and public service vehicles in Qatar.
The desire to publicly support and identify with the emir in June 2017, when the crisis began, has led to this widespread display of loyalty. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Egypt, and others severed diplomatic relations with Qatar, banning Qatari airplanes and ships from using their airspace and sea routes, and Saudi Arabia blocking the only land crossing.
Qataris have shown unwavering support for their government, quietly making arrangements to find permanent solutions while enduring the blockade.
Qatar's currency, the Qatari riyal, is strictly regulated by the government to prevent greedy businessmen from taking advantage of tourists. Upon arrival at Prince Hamad International Airport, visitors can easily convert currency, but at a lower rate of Sh23 for every Riyal.
Qatari businesspeople are known for their honesty, often returning extra money handed to them or change. The Media Centre for the 2019 World Athletics Championships, situated just outside the Khalifa International Stadium, provides journalists with real-time race results, enabling them to send stories to their media houses.
Kenyan residents in Qatar have turned out in large numbers to watch athletics races at Khalifa International Stadium, with events like the women's 3000 meters steeplechase, men's 800m races, and women's marathon attracting a high number of Kenyans in Doha.
