QaTarheel: Exploring Qatar & the Arab World

Background A decades-long conflict between Iran and Saudi Arabia has polarized much of the Middle East. Diplomatic competition intensified when new governments emerged in several countries as a result of the 2011 Arab uprisings. These rising political tensions have increased pressure on nations--like Qatar--that have tried to maintain positive relations with both sides. On the one hand, Qatar shares a border with Saudi Arabia and benefits from a strong trade relationship. Conversely, the country shares access to the world's largest reserve of natural gas with Iran, effectively tying their economic futures. Two other factors complicate Qatar's role. The nation houses the largest American military base in the region, and its strong ties with the United States gives Qatar less of a need to rely on regional allies. In addition, Qatar is also host to the largest media voice in the Middle East in the form of the Al Jazeera network. Some in the Middle East feel that the news network g...

Our visit to Purple Island was a way to experience a little of the geographic diversity of the country. It was perhaps the only place that was naturally green that I saw during my trip. It isn't purple. That was a little disappointing. I had to look it up to figure out its name--the island was named after an ancient dye industry. Reportedly, the maroon color of Qatar's flag came from the purple dye that was made on this island. I have no legitimate source for that claim, just an online post from a visitor--so don't hold me responsible if I'm wrong. It also doesn't really feel like an island. The water that separates the mainland from the island doesn't look more than a foot deep. In fact, I had to go back and check it out on a map to confirm that it is, in fact, an island. There are three big draws to Purple Island: the mangroves, the wildlife, and kayaking. First, the mangroves. I have to admit that I fell into the trap of overgeneralized expectations. I though...