A small isthmus in the central Gulf, with barely 300,000 citizens and a total population of 1.7 million, Qatar has risen rapidly from obscurity to become the world s wealthiest country per capita. Matthew Gray traces this spectacular rise, exploring the development of Qatar s economy, the patterns of its politics, its role on the world stage, and its prospects for the future.

The transformation of Qatar -- The historical context -- The political order -- Oil, gas, and rents -- Energy-driven economic diversification -- The strategy of national branding -- Qatar in the international arena -- Challenges for the future.