Qatar

On December 2, 2010, Qatar was awarded the hosting rights for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, marking it as the first Middle Eastern country to host the tournament. The bid was part of FIFA's decision to expand football's reach globally. Qatar's bid proposed new stadiums and a compact tournament concept, promising innovative cooling technologies to combat the region's intense summer heat. This decision was met with both celebration and controversy due to concerns over working conditions and allegations of corruption in the bidding process.

On June 25, 2013, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, abdicated and transferred power to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. This peaceful transition was notable in a region often marked by less predictable changes of power. Sheikh Tamim was educated at prestigious institutions and had been prepared for leadership through various roles in the Qatari government. His reign has seen continued development of Qatar's economy and infrastructure and efforts to enhance Qatar's influence on the global stage.

In December 2014, Qatar unveiled its National Vision 2030 initiative, a framework for the country's development over the next two decades. This vision aims to transform Qatar into an advanced society capable of sustaining its development and providing a high standard of living for its people. The plan focuses on four main pillars: economic, social, human, and environmental development, intending to diversify the economy beyond oil and gas and preparing for a post-hydrocarbon future.

On June 5, 2017, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Egypt severed diplomatic and economic ties with Qatar, accusing it of supporting terrorism and destabilizing the region. The crisis led to the closure of Qatar's only land border with Saudi Arabia and disrupted trade and travel links. Qatar denied the allegations and claimed the blockade violated international law. The diplomatic rift lasted over three years, affecting regional politics and economies until a resolution was reached in early 2021 through the Al-Ula agreement.

On December 2, 2018, Qatar announced it would leave OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) after 57 years of membership. Qatar stated its intention to focus on its natural gas production, where it is a leading global exporter. The decision came amidst a blockade imposed by several neighboring countries and a strategic pivot to concentrate on the nation's strengths in the global energy market. The move was viewed as significant, reflecting a shift in the country's energy and political priorities.

On October 28, 2019, the Doha Metro commenced operations, significantly enhancing public transportation in the Qatari capital. The metro is part of the country's infrastructure development linked to hosting the FIFA World Cup and reflects Qatar's efforts to improve urban mobility and sustainability. The first phase included three lines (Red, Green, and Gold) running through key locations, including the airport, business districts, and sports venues, offering a modern and efficient transit solution to residents and tourists alike.

In January 2020, Qatar and the United States unveiled an expansion project for the Al-Udeid Air Base, which is home to significant U.S. air operations in the Middle East. The expansion aimed to enhance the facilities and improve the living conditions for the personnel stationed there. It underscored the strategic military and defense collaboration between Qatar and the United States, cementing security ties in a region marked by various conflicts and geopolitical tensions.