DOMESTIC POLITICS: The Economist Intelligence Unit expects Qatar to remain stable and secure under the rule of Sheikh Hamad in 2009-10. There will be little opposition to his rule and programme of economic reform, in large part because of the wealth this has brought to the Qatari population. An electoral law was passed in May 2008 that settled a number of disputes about the franchise and paved the way for the creation of a two-thirds elected Advisory Council with limited legislative powers. However, the term of the current (fully appointed) Council was subsequently extended for two years, so an election is unlikely before 2010. Even when an election is held, the ruling family will maintain its hegemony over policymaking because of the limited powers granted to the Council by the 2005 constitution.

Source: Qatar: Country outlook

Source: Country Forecast Qatar June 2009

Source: EIU Country Data