QATAR

Mapping of the wealthy Gulf state of Qatar is coordinated through the Center for Geographic Information Systems (QCGIS), established by the Cabinet of Ministers in 1990. The map base of the peninsula was created in the period between 1947 and 1984 by Hunting Surveys in response to oil exploration needs. Modern photogrammetric surveys were carried out in the 1970s and a new geodetic framework was established, including the Qatar national grid, and mapping standards based upon the use of UTM specifications. Grid-based sheet lines have been used for series at scales from 1:100,000 through to 1:500 urban mapping. Basic scale mapping in the 1980s was carried out by the Engineering Services Department which produced maps at 1:5,000, 1:2,000, 1:1,000 or 1:500 scales depending upon the area. 1:5,000 and 1:2,000 scale maps showed relief with 1 m contours; the larger scale plans used spot heights and were uncontoured. Data were revised on a regular basis. Derived printed maps were in four colors with English and Arabic lettering. National coverage at 1:10,000 scale required 281 sheets, with 2 m contours, 1:50,000 scale maps covered Qatar in 15 sheets with contours at 2 m or 4 m intervals, while 1:100,000 scale mapping needed four sheets and showed relief with 4 m contours. A single 1:200,000 scale map of the state was also maintained.

The best available coverage of Qatar is Soviet military topographic mapping, it exists at the following scales: 1:1,000,000 (1 sheet, complete coverage, published in 1983); 1:500,000 (4 sheets, complete coverage, published 1977-1982); 1:200,000 (9 sheets, complete coverage, published in 1975); 1:100,000 (18 sheets, complete coverage, published 1978-1984) and a city (1:10,000) topographic map of Doha published in 1979. These products are available in print, digital raster and digital vector GIS formats from East View Geospatial.