Qatar Direct: in pictures

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Qatar's spectacular West Bay is fast becoming an iconic image of the rapidly changing face of the oil-rich Gulf nations. Nigel Downes, a British photographer based in Qatar has taken a series of photographs reflecting the many qualities of the country.
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Qatar's spectacular West Bay is fast becoming an iconic image of the rapidly changing face of the oil-rich Gulf nations. Nigel Downes, a British photographer based in Qatar has taken a series of photographs reflecting the many qualities of the country.

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Qatar's emerging skyline features cutting-edge designs from the world's leading architects. These structures include many elements of Islamic and Arabian culture.

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The Katara mosque on the right is part of the Katara cultural village, a centre for literature, music, visual art, conventions and exhibitions. The unusual looking building on the left is a traditional dove cot.

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Al Zubarah, near Doha, is an important archaeological site famous for its old fort, now a museum. Constructed in 1938 with high, thick walls, the fort has also served as a coast-guard station.

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A Qatari man in traditional dress carries his lunch boxes in one hand and holds his Arabic flat bread in the other.

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Built on reclaimed land off the coast of Qatar, this recently constructed community models itself on Venice with an extensive canal system and Italian-style pedestrian piazzas.

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The Qatar Islamic Cultural Center, a prominent landmark visible from far out at sea. The lighthouse motif is a nod to Qatar's rich seafaring heritage.

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Two Qatari women drinking 'designer' coffee on a winter's evening at the Museum of Islamic Art park overlooking West Bay, Doha.

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The Aspire Tower, a hotel, was originally built for the 15th Asian Games hosted by Qatar in 2006. The building, at 300 metres (984 feet) high, can be seen from most parts of the city.

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Away from the city centre with its polish and glitz it is still possible to find traditional crafts workers. Here a cobbler repairs shoes in a quieter suburb of Doha.

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Qatar National Day is a national commemoration of Qatar's unification and independence. Held on the 18th of December each year.

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Members of the armed forces parade for National Day Parade in Doha. The country has a small armed force but has actively supported revolutions in Syria and Libya with money, diplomatic action and even weapons.

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Cash point, Arabian style. A clever solution to make a modern day ATM blend in with its traditional historic surroundings.

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A market porter takes a nap during the mid-day break in the wheel barrow he uses to ferry people's shopping about.

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Qatari gentleman relaxing in the Souk smoking his Shisha pipe.

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Saudi Arabian visitors stroll through Souk Waqif, home to many traditional Arabic restaurants and a focal point for visitors, local families and tourists.

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Porto Arabia, part of a huge construction project, is a man-made island off the coast of Qatar. Its waterfront cafes and restaurants are fast becoming a place where the local and expat communities meet, says Nigel Downes.