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How Qatar got so rich so fast

Harrison Jacobs   

How Qatar got so rich so fast
Finance1 min read

Doha Skyline at night

Shutterstock

FIFA officials were recently indicted in a $150 million bribery scandal in connection with the selection of host country for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

At the same time, Switzerland has announced a criminal investigation into the awarding of the 2022 World Cup to Qatar.

Its 120 degree summers and allegedly awful conditions for migrant workers has always made Qatar seem like an odd fit for host.

With the new investigation and multiple accusations of bribery around Qatar's bid, it seems more and more likely that Qatar was chosen for one reason: It has a lot of money.

In just 50 years, the tiny peninsula has gone from a poor fishing country to an oil giant with the highest per-capita GDP in the world at $98,800. Many suggest that number may vastly understate the actual wealth of Qatar's 280,000 citizens.

We've gathered photos to tell the incredible story of Qatar.

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