Qatar, English in

Qatar is considered to be an “Expanding Circle” nation, a country where English does not have an official status but is learned as a foreign language. However, English is ubiquitous in the country and is arguably no longer foreign. While empirical research on English in Qatar is limited, this entry provides an overview of some of the complex roles, statuses, and functions of English, as well as attitudes towards and ideologies about English. It focuses particularly on English as a lingua franca, English as an emerging variety, English as a medium of instruction, and English and identity in the country. The entry concludes with a discussion of some of the knowledge gaps about English in Qatar and areas that could use further investigation.