Qatar Flag: Meaning, Colors, History & Facts
Qatar’s national flag combines a large Al Adam maroon field with a white hoist band separated by nine serrated points. Its modern form dates to 1960.
What does the Qatar flag look like?
The flag has a broad white vertical section at the hoist and a much larger maroon field. Nine white triangular serrations project from the white area into the maroon.
Why is the flag maroon?
Qatar’s official sources call the color Al Adam. Historical accounts connect the shade with regional textile-dye traditions and Qatar’s distinctive maroon-red identity.
What does white mean?
The Ministry of Interior states that white represents peace.
Why are there nine points?
Official Qatari explanations state that the nine-point serrated line reflects Qatar’s historical position as the ninth member of the reconciled emirates following the 1916 treaty relationship with Britain.
Explore the nine points and maroon symbolism →
What is the official maroon color?
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs specifies Pantone 1955 C for the maroon field.
How did the Qatar flag develop?
The Amiri Diwan traces the adoption of maroon-red as a Qatari flag color to 1851. Later versions added serrations and, for a time, the word “Qatar.”
When did the current shape appear?
The flag took its present shape in 1960 during the reign of Sheikh Ali bin Abdullah Al Thani. Law No. 14 of 2012 later codified detailed specifications and display rules.
How can you identify Qatar’s flag?
Look for a very elongated maroon field and exactly nine white serrated points at the hoist. Bahrain’s related flag is brighter red and uses fewer serrations.
Qatar flag facts
| Colors | Al Adam maroon and white |
|---|---|
| Serrations | 9 |
| Official maroon | Pantone 1955 C |
| Present shape | 1960 |
| Modern flag law | 2012 |
