Fertility Transitions in Qatar: The Dynamics between Women's Socioeconomic Status and Fertility

Abstract

Introduction: Qatar society has undergone major socio-economic transformations that have eventually promoted female access to education and career opportunities, which has, in turn, impacted fertility preferences. Objective: This paper examines the determinants of Qatari women's socioeconomic characteristics on fertility rates and preferences, as well as their policy implications. Methods: Data from a 2018 fertility survey project with a random sample of 607 Qatari households, collected via personal interviews using a questionnaire programmed into a computer-assisted personal interview system, were examined based on a multi-dimensional model. The data were analyzed using logistic and Poisson regression techniques. Results: The results demonstrated that the Qatari women's average fertility rate was 3.2, with the women in the 20-29 age group having the highest fertility rate. An evaluation of the effects of women's educational attainment and employment status revealed no significant factors influencing the age-specific fertility rate of Qatari women. The use of family planning methods was more prevalent in older women who have had more children than younger women. Conclusion: The paper concludes with practical family-friendly policy implications for higher authorities in response to the declining fertility rate among Qatari women by elucidating the sustainable development goals concerning Qatari national reproductive health.