There are clear signs that the hot summer is ending and cooler times beginning. The air from the air-con vents in my car is now cold. When outside air temperatures are in the high 40s, the cooling system can do little more than make the air inside less hot than outside, cooling the car enough to keep the windows closed, but not sufficiently to feel comfortable.

Walkers on the Corniche are another sign of Autumn. This morning we took our first walk since May, along with a whole bunch of other Qatar residents who have also come out to enjoy the more temperate weather.

At 5.30am the temperature was in the mid 30s. There was a light breeze. It was not too hot for an hour and quarter walk from the Emiri Diwan round to West Bay and back, and although as the sun rose it warmed up, we enjoyed the walk and the much needed exercise.

Hopefully our weekend routine will now be back to the early morning walks. It will also be cool enough in the evening to eat outdoors again.