I am a british expat too, I think it depends on what type of lifestyle you are used to in the uk. If you are used to living in London or Manchester then Qatar will be quieter than you are used to. I have been out more since i have been in Qatar than i did in the UK purely because the weather is better,we have more disposable income and you need to throw yourself into things to make friends.

The lifestyle is much more relaxed than the UK except for the mental driving!!                                              

    Keep Smiling :-) you never know who is looking