Guys, having lived in Qatar for some time, I would go along with the Lonely Planet explanation of the most boring place on earth. If you get out regularly it makes it better. If you and the family are stuck there, I kid you not, there is virtually nothing to do, maybe a bit of dune bashing if you have a 4WD, swimming at the hotels when its not too hot/cold, nightlife is very limited. If you make your own entertainment and are not really worried about the above it might be bearable but I know very few people who have been there long term.
The other thing to remember are is that QR are such hire & fire specialists that you may get there with your family and then be fired for going to the cafeteria on the 7th floor without express written permission...and be on your way out again. Seriously, I don't think anyone working for QR really feels secure, myself and everyone I know don't.
You should check out conditions for QR..with a family you only get concessions & benefits for 3 kids and they only pay 50% of schooling charges which amounts to a relatively large proportion of a relatively small salary...so be warned.