Motoring
in Qatar
ISSUE
84
MOTORING ESSENTIALS MAIN CAR SHOWROOMS AND SERVICE CENTRES CAR REVIEWS MAP OF INDUSTRIAL AREA FEATURES: NEW NUMBER PLATES TO CELEBRATE THE FIFA WORLD CUP QATAR 2022TM SILA: CONNECTING TRANSPORT TO ONE NETWORK SCOOTING AROUND QATAR
AUTUMN 2022
EGUIDE COVER LAYOUT M84.indd 7
8/10/22 12:30 PM
QATAR MOTORING E-GUIDE ©
MARHABA
2 MOWASALAT M84 AD.indd 1
8/10/22 10:04 AM
Motoring
PRINT and ONLINE
marhaba.qa
Motoring
Feature – New Number Plates to Celebrate Historic Football Tournament Since June 2022, newly registered vehicles in Qatar have number plates bearing the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM logo.
Main Car Showrooms
MG GT
Useful Numbers Motoring Reviews Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
Service Centres Motoring Essentials
Honda Pilot
• Obtaining a Qatari Driving Licence • The Driving Test • Other Driving Licences • Permits • Licence Renewals • Metrash 2 Service • Driving Conditions and Violations • Traffic Accidents • Car Insurance • Weather Conditions • Petrol Stations and Other Services
Map of Industrial Area The locations of major service centres and other entities
The information contained in this guide has been checked and verified as correct as at the time of compilation. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, information is subject to change. Follow marhaba.qa for the latest updates. ©
INTRO PAGE M84.indd 10
MARHABA
AUTUMN 2022
8/10/22 10:03 AM
Founder & Managing Editor Hilary Bainbridge
Marhaba endeavours to quote accurate information and updates each of its sections every issue. However, the company accepts no responsibility or liability for any false, inaccurate, inappropriate or incomplete information presented, whether in print, on the website, or on social media channels.
Editorial Sarah Palmer (Editor) Ola Diab (Deputy Editor) Terry Sutcliffe
© 2022 Marhaba Information Guide. All Rights Reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, in any form, without written permission of the publishers.
Advertising Howard Bainbridge Charlotte Wright Maria Anicas
Dana Public Relations PO Box 3797, Doha, Qatar Tel (+974) 4465 5533, 4465 0083
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5 VODAFONE M84 AD.indd 1
8/10/22 10:05 AM
ACS
di
Wa
A
t
Mes Mesaime Service
Doha Ma
sim n Bi
Zaks Uniform Store Ideal Indian
Qatar Ind Tech QDC Safari
Ruqayya
o
dS
Cambridge Girls
MES
Park House
Bangladesh
t lU
ee
Immigration
Al Jazeera Academy
Al Sulaiti
St
ad
Doha Modern Indian
Pak Education Centre
Mind Institute
t mS
DOHA GREATER MAP M84.indd 2
ziz
Ab du lA
56
01 Mall
a oriy
Bin
Doha Academy
Girls Creativity Al Ma Centre Qatar Egyptian Skills Language Academy TEK Alfardan Gardens 3
e
St a ou
t
St
Ray y
afa Al af f Gh
Al Fu r
dS eara Al M
St mad Su h aim Bin Ha
56
a St
Ras
Bi
Onaiz
PISQ
St
Al Maha
ed
Umm Al S enee
Mannai
t
NBK
Kha l
t
et
rk
dS
BMW
e
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Ma
ale
Khaled Bin Ahmed
hm nA
y wa ss
ale
les ho
W
Kh
5
German School Doha
Mesaimeer Vaccination Unit Qatar Scientific Club
Ain Khaled Gate
Ste
4
t
Alfardan Gardens 4
Al Maamoura Traffic Police
Elder Tree Nursery
St
Ali
lS
lou
Ha
Dar Al Salam Mall
Rd
l
Sa
Omar Bin Al Khattab
Zakat Fund
d
d
aR
Nissan
Skills Developm Center Dreama
GAC
Doha British
Jarir
lw
Sa
Salwa Rd Bridge
oa
R wa
pre
y Cit
t
aS
Tebah Gardens
2
Gulf Pearl
Al Mirqab Mall
Cafe Batteel
Al Asiri
ASD
NBK Mercedes Hyundai Auto Class MG / Maxus Mitsubishi
Lycee Voltaire
2
Family Food Centre
Ex
St
ts Aziziya
idr
Belgravia
Garvey’s
Abu Bakir Siddique
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al Sadd Club)
55
N He
Hamad Am Hospital
39
QNA
55
CESK
Beverly Hills
Ain
CEID
Doha Academy Al Waab Campus
r Spo
55
Alfardan Gardens 2
53
Newton
t/
Qatar Veterinary Centre
ziziy
Academy
See more details of the area in our map of INDUSTRIAL AREA
Forensic Lab Dept
Sport City
eS Zon
Al Aziziyah
ir e
Villaggio
Al S
KidsZania
d oa aR iliy Summit
Sa
St
Al Waab City
Beverly Hills Gardens
Royal Vet
Al
Study Plus
Whit Palac
Hamad
Women’s Warwick
ha
Torch
ad
Do
aab
Awqaf
Al Sudan
Fir Stat
Wyndham Central AIA Le Park Inn Vet Surge The Avenue Imperial Suites Millennium Al S Al Asmakh Royal Plaza Mall La C Al Sadd St British Joaan Swiss Council Belinn DoubleTree Al Sadd Doha Clinic Victoria Hospital
Step by Step
Al W
n Al d Bi me Ah
St
Academy Aspetar
Aspire Zone Hyatt Plaza
Rasheeda St
MoI HQ
Th Bin ed mm A ha Mo
City
an Ro
ir
Aspire Park
Al Rayy
Am
Al Aziziyah Boutique Hotel
t Jassim Bi n Ali S
Lulu
Al
Al Rayyan Traffic Police
Town Centre
54 38
Khalifa International Stadium FIFA World Cup Al Waab Qatar 2022™
St fous l Kh u
20 1 Nissan Civil Defence Al Ahli Hospital
Debakey
54
Driving School
Asp
53
Al Rayyan Security Dept
&
Messila
A
Q S
Volvo
36 37 Medical
Al Messila Resort & Spa
r rrido Co ad – HIA hm a I/C l A khb e h L b a U mm
A
Royal Hall
Philippine School of Doha
Al Rayyan
Sa
University of Calgary
Edison
Wathnan Mall
University Foundation College English Modern School
Al Messila
Appletree Nursery
64
Al Jazeera
St
t
Khattab St
Al Jazira Al Arabiya St
Al Rayyan Al Qadeem
yan Al Jadeed S t
Al A
51 Al Gharrafa/ Bani Hajer 52 Al Luqta/Lebday Old Al Rayyan/ Al Shaqab 53 New Al Rayyan Muaither, Al Wajba 54 Al Soudan, Mehairja, Muraikh, Luaib, Baaya 55 Al Soudan, Al Waab 56 Bu Hamour, Mesaimeer, Ain Khaled 57 Industrial Area 60 Al Dafna 61 Al Dafna, Al Gassar 62 Lekhwair 63 Onaiza 64 Lejbailat 65 Onaiza 66 Legtaifiya, Onaiza 67 Hazm Al Markhiya 68 Jelaiah, Al Tarfa 69 Al Egla 70 Wadi Al Banat, Al Ebb Rawdat Al Hamama
Racing & Equestrian Club
Al Furousiya St
E
26 27
28 Sharg Zone/ Al Khulaifat 29 Ras Bu Abboud 30 Duhail 31 Umm Lekhba 32 Madinat Khalifa (N) 33 Al Markhiya 34 Madinat Khalifa (S) 35 Kulaib 36 Al Messila 37 New Al Hitmi/ Bin Omran Hamad Medical City 38 Al Sadd 39 Al Nasr/Al Sadd Al Mirqab Al Jadeed 40 New Slata 41 Nuaija 42 Al Hilal 43 Al Maamoura, Nuaija 44 Nuaija 45 Old Airport 46 Mesaimeer/ Al Thumama 47 Al Thumama 48 Doha Int'l Airport 49 Hamad Int'l Airport/ Banana Island
kS
34 35
Omar Bin Al
Compass
St
18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25
Al Jasra Al Bidda Mohd Bin Jasim Mushaireb Barahat Al Jufairi Old Al Ghanim Al Souq Wadi Al Sail Arumaila, Armeilla Al Bidda Abdul Aziz Al Doha Al Jadeeda Old Al Ghanim Sharg Zone/ Al Hitmi/Al Rufaa Sharg Zone/Slata Doha Port Wadi Al Sail Al Rumeila, Armeilla Bin Mahmoud Bin Mahmoud Rawdat Al Khail Al Mansoura/ Bin Derhem Najma Umm Ghuwailina
adeena St Al M
tee
Al
Imam Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab
QBS QTV
DESS
French Nursery
Beverly Hills Al Rayyan
Sedaira St
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 10 11 12 14 15 16 17
H
Newton
Al Salam St
Full details of Qatar’s districts and zones at gisqatar.org.qa
lA
Qatar Guest Centre
Omar Bin Al Khattab
52
nA
ar
uw
Al Ray
Al Q a l ah
St jba
(zones comprise one or more districts, some of which are listed below)
Swiss International
Al Wajba St
THE ZONES OF DOHA D
Al Rayyan Municipality Food Jarir Centres Bookstore
Ja
Honda
Makkah St
Al Shaqab
Education City St Al Rayya
Chef’s Garden
Ansar Gallery
Al Shafi St
a Al W
Metro Stations
ORANGE LINE Legtaifiya to Energy City South
Souq Al Ali
Makkah St Oxygen Park Gate 5
Al Shaqab Mathaf
LUSAIL
Green line Al Riffa Mall of Qatar - Al Mansoura
Qatar Nat’l Library
Doha College Al Wajba
All trains connect at Msheireb Station Red line Lusail QNB - HIA T1 - Al Wakra
Education City
St
EC Golf Club
Doha Metro Network
Gold line Al Aziziyah - Ras Bu Abboud
uqta
Al L
Edison
Traffic Dept HQ
Al Gharrafa
Al Meera
Al Hazm
ad in Ham Jasi m B
Al Wajba
Gate 2
St
51
51
College of Islamic Studies Education City Mosque
SEK
West Bay
32 33 Khalifa St
Al Luqta St
Oma
lA Jee ven ra u
3
Car Park
Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI)
d
Road
uard
2
Compass QNCC Qatar National Library
In F du
CCoQ
Madinat Khalifa
Porsche Quick Service
New
Al Kh
St
Kanga’s Pouch Elder Tree KG
Park View Compass Pet Centre
Little Academy
66
ty
Al M
Starfish Lane Kids
Umm Lekhba
St
siy
Dukhan
iri G
Education City Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™
in Jassim
St
6
67 zm
Edison
a St Al Markhiy
22 Feb
Am
b St
Premier Inn Doha Education City Hotel
Ha
Dahl Al Hamam Family Park
Ezdan Mall
T ha n i B QSTP
si
cia
Al Gharr afa St
an S
t Al Jahhaniya I/C
LuLu
Ezdan Palace Landmark Mall
Gulf Mall
er
Jawaan
ad Ro Ma jd
Al
Al Riffa - Mall of Qatar
C
Education City Community Housing
erha
31
ACS Int’l School
iv
J Mall
Qatar Canadian School
ya
rkh Ma
Al T
g
1
Le
51
Gulf English School
Un
hiya St ark
AlRayyan Hotel
eague St) rab L
Japan School
A was
t
tS
Celebration Hall
Al Ghaf St
Jelaiah Complex
ifi
Lycee Wadi Rawd a n St Voltaire
68
Starfish Lane Kids 2
St Al Khafji
Duhail
13. Qatar Foundation Headquarters
ta
Jeliah St
Qatar Veterinary Centre
Riviera Gardens
Al Gharrafa Sports Club
Sherborne
Mall of Qatar
il St
uha
Al D Al Gharrafa Park
Ministry of Education
University of Doha for Science and Technology
, 245
A 14. Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) 15. Qatar National Library (QNL) 16. Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP) 17. Sidra Medicine 18. Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ) 19. Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts in Qatar (VCUarts Qatar) 20. Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) 21. Academyati
ee
2
Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™
Interchange
( )
Academic Bridge Program (ABP) Al Shaqab Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar (CMU-Q) Ceremonial Court Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) Education City Golf Club Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) Education City Mosque Multaqa (Student Center) Northwestern University in Qatar (NU-Q) Oxygen Park Qatar Academy Doha (Primary School)
kr
ad
la
Education City EC 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.
St niya
Ze
Ro
Doha Shooting Club
Compass
ez l Gh
eet
St
Str St. (
30
Izghawa North Gate
Dukhan Zekreet Al Sheehaniya Sheikh Faisal Museum
Al Meera
d ama
B
H Bin
awa
68
St
Jasim
Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium (Al Duhail Sports Club)
Doha G
me r
Road Interchange
Qatar University
FAHES
om
Restaurant
Health Centre
70
Al Kharaitiyat /
aC
Auto Dealer
Non-stop Expressway
69
Newton
Ba rw
Sub-station
em St
Veterinary Clinic
Club
WOQO
MoI Immigration Department et Directorate of Passports Stre rfa Ta Al
Al Sene
School, College, Club
Housing Complex
Doha Festival City
t et S kre Ze
Al Majd Road (Orbital)
oad
Government Office
70
Duhail Water Pumping Station
S
arfa
Al T
Jeryan Nejaima Street
al R
Petrol Station
Arch at Intersection of Al Tarfa and Lusail Streets
am Sh IKEA
Fox Hills South
ejaima Street
Al
an
Religious Complex
Sports Stadium
Al Izgh
4
kh
Bookstore
Cultural Landmarks
Al Rufaa Street
Faisal Museum
Du
The International School of London in Qatar
Mosque
Shopping Mall
Lu Tow
vd
sail Bl
169/Lu
Street
Jeryan N
Qatar Finland Int’l School
Legend Hospital
WOQOD
Fox Hills North
Crescent Park
QATAR
Hotel
Al Bayt Stadium is in Al Khor City, 30 km to the north on Al Khor Road
Lusail
CGIS
prepared in cooperation with
Al Bayt Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™
Lusail Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™
6
d
Doha
Map of Greater
See our map of the area north of Doha MAP of AL KHOR
1
r R oa
A
2
3
Al Khor Semaisma Lusail Int’l Circuit
o Al Kh
Al Majd Road 4
2
Al Shamal Al Ruwais Ras Laffan Al Zubara Al Khor Umm Garn Umm Slal
Lusail Al Mazrooah Al Shamal Rd
Umm
1
Ras Laffan Al Shamal Al Zubara Al Khor Al Shamal Rd
8/2/22 1:11 PM
Ansar Gallery
Icon Tower
Meryal Waterpark
Lusail Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™
6
WOQOD
WOQOD
5
EMBASSY LOCATIONS
Rixos
o hor R
Fox Hills North
ad
Lusail Towers
vd
Qetaifan Island South
sail Bl
169/Lu
Street
4
Qetaifan Island North
Qetaifan Island North
Crescent Park
Fox Hills South
Le Royal Meridien Place Vendome
Beverly Hills Lusail Cielo
Arch at Intersection of Al Tarfa and Lusail Streets
Qatari Diar
eet
Str
WOQOD
69
Wonderland
Prom
enade
Doha Sports Park
t ree
Marina
Marina District
Staybridge Suites
t
Katara Hospitality
QIPCO
Qatar University
Doha Golf Club Lagoona Mall
ag
St
iv
er
si
66
ty
Institut Francais du Qatar
Al M
hiya St ark
Edison
CCoQ
SEK
West Bay
65
St
sim n Bi ziz
Ab du lA DESS
Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex Barzan
62
20 10 a St
iS
11 Park
White Palace
Hamad
St
Ooredoo
Four Seasons
Hotel Park Sheraton
60he ic rn
Doha Port Cruise Ship Terminal
Museum of Islamic Art
12
NCCCR Heart
Women’s
nduq
Tower Palm Towers
t aS
38
ad
61
DECC Al Fu
Hilton
The Curve
Amiri Diwan
he St Souq Al Cornic Waqif Bin Zaid Movenpick
C4
Bangladesh
D4
Mexico
C4
Belarus
B3
Moldova
B4
C3
Morocco
C4
Benin
C3
Nepal
E3
Bosnia & H
B3
Netherlands
C4
Brazil
B3
Niger
C3
Brunei
B3
Nigeria
Bulgaria
B3
North Macedonia C4
Burkina Faso
B3
Oman
B4
Canada
C4
Pakistan
C4
C. African Rep
B3
Palestine
C4
Chile
C4
Panama
B4
China
B3
Paraguay
B4
Costa Rica
C3
Peru
C3
Croatia
B3
Philippines
B3
Cuba
B4
A
C4
B3
Poland
Cyprus
C4
Portugal
Djibouti
B4
Romania
C4
Dom. Rep.
B3
Russia
B4
Ecuador
B4
Senegal
C3
El Salvador
B4
Serbia
B3
Eritrea
E4
Singapore
B4
eSwatini
B4
Somalia
C4
Ethiopia
B4
South Africa
B3
France
B4
C4
C4
Spain
Gambia
E4
Sri Lanka
E4
Georgia
C4
Sudan
B4
Germany
C3
Sweden
C4
Ghana
B3
Switzerland
B3
Greece
B4
Syria
C4
Hungary
B3
Tajikistan
C3
India
C4
Tanzania
C4
Indonesia
D3
Thailand
Iran
C4
Tunisia
C4
Iraq
C4
Turkey
B4
Italy
C4
Uganda
B3
Ivory Coast
B4
Ukraine
B3
Japan
B4
United Kingdom
C4
Jordan
C4
Kazakhstan
B3
United States of America
C3
Kenya
B3
Uruguay
C3
Korea (S)
B4
Venezuela
B4
Kosovo
C4
Vietnam
B3
B
C4
C
Najma St
D
B
oud St
ME & HE
American Academy
g Rd
47
E Rin
Sub-station
Al Thumama Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™
King’s College
See our detailed map of the area south of Doha MAP of AL WAKRA
Kahramaa Awareness Park
mad
Ah h Al
a
Sab Umm
Air Force I/C
St
t’l ad In
am
C–H
ba I/
Lekh
idor
Corr
ort
Airp
Free Zone Qatar Free Zone
Rd
e
daill
Al Fa
kra
46
Al Meera
Wa
Kahramaa
Al Weteyyat
cia
lA Jee ven ra u
B4
Mauritania
Abb
Rawdat Al Khail St
St
Jawaan
Mali
B4
Bu
Oqba Ibn Nafie
Al
me r
C4
Azerbaijan
St
Nafie Oqba Bin
t
om
Ras
Airport Shoprite
ri S nsa
aC
C4
Austria
HIA T1
Al A
Ba rw
B3
Malaysia
A
oub
Ansar Gallery
Libya
C4
Oryx Airport Hotel Concourse C
Ayy
Mind Institute
B3
Australia
E
D
Abu
Meteorology
Medical Commission Drainage Dept
St
Mesaimeer
Rd
Armenia
Montezine
t
Safari
et Stre ort Airp Old
aS
I
a
re
lA
ria
st
45 jm Na
QDC
Berlitz
u nd
IAID
t
Qatar Ind Tech
44 E Ring Rd
Tank Farm
Doha Mall
Zaks Uniform Store Ideal Indian
The Mall
Qatar Red Crescent
Mesaimeer Mesaimeer Services
Park House
Bangladesh
Summit KG
Indian Cultural Centre
LuLu
Regency Halls
Elder Tree Al Ahli Nursery Sports Club
rt po
t
Immigration
Al Jazeera Academy
atar entific Club
dS
Cambridge Girls
Kahramaa
aS
Doha Modern Indian
Pak Education Centre
43
C4
Hamad International Airport
48
Air
ee
MES
2526 jm Na
56
ad
B4
Liberia
Bu Abboud
C Ring Rd
Ro
Qatar Egyptian Skills Language Academy TEK Alfardan Gardens 3
Newton Int’l
Doha Academy
Girls Creativity Al Ma Centre
i
Grand Hamad St
ing CR
y wa ss
German School Doha
Alfardan Gardens 4
amoura c Police
e j St
d St
hmou
pre
Ex
D Ring Rd
Lebanon
B3
Stadium 974 FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™
National Museum of Qatar
41 42
40
lo
Ha
Dar Al Salam Mall
e Al Khal
Bin Ma
St mad Su h aim Bin Ha
ha
Do
55
C4
Argentina
C4
Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara
16 23 14 15 27
24
C3
Algeria
ark
1 7 22 13 34 5 6 17
39
Kyrgyz Rep
xP
Bo
Saraya Jouri Central Banyan Le Park Inn Tree Vet Alwadi Sharq Surgery The Avenue Village & Spa Four National Park Hyatt Souq Imperial Suites Millennium Points by Al Sadd Museum t Sheraton dS Al Asmakh Royal Plaza Msheireb Waqif Abbou Mall Ras Bu Ramada Abu Bakr La Cigale St Encore Ras Al Sadd St b e Premier Inn ir British Joaan Bin Swiss ha Doha Airport Hotel Al Doha Council Belinn Musherib Mahmoud i Mus Capital Al Jadeda DoubleTree Qatar ad Al Liwan Police W Al Sadd Doha Clinic Victoria Aeronautical Westin Doha Hospital Concorde College dan Crowne B Ring Rd Jarir Bookstore Safir Plaza The Gulf dusitD2 Al Muntazah QNA Doha Heliport Al Mirqab Centre Pearls Chevrolet Holiday Mall Al Muntazah Umm Inn Family Radisson Blu Plaza Steigenberger Food Centre by Step Ghuwailina Jarir New Blue Rose Rawda Al Meera d Sterling Strato by Warwick Cafe Al Mansoura aR ad American Rawdat Jassim Bin Hamad Batteel Al Meera lw Ford Hyatt Regency Al Khail Stadium Sa St Hospital Oryx Doha Al Mansour Park AAB Nissan (Al Sadd Club) lib a Suites Al Jabor i T Turkish Al Mana Al Matar Al Qadeem Vision Ab Holiday d Hospital Chrysler Omar Bin gR Al Asiri Villa Bin n i R D li C CCoQ Al Khattab New A CAA Aslata Gulf Times Skills Salwa Rd Financial Marhaba Park Arrayah Safeer Al Arabi Square Development Bridge Club Gulf Rd Family Center Warehousing ing Food Centre Al Meera R Alfardan Al Emadi Darwish D Dreama St Hospital Le Mirage Gardens Travel ul AIA
Kuwait
B4
MIA Park
2
Rumailah
Hamad Ambulance Al Bidda Hospital Wyndham
Warwick
Katara The Pearl-Qatar Lagoona Mall Al Bidda Park Souq Waqif National Museum of Qatar Grand Mosque QNCC Al Shaqab Mathaf Museum
Marriott Hotel Sharq Village & Spa Fisherman’s Wharf Museum of Islamic Art The Corniche Orrie Oryx City Center-Doha Hotel Park Hilton Hotel InterContinental Hotel
W
Dusit City Center
id d
an Ro
DOHA HOP-OFF BUS SIGHTSEEING ROUTE stops at
Dafna St St
Al B
City
Debakey
Al Rayy
The Pearl Island
Qatar Al Mourjan National Theatre
Fire Station
t
St
Lulu
sila
la
Corniche
Onaiz
6 37 Medical
Floresta Gardens
Qatar Post
t ni S Tha Bin ed mm Al Bidda ha Mo MoI HQ
Viva 29
North Beach
St Tornado da
West Bay l Bid A
Nissan Civil Defence Al Ahli Hospital
Town Centre
lM uk ht ar
63
Qatar Sports Club
Al Jazeera
n Al d Bi me Ah
ippine ool Doha
ad in Ham Jasi m B
ya St
ar A
InterCon The City
Newton
Volvo
QBS QTV
4 35
Medina Centrale
23
Bahriya Novo Cinemas Sedra Arjaan by Rotana 31 (Tower 26) Perlita Beach Beach Gardens 30
InterContinental Beach & Spa InterContinental Residences
61
The Gate
Imam Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab
Honda
Qatar Guest Centre
Porto Arabia
St Regis Doha
Al Qassar Resort
t
64
Om
Al Jazi Gardens
Al S iya rkh Ma
fic HQ
Ja
1
The Pearl Island
Porsche
20
St
5/6 Int’change
Al Meera
Al Hazm
Edison
ar
Onaiza St
33
St. Regis Marsa Arabia Island
18
Al Qassar
5/6 Park
Omar Al M uk ht
Kanga’s Pouch Elder Tree KG Starfish Lane Kids
Chouiefat
66
67 zm
La Cr
22
2
Marza Katara
12
Newton
Newton
Al Co
Ha
ab St
4
21 High St
Al Khafji St
St
J Mall
6
Oyster Diplomatic Club
The Chedi Katara
Lusail St
Un
7
14 15
10
ette ois
g
68
St
Legtaifiya
Lusai l St
Le
L
Lycee Wadi Rawd a n St Voltaire
Al Ghaf St
ds 2
ya
t n S Katara oo
Marsa Malaz Kempinski
Qanat Quartier Hilton The Pearl
Katara
Jeliah St
ah plex
ifi
la
Is
Abraj Quartier
Ministry of Education
ta
an
w
Ge
Mondrian Grand Hyatt
Legtaifiya Lagoon
y of cience ology
Ritz-Carlton
nd
o La Cr isette
aS
B3
Albania
Belgium
Raffles and Fairmont Hotels are housed in the iconic Katara Towers
Al Maha Island
Yacht Doha Club Winter
QT MOCI
eet
Shafallah Centre
Newton
Century
il Str Lusa
arfa
Al T
Lusail City
Waldorf Astoria
Afghanistan
Ras Bufontas Qatar Free Zone
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Airport (49) I/C Workers Health Centre
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FEATURE
New Number Plates to Celebrate World Cup By Ola Diab Since June 2022, newly registered vehicles in Qatar have number plates bearing the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM logo.
A
ll newly registered vehicles in Qatar have number plates bearing the official logo of the upcoming FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM, in addition to the special plates announced at the recent 11th Electronic Auction for Special Numbers. The Ministry of Interior announced that the special numbers recently auctioned on Metrash2 would carry the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM logo. The public online auction sold 50 car plates through the Metrash2 app. As per rules, participants are required to make a security deposit of QAR5,000. Numbers with the football championship's logo were installed only on newly registered vehicles since June 2022. Lieutenant Faisal Abdulaziz Al Haydous, an officer at the Vehicles Number Plate Workshop, explained that the auction includes samples of the plates that were recently put up for electronic auction to sell special numbers, organised by the General Directorate of Traffic. The new plates will bear the logo of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM.
A person can own more than one number, yet the auction committee reserves the right to take back the auctioned number or exclude any participant that is violating the auction rules. If the bidder withdraws from payment, the security deposit will be forfeited. If a bidder wins more than one special number, none of them will be granted to him until he pays all the amounts for the special numbers he won. The traffic police department sold 50 number plates with the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM logo during the online auction, with the most expensive number selling for QAR1.8 mn (USD495,000). Special plate numbers auction for cars are very popular that could amount to USD55 mn. For more information, visit hukoomi.gov.qa/en/ service/special-plate-numbers-auction.The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM is scheduled to take place in Qatar from 21 November to 18 December 2022. This will be the first World Cup ever to be held in the Arab world. m
Special Plate Numbers Auction The Ministry of Interior hosts annual special plate number auctions. Nationals, residents and companies can participate online in special plate number auctions or buy the plate directly, if it is offered for direct purchase. A variable fee, usually QAR100, commonly determined by the General Traffic Department, is applicable to issue a special number ownership certificate. Those who have received the right to purchase an elite car number must pay for it within two days, otherwise they will be banned from purchasing it and receive a fine. The payment can be completed by cheque to the Finance Department at the Ministry of Interior or by credit card. The rules and conditions of HE Minister of Interior Decree No 6 of 2001 on special numbers are applicable to the auctions. QATAR MOTORING E-GUIDE ©
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Msheireb Downtown Doha Unit #G12, Building #30, Street #950, zone #03 W W W. P R E S E N T E D B Y.C O M | @ P R E S E N T E D B Y | + 9 74 4 0 0 1 1 3 8 3
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Main Car Showrooms
Car Showrooms
• • • • • •
Auto Class Cars Salwa Road Hours: 8 am – 9 pm, Fri 5 pm – 9 pm 4040 1444 mg-qa.com
Domasco Khalifa Street Hours: 8 am – 8 pm, Fri 4 pm – 8 pm Toll free 8008 123 honda-mideast.com/en-qa, domasco.com
Qatar Automobiles Company Salwa Road, Al Waab Zone 55 4422 7555 mitsubishiqatar.com
Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co. Salwa Road and Al Khor 4428 3333 and 4464 7848 nissanqatar.com
Domasco Salwa Road, opposite HSBC bank Hours: 8 am – 8 pm, Friday Closed 4424 8989, Toll free 8008 123 domasco.com
Domasco Khalifa Street Hours: 8 am – 8 pm, Friday Closed Toll free 8008 123 volvocars.com/en-qa, domasco.com
Bentley 4411 4411 • BMW, MINI 4420 8888 • Cadillac, GMC, Opel, Subaru 4455 8000 Chevrolet 8000 100 • Citroen 4436 1811 • Ford, Lincoln 4448 9922 • GMC 4455 8053 Hyundai, Genesis 8000 231 • Infiniti 4460 0167 • Jaguar 4440 8490 • KIA 4403 9444 Lamborghini 4411 4411 • Land Rover, Jaguar 4447 7566 • Maserati 800 0003 • Maxus 4040 1444 McLaren 4411 4411 • Porsche 4459 9666 • Skoda 4468 8894 • Suzuki 4462 0967 Toyota 4462 9321 • Volkswagen 4445 2365
QATAR MOTORING E-GUIDE ©
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Useful Numbers
PRINT and ONLINE
marhaba.qa
EMERGENCIES – AMBULANCE, FIRE OR POLICE – 999 For those considering driving licence applications, driving lessons, car hire, vehicle purchase or lease, and breakdown cover, all the relevant contact numbers are listed below. The rest of the Motoring section has more essential information, including test drives of selected models, car showrooms and service centres. Vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and seat belts are mandatory for both driver and frontseat passenger. Although measures have been implemented by the traffic department to help reduce the accident rate in Qatar, driving here can still be a hazardous affair and you need to remain fully aware and alert at all times when you are driving. Speeding, tailgating and sudden lane changing, especially near traffic lights, are common.
Useful Numbers
Be aware – radar! Be careful to keep your speed within the limits; there are cameras on most roads keeping watch on traffic speeds. Be especially careful at traffic lights as this is where most violations occur. The penalties, in financial terms, are strict: QAR6,000 for going through a red light and seven (black) points! See Traffic Violations in Motoring Essentials for more details. Motorists should exert caution and watch out for cyclists or people stepping onto the road unexpectedly, especially at night. Conversely, be mindful if you need to cross the road on foot as it is easy to misjudge speeds of oncoming vehicles. Cars tend to move fast and unpredictably, except when in a traffic jam. For convenience, use the Metrash2 app for a number of services, such as transfer of ownership, istimara (permit) renewal, and payment of violations.
Madinat Khalifa Traffic Department
Pre-owned Vehicles
HQ building on Khalifa Street C3 234 4444
Al Boraq Automobiles Co (Porsche Approved Pre-owned Cars) 4459 9666
Open Sunday to Thursday 6:30 am – 12:30 pm/ 1 pm – 7 pm, Saturday 8 am – noon, Friday closed
Domasco (Honda) 800 8123
Traffic Investigation Department
Jaidah Automotive (Chevrolet) 800 0100
Madinat Khalifa (24/7) C3
234 4499
Locations include Al Thumama, Al Wakra, Dukhan, Education City, Industrial Area, Maamoura, Umm Slal, and some insurance companies. Visit Hukoomi for online services, gov.qa
Vehicle Inspection
Domasco (Volvo)
4424 6860
Oasis Used Cars 4431 2828 Qatar Automobiles Co (Mitsubishi)
4422 7555
Bank Auto Finance Departments See Banking and Finance in Business and Economy for a list of banks.
FAHES 4021 8800
Motor Insurance Companies
Driving Schools
Al Khaleej Insurance 4404 1111 4032 4444
Doha Insurance Company 4429 2777
Gulf Driving School
4465 2822
General Takaful 4449 9999
Karwa Driving School
4458 8865
Libano-Suisse Insurance Company
United Driving School
4468 1003
Qatar Insurance Company (QIC) 800 0742 Qatar Islamic Insurance Company 4465 8888
Car Rental and Leasing Al Futtaim Vehicle Rentals (AVR) Avis Rent-A-Car (Head Office) gulfcar
4466 4406
800 0225
Vehicle Breakdown Services
4466 7744
Arabian Automobile Association 4481 0400/0500
800 0881
Other breakdown services are available from smaller entities around town – be aware that they may not be insured to provide this service though.
National Car Rental (Head Office)
4474 0666
Oasis Rent-A-Car
4413 0011
Prestige Cars
5547 4242
Regency Fleets
4032 5301
Checked & Updated June 2022
Al Khebra (also offers VIP courses)
You may have breakdown assistance as part of your insurance policy or be able to add it – check with the insurance company. ©
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ALL-NEW
ECLIPSE CROSS TECHSPEC ENGINE Turbocharged 1.5 litre 16-valve DOHC MIVEC; electronic direct fuel injection MAX POWER 147 hp (110 kW) @ 5,500 rpm MAX TORQUE 255 Nm (184 lb-ft) from 2,000 rpm TRANSMISSION 4WD advanced eight-speed CVT gives smooth, powerful acceleration with new sports mode shift control and paddle shift EXTERIOR Dynamic, youthful lines exude a sense of energy; the elegant, sporty front grille, LED headlights; sloping roofline and rising shoulder line give a coupé-like appearance; deeply sculpted lines and good use of polished chrome enhance its look of quality; rear styling is much sleeker and offers good visibility; 18" alloys INTERIOR More space and touch-friendly trim create a modern vibe; attractive black and metal trim; new seat designs are great and visibility is good all round; digitally up to date too, with large 8.0" touchscreen showing Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; Bluetooth technology, dual USB ports; eight speakers provide great Hi-Fi from the MPSS premium sound system; steering wheel controls SAFETY/SECURITY Mitsubishi is a leader in safety technology: seven front, side and curtain airbags; Active Stability Control; ABS and driveline traction control; blind spot warning; lane departure warning; rear cross traffic alert; misacceleration mitigation; tyre pressure monitoring system; keyless operation; engine start button; disc brakes all round; high strength energy-absorbing reinforced RISE body
Qatar Automobiles Company on Salwa Road offer very competitive prices and will be pleased to arrange a test drive of the new Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross or any of its SUVs and cars for Marhaba readers. Call 4422 7555 QATAR MOTORING E-GUIDE ©
Mitsubishi has been building tough cars and SUVs for over 100 years; as people's tastes are moving more to compact SUVs and Crossovers, it is logical to see the Eclipse Cross emerge as another SUV to enhance Mitsubishi’s already wide range. With its modern exterior design, elegant interior and advanced technology, the fast-selling Eclipse Cross appeals to a young and active audience; it's right in the middle of the booming market segment for compact SUVs to which the Eclipse Cross brings Mitsubishi's reputation for durability and economy. It certainly feels solid – I was instantly reassured by the feeling of well-made quality and being well-planted safely and securely on the road. Less noticeable than the styling but perhaps more important is the new turbocharged 1.5 litre inline-four under the bonnet. Part of a new engine family, it puts out around 150 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. A sign of a good engine is where the torque starts to work and this engine starts from a low 2000 rpm which is great for negotiating traffic in town. The engine is smooth and sounds pleasant, pulling without complaint from about 1500 rpm and then really coming to life. Moving the shift lever over to the left into its manual gate gives the ability to lock in one of eight preset ratios, allowing you to keep the turbo on the boil and deliver on turbocharging’s big promise of better performance than larger, naturally aspirated engines. Another benefit, this for the economy minded – a rapidly increasing number these days – is an Eco mode to make sure you get full value from your petrol purchases. Plus the engine is quite content on regular unleaded petrol – another saving! The new, longer Eclipse Cross is clever in terms of seating space and cargo-carrying practicality. The 60/40 split-folding rear seat slides about 20 cm forward and back to make space between rear legroom and luggage capacity, and the rear seat back is adjustable. Mitsubishi with the Eclipse Cross has made a strong commitment to its future with a sharp focus on providing excellent quality and value for money, both at point of sale and over the life of the car.
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2022
PILOT SUV TECHSPEC ENGINE 3.5 litre V6 24-valve SOHC iVTEC + VCM MAX POWER 280 hp (209kW) @ 6,000 rpm MAX TORQUE 355 Nm (262 lb-ft) @ 4,700 rpm TRANSMISSION Nine-speed automatic; 4WD (fourwheel drive) or 2WD EXTERIOR The updated styling is both rugged and refined that represents the modern family SUV; the front grille is black and bold on top models, with aggressive chrome accents on others; LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) standard in all grades; 18" or 20" alloy wheels look great INTERIOR The luxurious Pilot is spacious and practical with familyfriendly options such as a DVD entertainment system; two USB outlets, two 12-volt outlets and wireless charging up front; another two USB ports, as well as a 3-pin plug located on back of the centre console; eight seats in three rows; easy-to-use climate controls; bright, colourful and clear dashboard dials and gauges, and lots of cupholders; high seating position gives a commanding, panoramic view, while large windows give best-in-class visibility; a cavernous cargo area and lots of useful storage spaces SAFETY/SECURITY ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Traction Control System, Brake Assist, Traction Management takes care of all terrains, including thick sand; now with Honda Sensing providing forward collision mitigation with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning with lane keep assist; adaptive cruise control; blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert; famous Honda extra-strong ACE body structure Collision Mitigation Braking System
Visit the Honda showroom on Khalifa Street, near TV Intersection. Staff will explain all, and arrange a test drive of the new Pilot or any of the stylish new Honda SUVs, sedans and crossovers. Call 800 8123 QATAR MOTORING E-GUIDE ©
The Honda Pilot is a joy to drive! It's always been up there as perhaps the best large SUV, indeed almost a 'can't-go-wrong' option where its combination of a roomy, well-appointed interior, strong engine, and pleasant handling made it appealing to families. The latest model has made this option even stronger! The Pilot rides softly, and the kilometres pass by in comfort. Its steering is light and crisp with precise self-centring, making it very pleasant, enjoyable even, to drive down a twisty road, or a narrow street in traffic. It has more than 7" (18.5 cm) of ground clearance which help it handle rough roads and sandy beaches just fine. In fact, with its Intelligent Traction Management, the Pilot can tackle any terrain in Qatar, even thick sand. The Pilot has a great engine; power comes on instantly and smoothly, no 'turbo-lag' here! It has power to spare, whenever you need it and smooth powerful braking to match. All Pilots now come standard with an 8-inch Display Audio system. The new infotainment interface looks sharp, is incredibly responsive and delivers wonderful sound. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a Wi-Fi hotspot for up to seven devices are also included, and a good feature is the return of a physical volume knob. In the age of touchscreens, Honda recognised that many people like a physical volume knob when driving; it's a simple thing but it makes driving less stressful and that's important. Another stress-reducing feature is the remote engine start that lets you start the engine from a distance, enabling climate control system to regulate cabin temperature to ensure maximum comfort before you get in. And when you walk away, it locks itself. The Hands-Free Access Power Tailgate allows you to load and unload cargo with the remote key fob in your pocket or handbag. Simply kick under the rear bumper and the tailgate opens without the need to use your hands. The updates to the latest Honda Pilot make this popular three-row SUV even better. Now with sleek good looks both inside and out, an improved technology menu and smoother driving, the Pilot is among the most complete competitors in the segment today. With the Pilot, the modern family SUV is reaching new heights. The new exterior is designed to turn heads, matched by an interior that’s totally at home in the digital age.
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EXPERIENCE THE GRAND LIFESTYLE
Powerful V6 engine with 9-speed automatic transmission
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8-inch Touch-screen Display Audio
HONDAQATAR
www.honda.qa
10.2 inch Rear Entertainment System
Al Mirqab Complex 1, Khalifa Street, Near National Mosque and TV R/A
Multi-angle Rear View Camera
Open from Saturday to Thursday: From 8 am to 8 pm
©
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8008 123
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2022
MG GT TECHSPEC
ENGINE 1.5 litre Turbo MAX POWER 173 hp (172 kW) @ 5,600 rpm TORQUE 275 Nm (265 lb-ft) from 1,750 rpm ACCELERATION 0 – 100 kph in only 8 seconds TRANSMISSION Seven-speed iCVT automatic EXTERIOR So distinctive in the all-new MG GT is the swooping bonnet and slim headlights aside the large black grille; futuristic wheel and grills designs; wide stance and racing silhouette of a fastback; stunning aerodynamic body lines; youthful paint colours INTERIOR Welcome to your padded luxurious studio with sculpted and supportive sports seats and wheel, top quality materials and the engaging desktop of two large screens, chiselled shapes and a prominent, almost playful hexagonal or honeycomb patterned fascia. I enjoyed the power of ultramodern technology, yet so easy to use that it becomes almost playful. Yes, it’s just a most attractive, comfortable, quality environment to make a sporty yet serene experience SAFETY/SECURITY High-strength steel cage; side chest airbags give more protection against impacts; rear parking sensors, rearview camera; 360 degree parking view gives assurance when reversing and manoeuvring; tyre pressure monitoring system; forward collision warning assist, lane departure warning system all help to make driving your new MG GT less stressful Warranty: six years or 200,000 km coverage
Visit Auto Class Cars showroom on Salwa Road. They offer very competitive prices and can arrange a test drive of the new MG GT or any of the range of sleek and sporty MG cars and SUVs. Call 4040 1444 QATAR MOTORING E-GUIDE ©
MG is on a roll, creating a new motoring success story: introducing the all-new MG GT, a beautiful sports sedan, to expand their range of SUVs and sedans, and it could indeed liven up your life! MG’s strong sales in the Gulf and worldwide is mainly down to its extremely attractive range of compact sporty and large SUVs, in addition to the economical, spacious and comfortable sedans. ‘Attractive’ in this case means not only undoubted good looks, but also superb quality and comfort, plus the performance and, last but not least, the competitive prices. And so many people agree! MG is adding variety to its lineup with the allnew MG GT, and this beauty is a sleek, muscular fastback sports sedan. The GT is ready to ignite your passions with many youthful new features, a smart interactive infotainment system with two large crystal-clear touchscreens and, as befits its GT name, sparkling, dynamic performance enjoyed in luxurious comfort. Maybe it was the bright yellow colour, but this coupé-like MG is a delight to behold, to enjoy and to drive. The massive front ‘flaming’ grille and air intakes, the muscular shoulder line, the compact rear spoiler, they all scream sports and performance. The turbo-charged engine, together with the sports-tuned chassis and the XDS dynamic control system, will all take you to your sports car ’nirvana’. To emphasise, and it has to be said again, the level of quality of the beautiful MG two-tone and double-stitched leather seats and all-round trim materials was until recently only to be found on some very expensive cars… The same revolution applies to the level of technology employed by MG for both the safety systems and the infotainment connectivity. As easy as your phone. An MG and a GT should deliver smooth, sporty performance and the all-new MG-GT doesn’t disappoint. From the moment you press the button to fire the engine you’ll be impressed. Apart from the responsive standing start, the most useful asset is the ability while cruising slowly, say around 40–50 kph, then to accelerate quickly to say around 80 or 100 kph. The MG GT is excellent here and it is very useful in escaping from heavy and slower traffic situations. Yes, a really enjoyable and luxurious drive – MG GT.
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Service Centres
Service Centres
• • • • • •
Auto Class Cars Industrial Area, Street 10 4489 1666 mg-qa.com
Domasco Industrial Area, Street 10 (Servicing) Street 43 (Body Shop) Also at Salwa Road, Al Shamal Road, Al Khor 4424 6700, Toll free 8008 123 domasco.com honda-mideast.com/en-qa
Qatar Automobiles Company Industrial Area, Street 10 4460 1995 mitsubishiqatar.com
Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co. Industrial Area, Street 10 Also Al Shamal Rd, Salwa Rd, Al Wakra 4460 0167 nissanqatar.com
Domasco Industrial Area Street 10 (Servicing) Street 43 (Body Shop) 4424 6735, Toll free 8008 123 domasco.com
Domasco Industrial Area Street 10 (Servicing) Street 43 (Body Shop) 4424 6731, Toll free 8008 123 domasco.com, volvocars.com/en-qa
Bentley 4411 1102/08 BMW, MINI 4406 5555 • Cadillac, GMC, Subaru 4455 8000 4459 9777 Chevrolet 8000 100 • Ford, Lincoln 4448 9922 • Hyundai, Genesis 8000 231 • Infiniti 4460 0167 Jaguar 4440 8490 • KIA 4460 0081 • Lamborghini 4411 1102 • Land Rover 4460 1100 Maserati 800 0003 • Maxus 4040 1444 • McLaren 4411 1102 • Mercedes-Benz 4458 7777 Peugeot 4448 9053 • Porsche 4459 9777 • Skoda 4499 1000 • Suzuki 4462 2067 Toyota 4452 8777 • Volkswagen 4445 2383
QATAR MOTORING E-GUIDE ©
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Motoring Essentials
Some national driving licences are recognised as valid by Qatar and you need only take an eye test before you are issued with a valid Qatari licence and you are set to go. The police have offices in all the driving schools; you can also take your eye test there. In an effort to reduce traffic congestion, certain professions (approximately 240) will preclude you from gaining a licence. However, if you have the personal sponsorship of a Qatari national, or your spouse, then your profession is not important. Holders of driving licences from some countries, eg the UK, France, Turkey, South Korea and Malaysia, can get a Qatari driving licence without a test. Take your Residence Card and original driving licence to the Traffic Department headquarters at Khalifa Street, Madinat Khalifa. Drivers from other countries will need to enquire at the Traffic Department to check the validity of that home country's licence. Open daily (except Friday) 7 am – 11 am/4 pm – 7 pm. For more information, visit Hukoomi at gov.qa International licences You are allowed to drive with your national driving licence (if it is recognised by the State of Qatar) for one week only (seven days from arrival). You can alternatively use an international driving licence for up to six months, after which it is
marhaba.qa
compulsory to have a valid Qatari licence. To use an international driving permit issued by your country of origin, you must also hold a valid driving licence that is recognised by the State of Qatar. Temporary Qatari licences Residents or visitors who wish to drive for more than one week will need a temporary licence.
Motoring Essentials
Obtaining a Qatari Driving Licence New residents wishing to drive here need a Qatari driving licence. The procedure is simple: go to one of the registered driving schools in Doha and complete all the paperwork and receive instruction, if necessary, in the same place. Fees: Vehicles QAR250, motorcycles QAR150, valid for five years, for first time applications/renewals/replacements.
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Apply in person at the Traffic Police office in one of the driving schools within seven days of your arrival in Qatar. You will need your valid national driving licence and passport along with copies, and three passport-size photographs with a white background. If you need to wear glasses while driving you must be wearing glasses in the photos. Fees: QAR10 for the card, QAR150 for the application. You will also need to take an eye test, usually available at the driving school, and you may have to do a half course. Temporary Qatari driving licences are valid for three months, but may be extended on application. International and temporary licence holders are restricted to driving rental cars only. Driving without a licence of any kind is a criminal offence. Converting a non-approved licence If your home country's licence is not considered valid by the authorities you will have to take a driving test. For those applying for a driving licence for the first time, as well as those who have to take a test: • The minimum age for learning to drive is 18 for light vehicles and motorcycles, 21 for heavy vehicles. • You will need: four passport-size photos (with a white background), valid Qatar ID, an eye test certificate, and a copy of your sponsor company ID, plus a letter of permission from your sponsor.
Need assistance after a car accident? Stranded in the desert? Call 999 (Police | Ambulance | Fire) ©
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marhaba.qa This includes female applicants sponsored by their husbands/men sponsored by their wives. This step can now be done online using the Metrash2 app. Check up to date requirements when applying at the driving school.
Motoring Essentials
• Complete an application form at a driving school (see Useful Numbers in this section). • If you are learning to drive for the first time, a full driving course will cost around QAR3,500. A learner must have had at least 15 hours of theoretical classes and a minimum of 35 hours of driving lessons. • Drivers who have licences which cannot be directly changed to a Qatari licence can choose from a 'half course' or a refresher course customised to your needs. • There are separate courses for heavy duty vehicles and for motorcycles. • There is a charge of QAR50 per test. • Licences are for manual or automatic cars. If you hold a manual licence you may drive an automatic, but not vice versa. • There is a unified driving curriculum and contract to be used by all driving schools.
Licence Renewals A driving licence may be renewed six months prior to or upon its expiry date. Renewal is easy and can be processed through Hukoomi at gov.qa, or the Metrash2 app. Fees: QAR250 (valid for five years), plus QAR20 for delivery, if choosing to have the new licence delivered to you by QPost. You must disclose any changes to your health that may affect your ability to drive since your last licence application. If, for example, you have been prescribed glasses, you should apply through the Traffic Department to retake the eye test.
QATAR MOTORING E-GUIDE ©
International Driving Licences To obtain an international driving licence you must be in possession of a valid Qatari driving licence. Take this along with your passport, two passportsize photos and QAR150 to any travel agency or driving school.
The Driving Test To get your driving licence, you will have to pass the following tests: Theory: A digital test; applicants need at least 18 correct from the 20 multiple-choice questions, many of which deal with traffic laws. Parking: Two sections – reverse test and vehicle parking. The results are given immediately. The Traffic Department has completely automated these two parking tests, to prevent complaints of unfairness in evaluation from trainees. It is based on land sensors and surveillance cameras used inside and outside the vehicle. Road test: Once you pass your theory and parking tests, your examiner will take you out of the yard testing grounds onto the real road to test your proficiency. You may also be asked to do a hillstart before leaving the yard. In order to develop the highest standards of transparency and eliminate complaints from trainees who fail driving tests, smart cars have been introduced in some driving schools. Once you have passed your driving test, your driving licence will be issued while you wait. The vehicle licence fee for non-Qataris is QAR250, valid for five years. All transactions at the Traffic Department must be paid for using a credit/debit card, or the Ministry of Interior eCASH card (see Day to Day Qatar in the Living in Qatar section for more information about eCASH cards).
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marhaba.qa Getting Your Car or Motorcycle Tested for a Road Permit
Smartphone users can send photos of traffic violators directly to authorities via Metrash 2. To use, click on ‘Communicate with us’ and 'Contact us'. Enable GPS on your phone, select ‘Take photo’, write your comments and send.
Driving Conditions
The second five-year plan (2018–2022) was launched buoyed by the successful conclusion of the first five-year plan (2013–2017) of the Strategy, which saw the number of deaths on the roads reduced from 235 in 2013 to 178 in 2016. New private vehicles are issued with a registration valid for three years, known as istimara. Vehicles more than three years old must pass an annual inspection before the Traffic Department will renew the road permit. Mandatory periodical vehicle inspections for all applicable vehicles must be done at a Fahes testing site. For a map of stations, details of how to prepare the vehicle and inspection tips visit fahes.com.qa, call 800 3835, 4021 7777 Timings: Sunday to Thursday 6 am – 6 pm (gate closes at 5:45 pm); 8 am – noon is the busiest period. Bookings for inspection at Wadi Al Banat and Mesaimeer stations must be made via the app. Fees: Cars QAR150, motorcycles QAR100, by card only. Remember to take the expiring istimara.
The main causes of road accidents continue to be reckless and negligent driving, dangerous overtaking, illogical lane changing (especially at intersections), and using the phone while driving.
Motoring Essentials
Traffic Law No 19 of 2007 introduced a system of tough penalties for traffic offences. They include points and fines for speeding, parking violations and using a hand‑held phone while driving. These, and other measures for road traffic safety, are a priority for the government as part of Qatar National Road Safety Strategy 2013–2022.
Road rage is a constant in Qatar. Motorists are warned to be aware of drivers ‘tailgating’ and flashing their lights to force the driver ahead to move out of the way, even if there is no space to safely move into. Drivers change lanes without signalling and often weave through the traffic, continuously changing lanes at high speed. You may experience bullying tactics including overtaking from the right and then slowing down as a 'punishment' to the driver who failed to move out of the way. In any of these situations, be aware of your own safety.
Insurance: Renew prior to inspection, as there must be a full year's insurance on the vehicle before taking it for the istimara.
Metrash 2 Service Metrash is a free electronic service provided by the Ministry of Interior (MoI). Residents of Qatar can register to receive an SMS alerting them to traffic violations, driving licence expiry, car registration expiry, and inspection pass/fail. Under Metrash 2, citizens and residents can access a large number of MoI services, including traffic. The mobile phone number must be registered under the applicant’s name. Smartphone users can download Metrash 2 on the App Store and Play Store, and the service can be activated via SMS or a Self Service Kiosk. For assistance call 234 2000, visit moi.gov.qa
The General Directorate of Traffic has new patrol vehicles equipped with the latest camera sensors to detect violations and identify the vehicles and motorists involved. ©
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marhaba.qa Traffic lights flash on green before changing to amber and red. At the few roundabouts remaining in the country, signals will often flash amber for a short period of time to allow the flow of traffic – drivers should only pull out if it is safe to do so.
Motoring Essentials
Cameras and radars are installed at intersections to catch those who race through red lights. The installation of many more is planned, including sophisticated advanced radar systems which allow for the recording of accidents and booking of reckless drivers. The police have a number of cars fitted with mobile speed radars – difficult for motorists to locate, unlike permanent roadside speed radars. In addition to speeding, the radars can also detect seatbelt violations, overtaking from the wrong side, and illegal usage of mobile phones. The Ministry of Interior stresses that its aim in deploying these mobile radars is to reform bad driving practices, thereby saving lives, and not simply to punish offenders.
Violations Traffic Law No 19 of 2007 introduced a demerit point system which helps to ensure safe driving (by curbing reckless driving) and to reduce traffic related accidents, deaths and casualties. Drivers convicted of certain driving-related offences will have what are termed 'black points' recorded on their records. The Ministry's website moi.gov.qa lists the violations, which include paperwork and registration offences, driving offences, wrongful parking or obstruction, and many dealing with commercial vehicles.
• Driving in the wrong (opposite) direction – QAR6,000 fine, 6 points • Driver and/or front seat passenger not wearing seatbelts – QAR500 fine • Using/holding a mobile phone/other device while driving – QAR500 fine • Allowing children under 10 to occupy front seats – QAR500 fine • Exceeding the maximum speed limit – QAR500– 1,000 fine, 4 points • Obstructing traffic at intersections – QAR500 fine, 3 points • Parking/waiting at places reserved for persons with special needs – QAR300 fine, 3 points • Driving a vehicle without carrying driving licence – QAR500 fine, 1 point • Driving a vehicle without a valid permit (istimara) – QAR1,500 fine • Driving a vehicle without number plates – QAR3,000 fine, 3 points • Not moving vehicle to nearest safe area in case of an accident not involving injury, or not informing police immediately – QAR1,000 fine, 3 points • Applying tint to glass or windows of vehicle without permission – QAR1,000 To check violations registered to your vehicle, visit moi.gov.qa, or receive SMS alerts via Metrash2.
Some of the fines are draconian, like running a red traffic light. However, in some cases, if you pay within a month you may get a 50% discount – you can either visit the Traffic Department or use the Metrash2 app to check if this is applicable. The points system means that your licence can be suspended or revoked, depending on the number of points accrued. In this situation, a new driving licence may be issued only after passing a new driving test after a minimum three months of suspension. Always carry your driving licence and passport copy/Qatar ID with you while driving, as well as the vehicle registration, insurance documents, and car rental agreement (as appropriate). Some of the more common violations include: • Running a red light – QAR6,000 fine, 7 points QATAR MOTORING E-GUIDE ©
There is a zero-tolerance policy on drink driving in Qatar – the legal limit is 0 mg. Drivers who are found to have alcohol in their system when breathalysed face fines of between QAR10,000 and QAR50,000, with a chance of a jail sentence and deportation.
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Traffic Accidents Minor accidents If you are involved in a minor traffic accident within Doha city limits, you must move the vehicles involved to a safe place. Get the information of the driver of the other vehicle(s), ie name, ID number, car registration number, insurance details and mobile number, and take photos if necessary.
Breakdown cover may already be included on some insurance policies or can be added at an extra cost. Check with your insurance company. See the list of insurance companies in Day to Day Qatar in the Living in Qatar section.
Weather Conditions
Motoring Essentials
Drivers can avoid a trip to the Traffic Department by reporting the incident via the Metrash2 app. Any of the car owners involved can report the accident, giving their Qatar ID numbers, car registration numbers, and photos of the cars involved. Alternatively drivers can visit one of five traffic investigation offices at insurance companies.
If your car is in the garage for more than 15 days after an accident it is mandatory for insurance companies to provide a substitute car; this rule only applies to those cars waiting for genuine imported parts.
Dust storms occur due to shamal, dust-laden winds that can suddenly appear between March and August. They can compromise visibility on the roads, making driving extremely hazardous. Switch on dipped headlights – not fog or hazard lights – and drive slowly, using the centre line or the edge of the road as a guide. Fog may occur between November and January and can drastically reduce visibility. Slow down and use dipped headlights and fog lights, if necessary. Rain and thunderstorms can happen during the winter months, especially December and January. Downpours may limit visibility, cause flooding on some roads, and make sandy areas muddy. Be especially vigilant during the first rainfalls of the season as any oil spills on the road make driving particularly treacherous. Beware of drivers using their hazard lights while driving in adverse weather conditions.
Petrol Stations and Other Services
Car Insurance Be aware that the terms and conditions of Comprehensive and Third Party insurance policies vary depending on the insurance company and underwriter, and that it is the car that is covered, not the driver – anyone with a valid Qatar driving licence can then drive the vehicle. Check the policy to ensure you are sufficiently covered in the event of an accident.
In addition to providing fuel, WOQOD stations offer a wide range of services like car washing, oil change, and tyre checks/purchases. There is usually a convenience store (Sidra), ATM, Ooredoo payment machine, and fast food. Stations now cover the country, and you can pay for fuel and services by card or cash. A few non-WOQOD stations may only provide fuel, but other small independent companies can easily be found for other services such as checking tyre pressure, repairing tyres (aptly named 'punctury'), oil and water levels, and car wash facilities. m
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Checked & Updated June 2022
Major accidents If anyone is injured, none of the vehicles can be moved and the police must be notified immediately (dial 999). You will be required to report to the relevant traffic department with your documentation – you will be advised which one by the attending patrol officers.
Qatar Fuel, also known as WOQOD, releases the fuel prices each month, as determined by QatarEnergy.
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FEATURE
Sila: Connecting Transport to One Network By Ola Diab Sila is a new app, aiming to bring together the country’s transport modes into one network.
G
etting around Qatar has become almost seamless in recent years. It will soon be a lot easier once most of the road infrastructure is complete and even easier with the new app, Sila, an integrated public transport system that makes planning your journey and payment a whole lot smarter. The Ministry of Transport recently unveiled Sila, a brand that brings together Qatar’s transport modes into one integrated network, in collaboration with transport providers such as Qatar Railways Company (Qatar Rail), Mowasalat (Karwa), Qatar Foundation and Msheireb Properties. By bringing together Qatar’s transport services, Sila aims to improve the accessibility of the country’s transport network. Sila, which means ‘connection’ in Arabic, currently includes the metro, bus, taxi and tram networks. It includes a series of projects and initiatives designed to give people the smartest choices for travel, including contactless payment, integrated payment through the Sila card, and the Sila journey planning app and website. Through Sila, the Ministry of Transport aims to bring together the means of transportation operating in Qatar under one umbrella, and to improve and ease the use of the public transport network, in order
QATAR MOTORING E-GUIDE ©
to enhance the transportation process for citizens, residents and visitors. In the near future, it will activate the trip planning feature on the Sila app and its website, and this feature will allow transportation users to plan their trips in an integrated way. With Sila, users can benefit from real-time navigation. It enables transportation users to look for the best routes and means of transportation that can be used and combined to reach their desired destination. The use of the Sila app and website also provides access to information on public transportation, parking and station locations, general layout of stations, flight schedules and routes. Sila also helps users explore Qatar more – stop to see attractions and enjoy their free time. Other initiatives – which will be unveiled in the near future – include integrated and contactless payment methods, introducing new services and transport modes, and promoting the transport network through public awareness and marketing initiatives to reach a wider audience within Qatar. For more information, find Sila’s social media pages: Facebook: @silaqatar Instagram: @sila_qatar Twitter: @sila_qatar m Website: sila.motc.gov.qa
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EXPLORE ISTANBUL DURING YOUR LAYOVER Free touristanbul service in Istanbul for international transfer passengers who have 6-24 hours of layover time at Istanbul Airport
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FEATURE
Scooting Around Qatar By Ola Diab Micro-mobility solutions are now available to commuters in Qatar with the increase of e-scooter sharing services in the country.
F
inding transportation in Qatar is not a task. Taxis, limousines, buses, trams and now the metro are different forms of public transportation available in the country. Following the global growth of electric scooters as a micro-mobility solution, there are now e-scooters as well. E-scooters typically have two wheels, a handlebar for steering, a platform to stand on (deck), a stem, brakes, a battery, lights and a small electric motor. This personal mobility device is also typically foldable, making it a more portable option than bicycles. There are now electric scooter-sharing schemes, which require periodic charging. Since late 2020, Qatar has introduced many electric scooter-sharing schemes where dockless e-scooters can be rented per minute on-demand for short trips by using e-scooter rental apps. E-scooters can be mostly found in the West Bay, Al Dafna and Al Waab at metro stations and popular shopping streets.
QATAR MOTORING E-GUIDE ©
Vodafone Qatar is supporting Loop Mobility, with the Internet of Things (IoT) to power its smart scooter sharing service.
Qatar's e-scooter rental apps: Loop Mobility loopmobility.co Falcon Ride falconride.io wer2 wer2.com Fenix fenix.life To use an e-scooter, you’ll need to install the e-scooter rental app of your choice, which will require you to sign up for an account using your email address and a scanned copy of your QID. Through the app, you’ll be able to locate the nearest scooters available through GPS technology. Once you reach the scooter, just scan the QR code and pay through the app to be able to use it. You can then hop on the scooter, put on your helmet, and ride to your destination. It will cost a minimum of QAR2 to unlock an e-scooter followed by a certain charge of per minute. Loop users can pay using their debit or credit card. Users must have a QID. Riders are required to use a helmet and abide by the road safety regulations. m
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Al Sailiya Masaken Al Sailiya
Ras Laffan, Al Khor, Lusail City, Al Wajba, Dukhan Road
D M A
Salwa Road
5 Saudi Arabia Bu Samra Hilton Salwa Beach Resort Umm Bab Al Sheehaniya
Mesaieed Interchange
Al Sailiya Interchange
EXIT 24
EXIT 17
INDUSTRIAL AREA
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Energ
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Industrial Health Center
WOQOD LPG Plant
Perimeter Wall
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WOQOD QBIC
Street M
Street J
Amiantit Qatar Pepsi Co
Street 1
Styro
Street 2
Industry Street Street 4
CMC
Al Hodaifi Cables
Dallah
Al Manjara Joinery
Elite Paper Recycling
Street 5
Itag Int’l
Al Muftah Carpentry
Street 5
Future Pipe Ind
Street S Street 6
Street 7
Street 8
Street 9
Street 10
Min of Commerce & Industry
Street 3
Medical Commission Unit
Street 41 Growtech
QNPP Street M
Perimeter Wall
G Ring Road
Street 1
Energy Street
Al Majd Orbital Road
Gulf Com
VW Audi Q-Auto
Al Andalus Wood Factory
Street W
G Ring R
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Mesaieed Hamad Port Al Wakra Al Wukair
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LOGISTICS VILLAGE QATAR (LVQ)
Mosque
Mowasalat HQ
Water Tower
Car Service Centre
Petrol Station
New Interchange
Qatar Airways
Bank
Hospital Primary Health Center Non-Stop Super Highway
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Education City/Qatar Foundation Aspire Zone, Aspire Park Al Waab Street Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club
Al Furousiya Street
Salwa Road Bu Sidra Interchange
Khaled Bin Ahmed Interchange (was Industrial Interchange)
Ain Khaled St
EXIT 15
Radisson Blu Junction Al Asiri Interchange
Street 1 Jaguar Land Rover
Street 5
Street 8
MANNAI
NISSAN INFINITI DOMASCO
AUTO
Labour Dept Office
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• Industrial Services Centre • Finger Printing For Companies • Traffic Investigation Division
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Street 23
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Street 23
Ras Al Mahref St
Al Wakalat St
Al Karaiat St
Al Attiyah Souq
Al Manaier St
Street 18
Markaz Tableegh
QNAV
Street 16
Ain Khaled
WOQOD
PORSCHE
Al Binaa St
NATIONAL
Khaled Bin Ahmed St
CAT
Street 15
Hempel
mA
Street 24
FAHES Vehicle Inspection
Stree
t 33
Al Kasarat Street
PORSCHE
HYUNDAI
Street 27
Um
JAIDAH GROUP
Street 27
51
MITSUBISHI MG
Street 10
Street 15
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ABDULGHANI
Street 6
S treet C ar M ark et
Gulf Warehousing Company GWC
Stre
NBK
Street 4
East Industrial Street
Al Inshaat St
RENAULT Street 10
B
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Street 3
Al Kasarat St
Colour Correction Al Inshaat St
Al Imran St
West Industrial Street
Camp
National Car Rental
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Street 2
KIA
Street 31
Hazm Mebaireek General Hospitals Hamad Industrial Hospital
Street 559
Street 33
BARWA COMMERCIAL AVENUE
Industrial Area Road East Street 33 I/C
BARWA
Umm Al Seneem I/C Rawdat Al Khail St Mesaimeer
Street 37 Street 38
Khaled Cement Works
Street 39
Al Wraq
Cricket Stadium
Al Karajat St
Tadmur
Alcat Street 41
Gulf Warehousing Company – GWC
Khaled Cement Works
Street 43
Street 43
Al Kasarat Street
West Industrial Street
Street 47
DOMASCO
Madina
Street 45
Qatar Int’l Safety Centre Street 47 Street 48
Volvo JMC Trucks
East Industrial Street
Street 41
Grand Mall
Workshops Parking
New Staff Accomodation
QCON
Rotomould
Street 51
ad
QRC - Qatar Racing Club
Street 52 Vehicle Seizure Section
G Ring R
Hamad International Airport (HIA) Airport Street Al Wakra Road
oad Aba Saleel I/C
Hamad Port Mesaieed Road
Hamad Po rt Rd
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Barwa Al Baraha Truck Parking
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