Motoring in Qatar: Spring/Summer 2023

Motoring in Qatar

Main Car Showrooms

Useful Numbers

Motoring Reviews

Feature – Green Transport

marhaba.qa

Kahramaa, WOQOD and Mowasalat are introducing more environmentally friendly transportation options across the country.

Motoring Motoring

Mitsubishi Outlander

Service Centres

Motoring Essentials

• 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

GAC EMPOW

• Petrol Stations and Other Services

Map of Industrial Area

The locations of major service centres and other entities

MG ONE

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.

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Education City (EC)

1. Academic Bridge Program (ABP)

2. Al Shaqab

Al Gharrafa Park

EMBASSY LOCATIONS

Kuwait C4

KyrgyzRep C3

Lebanon B4

Liberia C4

Libya B3

Malaysia C4

Mali B4

Mauritania C4

Mexico C4

Moldova B4

Morocco C4

Nepal E3

Netherlands C4

Niger C3

Nigeria C4

NorthMacedonia C4

Bulgaria B3

BurkinaFaso B3

Canada C4

C.AfricanRep B3

Chile C4

China B3

CostaRica C3

Croatia B3

Cuba B3

Cyprus C4

Djibouti B4

Dom.Rep. B3

Ecuador B4

ElSalvador B4

Eritrea E4

Eswatini B4

Ethiopia B4

France C4

Gambia E4

Georgia C4

Germany C4

Ghana B3

Greece B4

Hungary B3

India C4

Indonesia D3

Iran C4

Iraq C4

Italy C4

IvoryCoast B4

Japan B4

Jordan C4

Kazakhstan B3

Kenya B3

Korea (S) B4

Kosovo C4

Oman B4

Pakistan C4

Palestine C4

Panama B4

Paraguay B4

Peru C3

Philippines B3

Poland B4

Portugal C4

Romania C4

Russia B4

Senegal C3

Serbia B3

Singapore B4

Somalia C4

SouthAfrica B3

Spain B4

SriLanka E4

Sudan B4

Sweden C4

Switzerland B3

Syria C4

Tajikistan C3

Tanzania C4

Thailand C4

Tunisia C4

Turkiye B4

Uganda B3

Ukraine B3

UnitedKingdom C4

UnitedStates ofAmerica C3

Uruguay C3

Venezuela B4

Vietnam B3

The Pearl Island

Raffles and Fairmont Hotels are housed in the iconic Katara Towers

Al Fardan Tower Tornado Tower Palm Tower B

West BeachBay

B12 Beach Club Doha Sands

Green Transport

By Ola Diab

Kahramaa, WOQOD and Mowasalat are introducing more environmentally friendly transportation across the country.

Following an agreement in January 2023 between Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (Kahramaa) and Qatar Fuel (WOQOD), direct current (DC) power fast charging units will be installed at all WOQOD petrol stations operating across the country within two years.

This follows a contract Kahramaa and WOQOD signed in November 2022 for the provision, installation, and maintenance of 37 DC fast charging units for electric vehicles (EV) at WOQOD petrol stations. Kahramaa has already started putting in EV charging stations at the WOQOD petrol stations in Bu Samra.

This year, 150 charging stations will be installed in WOQOD petrol stations across the country to encourage more environmentally friendly transportation.

This initiative comes within Qatar National Vision 2030 which aims to transform Qatar into a developed country that is able to achieve sustainable development, by enhancing the diversified economy that depends on reducing the reliance on hydrocarbons. Its investment is in the private sector which must be directed towards smart knowledge and technology.

There are two kinds of 'fuels' that can be used in electric vehicles: alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) power. The power that comes from the

grid is always AC. However, batteries, like the one in an EV, can only store power as DC. That's why most electronic devices have a converter built into the plug. Every time you are charging a device such as your smartphone, the plug is actually converting AC power to DC.

DC fast charging bypasses all of the limitations of the on-board charger and required conversion, instead providing DC power directly to the battery – charging speed has the potential to be greatly increased. Charging times are dependent on the battery size, the output of the dispenser and other factors, but many vehicles are capable of getting an 80% charge in about or under an hour using most currently available DC fast chargers.

DC fast charging is essential for high mileage/ long distance driving and large fleets. The quick turnaround enables drivers to recharge during their day or on a small break as opposed to being plugged in overnight, or for many hours, for a full charge.

Lusail Bus Depot

The world’s largest electric bus depot, the Lusail Bus Depot, was inaugurated in October 2022.

Located in Lusail City, the Lusail Bus Depot has set a record in the Guinness World Records Book as the largest electric bus depot with a capacity of 478 bus bays.

In addition to the nearly 500 bus bays, the depot has 248 sets of charging equipment to accommodate 1,002 Chinese-made Yutong buses. The vehicles are fitted with 350 kilowatt-hour (kWh) lithium batteries and have a range of 200 km. The technical infrastructure was supplied by Swiss company ABB.

The first in the Middle East to rely on solar power, the depot also features approximately 11,000 PV solar panels covering a total area of over 25,000 sq m to generate 4 megawatts of power to feed the depot’s buildings with the required power.

In addition, according to Minister of Transport

HE Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti, Qatar will be the first country in the world using a huge public transportation powered by clean energy. ‘We have clean energy of all types. Gas is clean energy 100%, but we opted to diversify the sources of energy, so this depot, equipped to generate 4 megawatts of solar power, has become the largest of this kind in the world,’ he said.

The depot was developed in an area of more than 400,000 sq m as part of the Ministry of Transport’s Public Bus Infrastructure Programme. It consists of 24 multipurpose buildings, in addition to staff accommodation buildings for 1,400 people, service and recreational facilities, green spaces, substations and bus bays.

The facilities are being designed in accordance with Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS), the first performance-based system in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, developed for rating green buildings and infrastructures. The bus depots and stations have important design and operational considerations with three-star environmental quality for energy saving and environmental conservation.

Mowasalat e-buses

Approximately 900 Mowasalat (Karwa) electric buses (e-buses) were used to ferry spectators between stadiums during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, which took place from 20 November to 18 December 2022. A large number of the e-buses are now being used to operate local routes.

According to Mowasalat, the official transportation provider in Qatar, all Metrolink services for the Doha Metro Gold Line are now using e-buses.

In line with Mowasalat’s values and Qatar’s mission for a green road transportation system, the e-buses are completely zero-emission and also have near-zero noise generation. The fleet is fully customised to the environment of Qatar, and comprises minibuses and medium-sized buses with battery capacities of 163kWh and 211kWh. The entire fleet is equipped with 360-degree cameras and sensors to ensure drivers get a full view of the vehicle’s surroundings. The buses are highly energy efficient with an inbuilt intelligent energy control system for the batteries to last longer and the interiors of the e-buses come equipped with changeable LED lighting. The e-buses are accessible to passengers with special needs.

The depot has a special zone of 24 bays for the fast charging of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) e-buses, which is one of the newest mobility modes in Qatar. There are at least five bus depots in Qatar, including in Lusail City, Al Wakra, Al Soudan, Education City/Al Rayyan and Industrial Area. At least three of these depots, including the Lusail Bus Depot, are dedicated to the zero emission buses. The Education City/Al Rayyan Bus Depot has space for 390 e-buses and 190 chargers. The bus depots are being set up as part of the Public Bus Infrastructure Programme that MoTC is carrying out in collaboration with Public Works Authority (Ashghal). m

Each bus is also equipped with an alarm system that sends a warning to the driver upon crossing the speed limit, in case a pedestrian crosses the street, and at lane departures. This makes the new fleet completely suitable for residential areas, also in terms of their turning radius and bus lengths.

Qatar has pledged to a completely green bus fleet over the next 10 years. mowasalat.com

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 800 8123 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 800 0505 nissanqatar.com

Domasco

Salwa Road, opposite HSBC

Hours: 8 am – 8 pm, Friday closed 4424 8989, 800 8123 domasco.com

Domasco

Khalifa Street

Hours: 8 am – 8 pm, Friday closed 800 8123 volvocars.com/en-qa, domasco.com

Useful Numbers

EMERGENCIES –

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.

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.

include Al Thumama, Al Wakra, Dukhan, Education City, Industrial Area, Maamoura, Umm Slal, and some insurance companies.

Other breakdown services are available from smaller entities around town – be aware that they may not be insured to provide this service though.

You may have breakdown assistance as part of your insurance policy or be able to add it – check with the insurance company.

ENGINE Powerful 2.5 litres, 16 valves, 4 cylinders

MAX POWER 170 hp (126 kW) @ 6,000 rpm

MAX TORQUE 172 lb-ft (233 Nm) @ 4,000 rpm

TRANSMISSION Advanced Xtronic CVT automatic

EXTERIOR The striking design starts with dramatic styling of the new front grille and distinctive new LED signature headlights, foglights and taillights; powerful, elevated stance; smooth but strong shoulders, roof rails, rear spoiler and attractive alloy wheels all put together a very attractive SUV

INTERIOR With an extra quiet cabin and ample space for three rows of comfortable seats, the new X-Trail provides superior comfort – luxury even – with double stitching on leather seats; controls on the steering wheel means you can control the entire experience without taking your hands off the wheel; full colour display perfect for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; superb Bose sound system; versatile seating; liftgate opens high enough to stand under; the spacious interior maximises room with its flat floor design

SAFETY In addition to front, side and curtain airbags, state-of-the-art Nissan Intelligent Mobility driver assist and safety tech features help keep you out of trouble, like automatic emergency forward braking and pedestrian detection, rear cross traffic alert, intelligent forward collision warning, disc brakes all round; driver attention alert; blind spot intervention and so many more; drive more confidently with lower stress and more security for you and your family

X-TRAIL 7-SEAT SUV

The new Nissan’s presence is signalled by sleek LED headlights and imposing front air vents; ‘boomerang’ design taillights give your new X-Trail an unmistakable signature at night. The tough, yet smooth, all-new X-Trail looks as modern and advanced as the technology behind it, and with its signature Nissan design, like the ‘V motion’ grille, it sits proudly in the family of exciting Nissan SUVs that have proved themselves over many years as favourites in the Qatar market.

You'll find the large and updated display screen great to use; it's intuitive to the touch and allows you to see more of what you want to see. In addition to the large centre screen, drivers will also love the 12.3” digital dashboard, the so-useful 10.8” head-up display, not to mention the wireless phone charging and hands-free power lift gate with motion sensing. Yes, there are three displays: start with the 10.8” Heads Up Display in the upper-left corner, then drop your gaze to the digital dashboard and its 12.3 inches of crystal clear data right behind the steering wheel. A third large 12.3" infotainment screen sits in the centre of the fascia. Together, they offer almost one metre of digital information. And when the day goes dark, the ambient interior lighting highlights the cozy interior refinement. Such ergonomic comfort really helps you enjoy carefree driving. The high driving position, 360° vision and very light and self-centring steering let you more easily take in the streetscape and traffic situations – a great confidence booster and stress reliever. Now, get on the gas, use the paddle shifters, and experience continuous powerful performance – confident cruising on the highway and manoeuvring around city streets is a breeze. You may get complacent enjoying such a beautiful car, but Nissan wants to really look after you: just imagine having an extra pair of eyes looking out for you, checking your blindspot or watching what you can’t see up ahead. What if you had some help when you really needed it? Like an invisible foot on the brakes when traffic suddenly stops. This is Nissan Intelligent Mobility, technology that’s your partner on every drive. Check it out...

Saleh AlHamad AlMana Co will be pleased to arrange a test drive of the new Nissan X-Trail or any of its SUVs, crossovers and cars. Call 4428 3333

TECHSPEC

ENGINE Powerful 2.5 litre 16-valve DOHC MIVEC with electronic direct fuel injection

MAX POWER 181 hp (135 kW) @ 6,000 rpm

MAX TORQUE 245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 3,600 rpm

TRANSMISSION Continuously variable automatic; also with steering wheel paddle gear shift

EXTERIOR The all-new exterior with its flat roofline is stunning; it gives the Outlander a confident, dynamic stance which is underpinned by the new stronger and safer chassis offering enhanced stability and performance; strong yet smooth front grille design; obvious top-quality build; large 20" alloys

INTERIOR Superior quality materials make for a very welcoming environment; there's plenty of space (up to 7 seats); the seats are very comfortable and supportive, trim is upscale and soft to the touch; vision is panoramic; driving and infotainment controls are just right with sensible physical knobs for volume and tuning; large touchscreen is bright and clear (AND there's a HUD!). Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging for phones, charging ports and super 10-speaker sound system – it's all there.

SAFETY/SECURITY Mitsubishi is a leader in safety technology: comprehensive front, side and curtain airbags; forward collision mitigation; blind spot warning; lane departure warning; rear cross traffic alert and many other assistance systems; tyre pressure monitoring system; keyless operation; engine start button; vented disc brakes all round

OUTLANDER SUV

Mitsubishi is one of Japan's most admired companies and has been building tough SUVs and cars for over a century; the brand name and agency QAC are also well liked and respected in Qatar. The market is always evolving – nowadays more and more people want small SUVs as their family vehicle, which is where Mitsubishi excels. The all-new Outlander is a fantastic family SUV and even has three seat rows. It's great to look at and the same applies when you are inside. The quality is obvious both on the outside and the inside – just look at the elegant diamond stitching and feel the interior trim! I feel I'd be proud to own one. The new Outlander drives with a youthful agility and composure; it's enjoyable with the light, nicely weighted steering and a sense of stability and balance which is reassuring on the wide highways. The driving position puts you in command; everything outside is in view and everything inside is to hand. I loved the head-up display (HUD) and the paddle shifters on the steering wheel and you have two large screens, the one directly in front of you focussed on driving data and the one in the centre more on infotainment.

The new, more spacious Outlander is best in class in terms both of seating space and cargo-carrying capability. It's thoroughly modern as regards connectivity with its user-friendly infotainment system and its respectable fuel economy. The new Outlander is right in the middle of the booming market segment for compact SUVs and has better specifications than other big automotive names. It also brings Mitsubishi's reputation for durability and economy; I was certainly reassured by the feeling of well-made quality and being wellplanted safely and securely on the road.

Qatar Automobiles Company (QAC) on Salwa Road offer competitive prices and will arrange a test drive of the new Outlander SUV or any of its SUVs and cars for Marhaba readers and followers. Call 4422 7555

Mitsubishi with the all-new Outlander has made a strong commitment to the future with a sharp focus on providing excellent quality and value for money. It's pleasant to drive, has a top quality finish, has a luxury-esque interior, great (and great sounding) audio system, a wealth of safety features and a large cargo area and/or seven seats. It's a good compact SUV no matter which way you look at it: practicality, pleasure, prestige even!

TECHSPEC

ENGINE Third generation 1.5 litre turbocharged four cylinder DOHC, 16-valve with multi-port injection

TRANSMISSION All-new 7-speed tiptronic automatic

MAX POWER 170 hp (125 kW) @ 5,000 rpm

MAX TORQUE 270 Nm (200 lb-ft) from 1,400 rpm

EXTERIOR Sharp-looking, sleek and slippery, the new Empow cuts through the air with its ultra low drag coefficient of 0.26; smooth body will spark your sporty ambitions as will the amazing front grille design with distinctive air intakes and lights plus sporty back with four exhaust pipes; excellent use of chrome, aluminium and carbon fibre effects all add character and quality; 18" alloy wheels

INTERIOR Slip into the sporty seat, sample the flat bottom steering wheel and enjoy the joystick-style shifter – this is what sports car driving is all about; the phone-centric environment is so cool, so modern, so in-tune with the digital world we live in; not to mention the quality of the supportive seats, the stitching and trim, the use of colour, carbon fibre effect and materials; 7" dash screen and 10.25" touchscreen display; wireless charging; Bluetooth smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay, superior six-speaker stereo system

SAFETY/SECURITY Front, side and curtain airbags, ESP, ABS, EBD; lane departure warning; traffic jam assist; blind spot detection; disc brakes; hill start control; electronic parking brake; tyre pressure monitoring; high-strength steel compartment – so much tech, you have to check it out on Salwa Road

BRAND NEW

EMPOW

First look – fantastic! The new GAC Empow is very cool, very contemporary; clever use of colour, chrome, contrasts, great grille, sleek body – everything says 'speed', 'performance' and 'sporty'. The designers and engineers at GAC are now so skilled and so confident they have produced a trendsetting new car for a new generation. All new cars being released now will have to keep up with this new paradigm or they will risk being left behind and looking out of date and old fashioned.

Those first impressions do not go away: the Empow interior is great to be in, it's stimulating and enjoyable – the driving position, the ergonomic controls, the high tech centre console, the userfriendly screens for information and entertainment, your sporty and very supportive seat, the premium soft-to-the-touch materials, the carbon fibre look, the splashes of bright yellow (both inside and out), yes, this interior is as eye-catching and headturning as the silky, satiny exterior. And it must be said, the green finish – (matte fighter green!) is absolutely gorgeous!

All the above must come through into the driving experience which in my case was more like a sensation! The Empow really goes; it is as fast and performative as it looks. Some drivers like a smooth ride, some like to experience power. Well, the new Empow lets you fully express yourself with its Sport+ mode; that's atop the Sport mode but there's also Comfort and Eco mode for the more conservative. GAC however has another mode for the individualist, the DIY mode, which lets you customise your very own mode. But here's the promise: you're going to enjoy driving the Empow. Superb design and state-of-the-art technology make the Empow a joy – to look at, to sit in and to drive. But, maybe more importantly, they are also at your service in order to protect you and your passengers from any unforeseen situation or unsafe incident. There are too many to go through here, but check them out at GAC on Salwa Road. The all-new Empow is very well built and finished, with new styling and a sporty look. Find out how this beauty is more than just skin-deep.

The GAC showroom is right by the suspension bridge on Salwa Road. Friendly staff will explain all and even arrange a test drive of the Empow or any of the GAC stylish cars and SUVs. Call 4424 8989

TECHSPEC

ENGINE 1.5 litre turbocharged High Efficiency Turbo

MAX POWER 181 hp (135 kW)

TORQUE 285 Nm (265 lb-ft)

PERFORMANCE 0 – 100 kph in around 8.8 secs and a top speed of 195 kph

TRANSMISSION Seven-speed continuously variable transmission

EXTERIOR The new sporty mid-size SUV’s dynamic look is emphasised by a new three-dimension front grill, shifting downwards, flanked by sharplooking LED headlamps. The MG ONE’s athletic look is highlighted with a dual-tone colour scheme, a low and wide stance, sloping roofline, giving it a coupé-like silhouette, split rear protruding lights and a distinctively shaped sport spoiler

INTERIOR Use of sound and light technology creates a high-tech cabin for a new generation of tech-savvy customers; unique surroundtype trip screen, Arkamys sound system, dual-coloured sports seating, and drive by wire gears provide a smart experience for drivers and passengers; aesthetically and ergonomically designed cabin is trimmed with quality materials providing luxurious comfort; plenty of storage spaces, even a wireless phone charger

SAFETY/SECURITY MG cars are renowned for featuring the latest safety technology and the all-new MG ONE is no different; the standard Electronic Stability Program includes eight safety functions with ABS, EBD, CBC, TCS, VDC, HAZ, HHC and BDW improving driving stability in all traffic conditions

ALL-NEW

Auto Class Cars showroom on Salwa Road offer very competitive prices and can arrange a test drive of the new MG ONE or any of the sleek and sporty MG cars, crossovers and SUVs. Call 4040 1444

MG ONE

The first generation of the all-new MG ONE has arrived in the Middle East. Available at Auto Class Cars on Salwa Road, the all-new 2023 MG ONE will strengthen the brand’s increasingly popular model range, offering even more style, technology and luxurious comfort at great value prices.

The arrival of the MG’s newest SUV is set to help the brand reinforce its position in the top six car makers in the Middle East.

The MG ONE is the first MG model to harness the latest technology with the introduction of SAIC Motor’s self-developed all-new modular SIGMA architecture platform, housing a 1.5 litre turbocharged powerplant delivering 181 hp and maximum torque of 285Nm – powering the vehicle to a top speed of 195 kph. All models are equipped with an innovative seven-speed Continuously Variable Transmission for smoother, more efficient gear changes and optimum reliability. The self-developed SIGMA architecture platform has been designed to optimise interior space, with up to 70% efficiency. The architecture compresses the mechanical space to help balance the exterior and interior space. As an all-in-one modular platform, it can house a range of allelectric and hybrid powertrains, as well as regular internal combustion engines. This advanced electric architecture creates a smart car experience for MG’s new generation of vehicles.

The impressive specification levels include the availability of leather seats, a 12.3” virtual cluster panel with a trip computer, a six-way electric driver seat with lumbar support, four-way electric passenger seats, a panoramic sunroof, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, GPS navigation, as well as a full complement of front, side and curtain airbags. Cruise control, push-button ignition, keyless entry, and a rear-view camera are all fitted as standard, with a 360-degree parking view camera on full option models, to give the driver total control and peace of mind on their journey. One of MG's most acclaimed benefits is the sixyear/200,000 km warranty for ultimate peace of mind. In fact, there are so many standout – and standard – features, go check them out at Auto Class Cars on Salwa Road. They have all the answers – they're great and not expensive!

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 800 8123

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 800 0505 nissanqatar.com

Domasco Industrial Area, Street 10 (Servicing) Street 43 (Body Shop) 4424 6735, 800 8123

domasco.com

Domasco Industrial Area, Street 10 (Servicing) Street 43 (Body Shop) 4424 6731, 800 8123

domasco.com, volvocars.com/en-qa

Motoring Essentials

Obtaining a Qatari Driving Licence

To apply for a Qatar driving licence you must be a resident in Qatar and at least 18 years of age for light vehicles or motorcycles, or 21 for heavy vehicles. You must be physically fit and demonstrate a certain level of driving proficiency, meaning that most expatriates will be required to take a driving test at an authorised testing centre. The procedure is simple: visit either the Madinat Khalifa Traffic Department or one of the registered driving schools and complete all the paperwork –this will be in Arabic, translation typing services are available for a small fee. Fees: Vehicles QAR250, motorcycles QAR150, valid for five years, for first time applications/renewals/replacements.

A vision test must be done when applying. After passing the test, you may be asked to submit an online theoretical driving exam. This will enable you to start driving lessons at one of the driving schools, then take the practical and street driving exam. There are additional fees for the driving and eye tests.

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 Madinat Khalifa Traffic Department to check whether your country qualifies. Open daily (except Friday) 7 am – 11 am/4 pm – 7 pm. For more information, visit Hukoomi at gov.qa

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.

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:

• You will need: three passport-size photos, valid Qatar ID, an eye test certificate, and a copy of your sponsor company ID, plus a letter of permission from your sponsor. 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.

• 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.

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).

Image © Ashghal

You can alternatively use an international driving licence for up to six months, after which it is 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. 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.

The Driving Test

To get your driving licence, you will have to pass the following tests:

Theory: A digital test about traffic laws and road signs.

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 hill-start 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.

You will take all parts of the test and be informed at each stage whether you have passed or failed. If you fail one part of the test, you cannot proceed to the next stage.

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).

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.

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.

Getting Your Car or Motorcycle Tested for a Road Permit

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, how to prepare the vehicle and inspection tips visit fahes.com.qa, call 800 3835, 4021 7777

Timings: Al Egda/Al Mazrooah/Al Sheehaniya/ Al Wakra/Al Wukair/Industrial Area Sunday to Thursday 6 am – 5:45 pm; Madinat Al Shamal Wed/Thu 7 am – 1:45 pm. Inspections are on a first-come, first-served basis; the busiest period is 8 am – noon. Wadi Al Banat/Mesaimeer 6 am –5:30 pm; bookings must be made via the app.

Fees: Cars QAR150, motorcycles QAR100, by card only. Remember to take the expiring istimara

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

• 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

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.

• 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

Qatar Fuel, also known as WOQOD, releases the fuel prices each month, as determined by QatarEnergy.

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

Need assistance after a car accident? Stranded in the desert? Call 999 (Police | Ambulance | Fire)

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