Motoring in Qatar: Autumn 2023

Motoring in Qatar

Useful Numbers

Motoring Reviews

Feature – Know Your Rights

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has issued a notice to protect the rights of used and new car buyers.

Mitsubishi Montero Sport

The locations of major service centres and other entities

Founder & Managing Editor

Hilary Bainbridge

Editorial

Sarah Palmer (Editor)

Ola Diab (Deputy Editor)

Terry Sutcliffe

Advertising

Howard Bainbridge

Charlotte Wright

Maria Anicas

Retail Sales

Ayen Molina

Online/Digital

Lalaine Turqueza

Weslee Dizon

Harvey Vippond

Design and Artwork

Dick Tamayo

Mar Principe

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.

© 2023 Marhaba Information Guide. All Rights Reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, in any form, without written permission of the publishers.

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General Information

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Car Showrooms

Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Co.

Useful Numbers

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.

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.

Other locations: Al Rayyan, Al Thumama, Al Wakra, Dukhan, Education City, Industrial Area, Maamoura, Mesaimeer Umm Slal, and some insurance companies. Visit Hukoomi for online services, gov.qa

4481 0400/0500

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.

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!

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 177 hp (130 kW) @ 5,500 rpm

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

EXTERIOR Amazing look! Sharp but sleek, the new Emkoo amazing front grille with distinctive air intakes and lights plus sporty back lights, window, spoiler and dual exhaust pipes; excellent use of chrome, aluminium and carbon fibre effects all combine to complete the new 'space age' look

INTERIOR Slip into supportive seats, feel the luxury trim, push button start, feel the flat bottom wheel and enjoy the joystick-style shifter – this SUV feels very sporty! Cool phone-centric environment is 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" instrument cluster and 10.25" silky smooth touchscreen; wireless charging; Bluetooth integration with Apple CarPlay, superior six-speaker stereo system

SAFETY/SECURITY Front, side and curtain airbags, ESP, ABS, EBD; ISOFIX child safety seat anchors, 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 at the new showroom

BRAND NEW

The new GAC showroom on East Industrial Street is near the Interchange for Street 10. Friendly staff will explain all and even arrange a test drive of the Emkoo or any GAC stylish SUV/car. Call 800 8123

EMKOO

GAC are on a roll in Qatar. Backed by the strong resources of Domasco, sales are rising fast, powered mainly by the successful GS3, GS4 and GS8. And now, not content with this success and sitting on their laurels, GAC have launched a new look, a complete new design language, in fact. The most obvious distinction is undoubtedly the styling which is much more dynamic than previous designs and different from most other cars in this segment for that matter. Contrary to the previous 'classic' look, the Emkoo’s abundance of chiselled surfaces and amazing front grille make for a particularly unique package. The front detailing, including daytime running lights that cut downwards and sideways and never exceed 2 cm in width, is particularly aggressive and sets the tone for the rest of the car. The deeply sculpted beltline sits quite high, but not at the expense of excessive bodywork which is instead sculpted into an angular design that rises towards the car’s high rear end. Like with sister Empow, your first look and contact is fantastic. As your approach your Emkoo, with the keys in your pocket or bag, the car unlocks and the door handles pop out – so cool, so contemporary! Those first impressions increase as you start to enjoy the Emkoo's interior; it's great – the driving position, the ergonomic controls, the high tech centre console, the user-friendly screens for information and entertainment, very supportive seats, premium soft-to-the-touch trim materials. Yes, this interior is as eye-catching as the silky, satiny exterior.

The new Emkoo is not just a pretty face; it's really enjoyable to drive. The turbocharged 1.5 litre engine is powerful, quick off the mark (with some wheelspin if you really try!) and quiet when cruising the highways. The light and self-centring steering makes manoeuvring in traffic and negotiating narrow streets a breeze. Driving is so pleasant, visibility is great, everything is close to hand, touchscreen is smoother than my iPad! All my passengers are comfortable too, and enjoying the Hi-Fi superior sound system and the comfortable space, including the secret cubby hole for your bag, in this large SUV cabin.

1.5 TGDI Engine Power 177 hp; Torque 270nm

‘Eye of Enlightment’ LED Headlights

Panoramic Glass Roof 19” Alloy

TECHSPEC

ENGINE 3.0 litre 24-valve, V6 MIVEC

MAX POWER 230 hp (170kW) @ 6,000 rpm

MAX TORQUE 290 Nm (214 lb-ft) @ 4,000 rpm

TRANSMISSION Eight-speed automatic with Super Select between 2WD and three grades of 4WD

EXTERIOR Striking and dominating Dynamic Shield front fascia with distinctive lighting features front and rear; wrap-around front bumpers and integrated skid plate give it an unmistakable and strong appearance while the chrome-trimmed grille, LED headlights and LED daytime running lights highlight the luxury design and high build quality; strong character line stretching from headlights to the rear plus the pronounced wheel arches give a clean but tough look

INTERIOR 8-inch touchscreen; infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; the clear screen and highcontrast instrument cluster show excellent clarity, sound great and are easy to use with control on both screen and steering wheel; new climate control panel complete with knobs that minimise driver distraction; three USB ports for charging, and a power-plug for powering any device

SAFETY/SECURITY Amazing set of safety features, incl. blind spot warning, forward collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control; rear cross traffic alert; front, side, curtain airbags; keyless operation; hands-free tailgate access; engine start button; ventilated disc brakes; active stability and traction control; off-road confidence; high-strength reinforced RISE body

2023

MONTERO SPORT

The new 2023 Mitsubishi Montero Sport stands high and proud with a distinctive design that really showcases its tough off-road capabilities. The front end Dynamic Shield fascia is eye-catching, as is the liberal application of chrome outlining the grille and sharp headlamps plus the distinctive rear LED taillight design with an LED rim. It has a wellchiselled and edgy look, primarily dominated by the front fascia, the muscular wheel arches and the strong high-riding rear.

I instantly and instinctively liked the Montero Sport; it gives you a lot of car for your money and is practical and versatile. And, even before I reversed out of my parking space, the rear cross-traffic alert had warned me of traffic approaching on the road behind me. So, I was indeed suitably impressed with this safety feature – which is only one in a long list of many.

The interior design is also well done; the leather trim is beautiful, luxurious and comfortable. It follows the message of the dynamic exterior design and gives a modern and premium feel. The fourspoke steering wheel is comfortable in the hand, while giving the driver easy access to a whole range of controls at his or her fingertips.

The second row of the new Montero Sport is really spacious and comfortable with elegant leather seating. The third row has also been improved with a spring-loaded one-pull stowing mechanism. When you drive the Montero you notice the ample power available, quick acceleration when needed in traffic, for example, and the precise and tight steering which also makes you feel more secure. The high ground clearance and dominant driving position give great confidence on rough ground. The powerful V6 engine is a robust performer on any terrain, while Mitsubishi's eight-speed automatic gearbox delivers a smoother and more luxurious ride, wherever you go.

Safety is paramount of course; the Montero Sport has integrated stability and traction control, tyre pressure monitoring, ISOFIX anchors, an electronic parking brake, and more. There's even a Forward Collision Mitigation System (FCMS), to brake the Montero Sport if it senses an impending collision.

Qatar Automobiles Co on Salwa Road offer very competitive prices and will be pleased to arrange a test drive of the new Mitsubishi Montero Sport or any of its SUVs and cars for Marhaba readers. 4422 7555

Service Centres

Qatar Automobiles Company Industrial Area, Street 10 4460 1995 mitsubishiqatar.com

East

Domasco East Industrial Street 800 8123

gac-motor.qa, gac-motor.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) 800 8123 volvocars.com

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).

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 Mazrooah Sat – Thu 6 am – 6 pm; Al Egda/Al Sheehaniya/Al Wukair/Industrial Area Sun to Thu 6 am – 6 pm; Al Shamal mobile station Wed/Thu 7 am – 2 pm. No appointment required; the busiest period is 8 am – noon.

Al Wakra/Mesaimeer/Wadi Al Banat 6 am – 6 pm; by appointment only, 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.

Metrash2 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 Metrash2, 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 Metrash2 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 Metrash2. 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, have been a priority for the government as part of Qatar National Road Safety Strategy 2013–2022, and will continue to reduce the death and injury rates under the second version of the strategy, running from 2023 to 2030.

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 should 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 first.

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 widely 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.

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

Know Your Rights

By Ola Diab

MoCI has issued a notice to protect the rights of used and new car buyers. Distributors have to provide signed documents showing date of delivery, price and more.

The Consumer Protection and Combating Commercial Fraud Department at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) has issued Circular No 1 of 2023 to specify the obligations of car providers to consumers when buying or reserving cars by preparing a form for a 'delivery date document' that includes mandatory data in accordance with the provisions of the law. This circular comes in line with MoCI's keenness to protect consumers’ rights when buying or reserving new or used cars.

MoCI referred to Law No 8 of 2008, regarding the protection of consumers, and amendments which clarified the obligations of providers in line with the protection of consumers’ rights, Article 8 relates to the rights of consumers to obtain additional information as per the executive regulations of this law, which stipulates in Article 4 the nature of data that should be available in the document issued by the providers, leading to the following decision:

The preparation of a form to reserve a vehicle, which includes the following:

• Name and address of the provider, and the date of the invoice

• Type of vehicle or service, plus a basic description

• Sale unit

• Number of units sold

• Unit condition (if used)

• Price of the unit or service in Qatari Riyal

• Delivery date

• Signature/seal of the provider or his/her legal representative

• Serial number of the unit and its components

The form is completed once the provider is certain about the availability of the vehicle requested by the consumer, and once the dates of delivery and payment are specified.

Providing the customer with a copy of the 'delivery date form':

All car dealers concerned with this circular shall regularly provide the Consumer Protection and Anti-Commercial Fraud Department with a monthly statement of car reservations and make it readily available.

In addition, MoCI decided to give car dealers residing in Qatar a week's notice to implement the changes and inform the Consumer Protection and Anti-Commercial Fraud Department about it.

MoCI affirms that after the expiry of the deadline, it shall intensify its inspections to monitor the adherence of car dealers to the new regulations, and it will deal with any violation of the obligations stipulated in Law No 8 of 2008 and its implementing regulations related to consumer protection.

MoCI encourages all citizens and residents to report any violations.

For more information, visit moci.gov.qa or call the MoCI Call Centre 16001

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Licence Plates of Qatar

When driving around Qatar, you may notice the different licence plate numbers on vehicles, whether private, public or corporate. Certain types of vehicles display a similar colour-text code on their number plate.

There are various criteria that regulate which vehicle bears which colour number plate, and you may have noticed in the first instance that some cars have white plates, some black, and others blue. As a matter of fact, the owner isn't allowed to choose the colour of the number plate. Under the Ministry of Transport and based on the European system of codification, Qatar's Traffic Department imposes the colour restrictions, symbols, and categories upon each vehicle via the different licence plates. In addition, the licence number and the type of licence plate number carried by a vehicle is determined and allocated by the Traffic Department.

White background with black text and Qatar flag is for private vehicles owned by residents of Qatar. Resembling Qatar's flag, it will have the plate number on the right and the maroon isosceles triangles on the left with the word Qatar written on it. A vehicle with this licence plate cannot be used for commercial purposes.

Public transportation buses will carry a similar licence plate that is maroon to the left and white with the plate number to the right but without the isosceles triangles.

Vehicles which were bought in 2022 bear plate numbers with the official logo of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM

By Ola Diab

Every year, the Ministry of Interior holds an auction for licence plates with special numbers that could sell for more than QAR1 mn (USD274,649).

White background with red text is for diplomatic or dignitary vehicles, which are issued to accredited diplomats only. 'CD' will be written on the plate along with 'diplomatic dignitary' in Arabic. These are special vehicle registration plates that usually have unique features to enable them to be distinguished from other vehicles, allowing them to have special facilities. Black background with white text is for commercial vehicles.

Blue background with white text are for the white and blue striped police vehicles. Yellow background with red text are for the red Lekhwiya security force's plate number.

Metallic grey background with black text is for public transport such as that of the Karwa taxis. In addition to the plate number on the right, 'Taxi' will be written in English and Arabic on the left of the plate. White and green background with black text is for trucks commonly used for the transportation of goods and materials within the country.

Orange background with black text is commonly for vehicles that transport for export.

As of 22 February 2023, all cars registered under limousine companies will need to get new licence plates at the time of vehicle permit renewal. The new vehicles belonging to limousine companies will be registered with a plate number with the word 'Limo' written on it.

For more information, visit moci.gov.qa or call the MoCI Call Centre 16001

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