83rd ISSUE
S P R I N G/S UMME R 2022 MAIN CAR SHOWROOMS MAIN SERVICE CENTRES USEFUL NUMBERS MOTORING ESSENTIALS MOTORING REVIEWS FEATURES A HYBRID FUTURE SILA
Motoring in
Qatar
Untitled-1 1
4/7/22 9:36 AM
QATAR MOTORING E-GUIDE ©
MARHABA
2 MOWASALAT AD M83.indd 1
4/5/22 2:44 PM
Motoring
PRINT and ONLINE
marhaba.qa
Service Centres
Useful Numbers
Motoring Essentials
Motoring Reviews Nissan Pathfinder
• 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 MG GT
Motoring
Main Car Showrooms
The locations of major service centres and other entities
GAC GS4
Mitsubishi Eclipse
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. ©
M83 Intro pages.indd 10
MARHABA
SPRING/SUMMER 2022
4/5/22 2:42 PM
Founder & Managing Editor Hilary Bainbridge Editorial Sarah Palmer (Editor) Ola Diab (Deputy Editor) Terry Sutcliffe Advertising Howard Bainbridge Charlotte Wright Retail Sales Ayen Molina Maria Anicas Online/Digital Lalaine Turqueza Weslee Dizon Ramla Mohamed Abdirahman Design and Artwork Dick Tamayo Mar Principe
IMPRESSUM M83 1/2 page.indd 1
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. © 2021/22 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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MARHABA
SPRING/SUMMER 2022
5 METRASH AD M83.indd 1
4/5/22 2:45 PM
ACS
Al Bayt Stadium is in Al Khor City, 30 km to the north on Al Khor Road
The International School of London in Qatar
70 Jasim
Al Gharr afa St
Al
t
an S
Ray y
Celebration Hall
Al Jahanniya I/C
Road
uard
3
Gate 2
Education City
St
Qatar Nat’l Library
ek
St
Al Ray
Al Q a l ah
Al Shafi St
St a iy us
ir
St
St
d
Ras
56
A
d St eara Al M
Al Jazeera Academy
Al Sulaiti Bangladesh
Zaks Uniform Store Ideal Indian
Qatar Ind Tech QDC Safari
d
Wa
t
aS
riy
oo
4
Doha Mal
Park House
Ruqayya
Ut
Bin
Immigration
Pak Education Centre
Mind Institute
t mS
DOHA GREATER MAP M83.indd 2
t
lS
56
01 Mall
l iA
St
et
Mannai
Al Maha PISQ
B in
S
Doha Academy Girls Al Ma Creativity ad Centre ee Qatar Egyptian dS Skills t Language Academy TEK Cambridge Alfardan Girls Gardens 3 MES Doha Modern Mes Indian Mesaime Service
Mesaimeer Vaccination Unit Qatar Scientific Club
Ain Khaled Gate
Umm Al S enee
NBK
ed
St
mad
rk Ma
t Kh al
CEID
BMW
e
Ali
German School Doha
ale
dS
Khaled Bin Ahmed
hm
d
aR
Nissan
Omar Bin Al Khattab
lou
Ha
les
ho
ale
5
y
Dreama
Al Maamoura Traffic Police
W
Elder Tree Nursery
Kh
Abu Bakir Siddique
wa
t
d
Jarir
lw
Sa
Skills Developm Center
Alfardan Gardens 4 Dar Al Salam Mall
oa
aR
ss
Zakat Fund
Doha British
lw
Sa
pre
NBK Mercedes Hyundai Auto Class MG / Maxus Mitsubishi
Lycee Voltaire
2
La C
Gulf Pearls
Al Mirqab Mall
Cafe Batteel
Salwa Rd Bridge
Rd
Tebah Gardens
Ex
St idr
Aziziya
Swiss Belinn
Family Food Centre
Al Asiri
ASD
55
Al S
Al Sadd St
GAC
Garvey’s
Alfardan Gardens 2
Forensic Lab Dept
y Cit
55
Belgravia
aS
See more details of the area in our map of INDUSTRIAL AREA
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al Sadd Club)
CESK
Beverly Hills
ts
Academy
Doha Academy Al Waab Campus
r Spo
Qatar Veterinary Centre
d oa aR iliy Summit
Sa
Newton
t/ eS
Royal Vet
Al
53
Sport City
Z on
Al Aziziyah
ire
Villaggio
Beverly Hills Gardens
Asp
KidsZania Hyatt Plaza
55
Step by Step
Al Waab City
Aspire Zone
2
Vet Surgery
39
QNA
ha
Awqaf
Torch
St
Hamad Amb Hospital
Wyndham
Joaan
Do
Aspire Park
Al
ab Wa
Hamad
DoubleTree Al Sadd Doha Clinic Victoria Hospital
Al Sudan Study Plus
A
Women’s Warwick
AIA
h in T
Su h aim Bin Ha
Am
Al Aziziyah Academy Aspetar Boutique Hotel
t Jassim Bi n Ali S
Al S
53
54
Driving School
Khalifa International Stadium FIFA World Cup Al Waab Qatar 2022™
Traffic Police
Royal Hall
Wathnan Mall
Al Rayyan Security Dept
s St ufou Al Kh Al Rayyan
Edison
ad
British Council
Rasheeda St
C
Fir Stat
Whit Palac
Le Park The Avenue Imperial Suites Millennium Al Asmakh Royal Plaza Mall
A
ziziy 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
Appletree Nursery
Ain
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
Al Furousiya 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
Sedaira St
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 10 11 12 14 15 16 17
an Ro
Al
Full details of Qatar’s districts and zones at gisqatar.org.qa
University of Calgary
r rrido Co ad – HIA hm a I/C l A khb e h L b a U mm
(zones comprise one or more districts, some of which are listed below)
Al Rayy
54 38
Sa
Al Salam St
THE ZONES OF DOHA
City
Debakey
Al Rayyan
MoI HQ
ed B mm ha Mo
Lulu
Al Messila
Newton
Racing & Equestrian Club
Town Centre
Messila
yan Al Jadeed S t
Al Wajba St
Metro Stations
D
Al Messila Resort & Spa
Compass
St
t aS ajb Al W
Gold line Al Aziziyah - Ras Bu Abboud
Ansar Gallery
Nissan Civil Defence Al Ahli Hospital
36 37 Medical
Al Rayyan Al Qadeem
Beverly Hills Al Rayyan
Red line Lusail - HIA T1 - Al Wakra Green line Al Riffa - Al Mansoura
20 1 a St
Ate
Al Jazeera
Onaiz
Al
Philippine School of Doha
Q S
t
ar
w
Hu
Khattab St
iS
Al Rayyan Municipality Food Jarir Centres Bookstore
Doha College Al Wajba
64
K &S
n Al
Education City St Al Rayya n
34 35
Al Jazira Al Arabiya St University Foundation College English Modern School
Al
Volvo
QBS QTV
DESS
French Nursery
Omar Bin Al
Ja
i ed B Ahm
52
adeena St Al M
Al Shaqab
Chef’s Garden
EC Golf Club
Makkah St
SEK
Imam Mohd Ibn Abdul Wahab Honda
Qatar Guest Centre
Omar Bin Al Khattab
Swiss International
Makkah St Oxygen Park Gate 5
Al Shaqab Mathaf
Edison
Traffic Dept HQ
Al Gharrafa
Souq Al Ali
St
All trains connect at Msheireb Station
uqta
Al L
51
College of Islamic Studies Education City Mosque
Oma
CCQ Boys
Al Hazm
Khalifa St
Al Luqta St
In Fr du
West Bay Al Meera
ad in Ham Jasi m B
Doha Metro Network
Car Park
New
Al Kh
St
Kanga’s Pouch
32 33
St
Al Wajba
2 Qatar Environment and Energy Research Institute (QEERI)
66
ty
Madinat Khalifa
Porsche Quick Service
Compass QNCC Qatar National Library
St
6
Starfish Lane Kids
Park View Compass Pet Centre
Little Academy
St
ur o
Dukhan
iri G
Education City Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™
Premier Inn Doha Education City Hotel
in Jassim
Al F
Am
b St
LuLu
QSTP
22 Feb
51
erha
Al Riffa - Mall of Qatar
C
Education City Community Housing
Gh af f
1 Al T
T ha n i B
afa Al
Japan School
AlRayyan Hotel
si
Al M
Elder Tree KG
Umm Lekhba
ya
i rkh Ma
Mall of Qatar
Tawar Mall Dahl Al Hamam Family Park
Ezdan Mall
er
67 zm
Edison
a St Al Markhiy
ACS Int’l School
iv
hiya St ark
Interchange
Ezdan Palace Landmark Mall
Gulf Mall
Ha
Un
St
ad
Ma jd
Ro
t
tS Gulf English School
Sherborne
31
Qatar Canadian School
Duhail
51
13. Qatar Foundation Headquarters
Al Ghaf St
Jelaiah Complex
ifi
Lycee Wadi Rawd a n St Voltaire
68
Starfish Lane Kids 2
St Al Khafji
Al Gharrafa Sports Club
Al Gharrafa Park
Jeliah St
Qatar Veterinary Centre
Riviera Gardens
ee
2
il St
uha
Al D
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
g
A
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
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12.
ta
UDST
b League St) Ara was
( )
Education City EC
Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™
Interchange
la
ez l Gh
Ze
Dukhan Zekreet Al Sheehaniya Sheikh Faisal Museum
4
Doha Shooting Club
St niya
, 245
Faisal Museum
30
North Gate Compass
sim
St
Ministry of Education
Le
B
Izghawa
n
awa
et Stre St. (
Al Izgh
Al Meera
ad Ham Bin
Al Rufaa Street
68
Bi
Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium (Al Duhail Sports Club)
Doha G
e
Road Interchange
Qatar University
FAHES
ziz
Restaurant
Health Centre
70
Al Kharaitiyat /
Ab du lA
Auto Dealer
Non-stop Expressway
St
Sub-station
lA Jee ven ra u
Veterinary Clinic
Club
cia
School, College, Club
Housing Complex
69
Jawaan
Government Office
Doha Festival City
Newton
MoI Immigration Department et Directorate of Passports Stre rfa Ta Al
mm er
Petrol Station
Duhail Water Pumping Station
WOQO
Co
Religious Complex
Sports Stadium
Al T
wa
Bookstore
Cultural Landmarks
St
arfa
t et S kre Ze
Al Majd Road (Orbital)
IKEA
Mosque
Shopping Mall
Fox Hills South
Qatar Finland Int’l School
Legend Hospital
Lusa Towe
vard
Comm
Crescent Park
QATAR
Hotel
WOQOD
Fox Hills North
Boule
ercial
Lusail
CGIS
prepared in cooperation with
ad
Al Bayt Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™
Lusail Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™
6
oad
Doha
Map of Greater
1
al R am Sh Al
A
2
3
Al Khor Semaisma Losail Int’l Circuit
o r Ro Al K h
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
Ba r
1
Ras Laffan Al Shamal Al Zubara Al Khor Al Shamal Rd
3/28/22 9:53 AM
Ansar Gallery
Nissan
4
Water Slide
Lusail Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™
6
WOQOD
EMBASSY LOCATIONS
Rixos Fox Hills North
o r Ro ad
Lusail Towers
vard
Qetaifan Island South
Boule
ercial
Comm
5
Qetaifan Island North
Qetaifan Island North
WOQOD
Crescent Park
Waldorf Astoria
Fox Hills South
Royal Meridien Vendome Mall
Beverly Hills Lusail Cielo
Qatari Diar
eet
Str
WOQOD
QNTC MOCI
Shafallah Centre
69
Newton
Marina
Marina District
Doha Sports Park
t ree
Staybridge Suites
t
Katara Hospitality
QIPCO
Qatar University
Doha Golf Club Ritz-Carlton
ag
ya
L
St
er
si
66
ty
CCQ Boys
Kanga’s Pouch
SEK
St sim n
Bi
ziz
64
Al Jazi Gardens
4 35
St
Jawaan
y
wa ss
Salwa Rd Bridge
d aR
e air sh Mu
bS
St
lA Jee ven ra ue
cia
Mexico
C4
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
am
C–H
ba I/
Lekh
t’l ad In
ort
Airp
Free Zone Qatar Free Zone
Kahramaa B Square Mall
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
Hungary
B3
Tajikistan
C3
India
C4
Tanzania
C4
Indonesia
D3
Thailand
C4
Iran
C4
Tunisia
C4
Iraq
C4
Turkey
B4
Italy
C4
Uganda
B3
Ivory Coast
B4
Ukraine
B3
Japan
B4
United Kingdom
C4
C4
B
C4
Kazakhstan
B3
United States of America
C3
Kenya
B3
Uruguay
C3
Korea (S)
B4
Venezuela
B4
Kosovo
C4
Vietnam
B3
C
D
B
St
ah A
Sab
Umm
r
rrido
d Co
ma l Ah
Rd
mm er
D4
Belarus
See our detailed map of the area south of Doha MAP of AL WAKRA
Al Meera
Air Force I/C
St
kra
Al Weteyyat
daill
Al Fa
Wa
Co
Bangladesh
A
oud
Kahramaa Awareness Park
Al
wa
C4
Abb
47
King’s College
t
Ba r
B4
Mauritania
Bu
Sub-station
46
DOHA GREATER MAP M83.indd 3
Mali
B4
g Rd
E Rin
Al Thumama Stadium FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™
Workers Health Centre
Ras
Oqba Ibn Nafie
ri S
Meteorology
C4
Azerbaijan
Airport Traffic Division
nsa
Mesaimeer
Rd
Medical Commission Drainage Dept
C4
Austria
HIA T1
Al A
ea
Ar
48
oub
Nissan
American Academy
ME & HE
t
al
tri
B3
Malaysia
A
Airport
St Bin Nafie
aS
Ansar Gallery
Oqba
Concourse C
Ayy
Berlitz
Libya
C4
Oryx Airport Hotel
Qadeem
Shoprite
jm
Mind Institute
45
Montezine
Qatar Red Crescent
E Ring Rd
B3
Australia
E
D
Abu
44
The Mall IAID
Na
Safari
LuLu
Al Ahli Sports Club
et Stre ort Airp Old
t
Qatar Ind Tech QDC
Gulf Times Safeer Arrayah Gulf Rd Family Warehousing ing Food Centre Alfardan R Al Emadi D Hospital Le Mirage Gardens
Elder Tree Nursery
Armenia
Hamad International Airport
Doha Heliport
Umm Ghuwailina
41 42
Summit KG
Tank Farm
s du
Chevrolet
aS
43
2526
Regency Kahramaa Halls
C4
Ras Bu Abboud Qatar Aeronautical College
Strato by Warwick Al Mansoura Al Meera Al Meera Hyatt Regency Ford Al Mansour Oryx Doha AAB Mashreq Suites Al Jabor Bank Al Mana Al Matar Al Vision Holiday d R Chrysler g Villa C Rin
Al Meera
Liberia
Sharq Village & Spa
Abu Bakr
Holiday Inn
Financial Marhaba Square
B3
d St
St
Newton Int’l
In
Zaks Uniform Store Ideal Indian
Darwish Travel
D Ring Rd
Doha Mall
Park House
Abbou
rt
40
Crowne Safir Plaza
Al Muntazah Plaza
Argentina
C4
Stadium 974 FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™
Premier Inn Doha Airport Hotel Capital Al Liwan Police Concorde Jarir Bookstore
jm
Al Jazeera Academy
National Museum
Ras Bu
Al Doha Al Jadeda
B Ring Rd
24
Immigration
Pak Education Centre
atar ntific lub
Saraya
Na
56
Souq Waqif
B4
Banana Island by Anantara
po
t
Ramada Encore
t
Musherib
Al Muntazah The Centre Radisson Blu aalishan Rawda
Doha Academy Girls Al Ma Creativity ad Centre ee Qatar Egyptian dS Skills t Language Academy TEK Cambridge Indian Alfardan Girls Cultural Gardens 3 MES Centre Doha Modern Mesaimeer Indian Mesaimeer Services
Bangladesh
Msheireb
C3
Lebanon
ark
National Museum of Qatar
Movenpick
Alwadi Park Hyatt
Four Points by Sheraton
Westin Doha
Sterling
lw Sa
German School Doha
Alfardan ardens 4 Dar Al Salam Mall
ura ce
i ad W
Jarir
lS
lou
Ha
he St Souq Al Cornic Waqif Bin Zaid
Amiri Diwan
Kyrgyz Rep
C4
xP
Bo
Air
Dreama
Cruise Ship Terminal
Museum of Islamic Art
Kuwait
B4
Algeria
Jordan
Doha Port
Al Mourjan
American C R Hospital b Nissan ali Rawdat i T CCQ ing R Al Khail Ab d Garden Girls in Omar Bin B New Al Khattab Ali CAA Aslata Skills Park Al Arabi Development Club Center
Al Asiri
D
c
C Ring Rd
pre
Ex
Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Al Sadd Club)
Sheraton
Grand Hamad St
ha
Do
55
Bin Mahmoud
Gulf Pearls
Al Mirqab Mall
Cafe Batteel
Ooredoo
Hotel Park
16 23 14 15 27
La Cigale
St
39
Family Food Centre
e j St
Al Sadd St
QNA
by Step
Al Sadd
mad
dan
Vet Surgery
Joaan Swiss Belinn DoubleTree Al Sadd Doha Clinic Victoria Hospital
British Council
i rn
Banyan Tree
e Al Khal
Le Park The Avenue Imperial Suites Millennium Al Asmakh Royal Plaza Mall
St
60heTowers
Hamad Ambulance Al Bidda Hospital
Wyndham
d St hmou Bin Ma
AIA
Tornado
NCCCR Rumailah Heart
Women’s Warwick
nduq
Four Seasons
11 12 2 1 7 22 3 13 4 5 6 17 Al Bidda Park
Su h aim Bin Ha
38
ad
61
Al Fu
St
Hilton
The Curve
DECC
St
an Ro
a
i St han in T
White Palace
Hamad
a
W
Dusit City Center
da
Al Rayy
St
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
Dafna St
id Al B
City
Debakey
63
Qatar National Theatre
Fire Station
a St
t
ila
lM
Qatar Post
Corniche
Onaiz
St
iS
6 37 Medical
MoI HQ
DOHA HOP-OFF BUS SIGHTSEEING ROUTE stops at
North Beach
uk ht ar
Newton
62
ed B mm ha Mo
Lulu
61
The Gate
20 10 n Al
Town Centre
ar A
Khalifa Tennis & Squash Complex Barzan
Nissan Civil Defence Al Ahli Hospital
Floresta Gardens
InterContinental
West Bay l Bidd Palm Tower A
Al Jazeera
i ed B Ahm
ppine hool Doha
ad in Ham Jasi m B
a St
Om
Qatar Sports Club
Volvo
QBS QTV
DESS
b St
29
30
rS t
Imam Mohd Ibn Abdul Wahab Honda
Qatar Guest Centre
Viva
Bahriya Novo Cinemas Sedra Arjaan 31 Residences by Rotana Perlita Beach Beach Gardens
1
The Pearl-Qatar
t
Ab du lA
ta
Onaiza St
Al S iya rkh Ma
Edison
c HQ
uk h
65
Al Hazm
Ja
Medina Centrale
22 23
Porto Arabia
2
St Regis
5/6 Park
5/6 Int’change
West Bay Al Meera
Starfish Lane Kids
The PearlQatar
Porsche
20
Al Qassar
Al Co
hiya St ark
Omar Al M
Elder Tree KG
33
Chouiefat
Institut Francais du Qatar
Al M
18
Newton
Newton
Al Khafji St
St
66
67 zm
Edison
t
4
Rawdat Al Khail St
Ha
iv
Lusail St
68
Un
7
6
Oyster
Diplomatic Club
The Chedi
La Cr
21 High St
Lycee Wadi Rawd a n St Voltaire
Al Ghaf St
12
ette ois
g
ifi
t n S Katara oo
14 15
10
Katara
Jeliah St
s2
Abraj Quartier
Lusai l St
Le
ta
f the antic
ah ex
Hilton The Pearl
Legtaifiya
Ministry of Education
Marsa Malaz Kempinski
Qanat Quartier
Grand Mondrian Hyatt
Legtaifiya Lagoon
o La Cr isette
Lagoona Mall
Najma St
aS
B3
Albania
Belgium
Katara Towers
Al Maha Island
Century
eet il Str Lusa
arfa
Al T
Lusail City
Waterfront
Afghanistan
Ras Bufontas Qatar Free Zone
E
Airport (49) I/C
MegaMart
3/28/22 9:27 AM
Main Car Showrooms
Main 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
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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 Airport, 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 Banking, Commerce and Infrastructure 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 February 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
PATHFINDER SUV TECHSPEC
ENGINE Poweful V6 3.5 litre, 24-valve, DOHC, with direct fuel injection, mated to 2WD or 4WD MAX POWER 271 hp (200 kW) @ 6,400 rpm MAX TORQUE 259 lb-ft (351 Nm @ 4,800 rpm TRANSMISSION Advanced nine-speed automatic EXTERIOR The striking design starts with dramatic styling of the new front grille and distinctive new LED signature headlights and foglights; powerful, elevated stance; strong shoulders and attractive alloy wheels INTERIOR With an extra quiet cabin and ample interior space for three rows of comfortable seats, the all-new Pathfinder provides superior comfort with double stitching on leather seats; all necessary controls on the leatherwrapped steering wheel means you can control the entire experience without taking your hands off the wheel; automatic climate control; full colour display perfect for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; Bose Personal Plus audio system; 60:40 split rear seats; liftgate opens high enough to stand under; the spacious interior maximises room with its flat floor design SAFETY State-of-the-art Nissan Intelligent Mobility driver assist and safety tech features help keep you out of trouble, like the safety shield 360°, rear automatic braking, automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, rear cross traffic alert, intelligent forward collision warning, disc brakes all round; blind spot intervention and so many more; drive more confidently with lower stress and more security for you and your family
Saleh AlHamad AlMana Co will be pleased to arrange a test drive of the new Nissan Pathfinder or any of its SUVs, crossovers and cars. Call 4428 3333 QATAR MOTORING E-GUIDE ©
The all-new 2022 Pathfinder looks to the future with a return to its roots. This fifth generation is paying homage to the original model with elements such as the Nissan three-notch front grille, triangular C-pillar and the side wheels fenders inspired by the first generation. The C-shape LED headlamps, V-motion grill and floating roof all combine and complement each other in this modern design and proudly show the Nissan DNA. Step inside and stretch out! There's absolutely loads of room, seven big seats and the beautiful and modern cabin is crammed with style, comfort and convenience. With an interior this luxurious, and connected, and the coziness of Tri-Zone Automatic Temperature Control, you might never want to go outside... You may feel like you're living in the forefront of technology; the Pathfinder's colour dashboard not only looks good, but also helps you keep focused on what’s most important with all the information you want instantly at a glance on the large, crisp and full-colour screens. Nissan knows that your smart phones are essential and keeps you connected to your world wherever you go. The high driving position and 360° panoramic vision let you instantly take in the landscape and traffic situations – a great confidence booster and stress reliever. Now, get on the gas and experience dynamic performance at every turn. With the power of the impressive Nissan 3.5 litre direct injection V6 engine, you’ll feel confident cruising the highway and, with the wonderfully light steering and visibility, driving and manoeuvring the new Pathfinder around city streets is a breeze. With 2WD or 4WD and seven drive and terrain modes, with space for all your family and luggage too, there's really nowhere in Qatar off limits. The new Pathfinder is fun and easy to drive, and everyone inside feels like they're travelling first class, out in the wilds perhaps, but always connected. Multiple Nissan intelligent technology safety systems, like collision warning and traffic alerts, help keep you safe, secure and stress-free. The Pathfinder is a big, beautiful and smart SUV. Learn all about it at the showroom on Salwa Road.
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THE ALL-NEW NISSAN PATHFINDER LET THE SENSE DRIVE YOU
Nissan Qatar
nissanqatar.com Main Showroom - Salwa Road
Al Sadd Showroom
Bin Omran Showroom
4428 3333 Barwa Showroom
Al Khor Showroom
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ALL-NEW
MG GT TECHSPEC
ENGINE Powerful 1.5 litre with turbo MAX POWER 173 hp (127 kW) @ 5,600 rpm MAX TORQUE 250 Nm (185 lb-ft) from 1,750 rpm ACCELERATION 0 – 100 kph in only 8 seconds TRANSMISSION Seven-speed DCT automatic EXTERIOR Distinctive, aggressive swooping bonnet and slim headlights aside the large 'Digital Flame' grille; futuristic designs for wheels and grille; wide stance and racing silhouette of a fastback; stunning aerodynamic body lines; youthful paint colours INTERIOR Is this a 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. With the advanced air purification system MG have created a safer, comfortable, quality environment to enjoy a sporty yet serene experience SAFETY/SECURITY High-strength steel cage; side chest airbags give more protection; rear parking sensors, rearview camera 360° 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 rapidly becoming an 'auto' success story, with record sales in Qatar and around the Middle East. Now comes the MG GT, a beautiful all-new sports sedan, to liven up the MG range of SUVs and sedans, and it could indeed liven up your life! MG’s success is mainly down to its extremely attractive range of compact and sporty SUVs, plus their economical, spacious and comfortable sedans. ‘Attractive’ in this case means not only undoubted good looks, but also superb comfort and quality of fit and finish, plus the performance and, last but not least, the competitive prices. MG is adding variety to its line-up with the all-new MG GT, and this beauty really is a sleek, muscular fastback sports sedan ready to ignite your passions with many youthful new features. It has a delightful interactive infotainment system with two large crystal-clear touchscreens and, as befits its GT name, sparkling, dynamic performance enjoyed in luxurious comfort. This new coupé-like MG is a delight to look at, 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 and 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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ALL-NEW
GS4 SUV TECHSPEC ENGINE New generation 1.5 litre turbocharged four cylinder DOHC, 16-valve with multi-port injection TRANSMISSION All-new 6-speed tiptronic automatic MAX POWER 166 hp (124 kW) @ 5,000 rpm MAX TORQUE 265 Nm (195 lb-ft) from 1,700 rpm EXTERIOR Light and shadow sculpture grille design and muscular shoulder line highlight strength and style, enhancing impression of length. Dual-star full LED headlamps and taillights, excellent use of chrome and aluminium, add extra character and quality; sporty proportions and wonderful quality of fit and finish make the GS4 a car that you and your family will be proud to own INTERIOR Super spacious with quality materials worthy of a much more expensive vehicle; premium ventilated leather seats and soft-textured touch-friendly trim; seats are so spacious and comfortable; 26 storage spaces convenient for all occupants; rear seat row passengers get exclusive airconditioning and USB ports; two large 12.3 inch digital display, behind the wheel and central colour touchscreen; Bluetooth smartphone integration with wireless charging, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, superior six-speaker stereo system all make for a comfortable and connected in-car experience SAFETY/SECURITY Front, side and curtain airbag protection, ISOFIX interface, ESP by Bosch, ABS, EBD and TCS; disc brakes all round, ventilated on front; hill start control; electronic parking brake; tyre pressure monitoring system; 100% highstrength steel compartment; five-star safety rating
The GAC showroom is right by the new suspension bridge on Salwa Road. The friendly staff will explain all and even arrange a test drive of the GS4 or any of the GAC stylish SUVs and cars. Call 4424 8989 QATAR MOTORING E-GUIDE ©
The all-new GAC GS4 surprises with its large and impressive proportions – you do get a lot of car for your money! It is very well built and finished, too, with new sculpted styling and a luxury look. The new GS4 has an elegant look and the beautiful chrome and aluminium trim on the grille, lights and body add a touch of class and quality. With your key in your pocket or bag, step into the roomy cabin, ensconse yourself in the sporty, supportive seat and press the engine start button. What do you hear? Well, impressively, hardly anything at all. The new GS4 is amazingly quiet. When you get on the road you'll be impressed by the power and lag-free acceleration from the turbo engine, but what's even better is the overall smoothness and refinement. So, a beautiful, quality car with good performance in city traffic or on the open road. Already a win-win situation. But here's another 'win' coming up, because, you may ask, what does this actually mean for me as a daily driver or passenger. Access to the very spacious interior is easy through the wide-opening door; the room in back is amazing, it's looks more like a stretch limo than a compact SUV. In front, the sports-style supportive seats are super luxurious and comfortable and all controls and switches are in easy reach, ie excellent ergonomics. The screens are large and clear and the dashboard design is really detailed and cool. The upholstery and trim are of high quality and the matt aluminium and chrome touches contrast nicely with the black trim and seats with contrasting red stitching. Beautiful. But also connected. And as smooth and practical as your smartphone, even better than your smartphone in some respects, as the six quality speakers give out impressive distortion-free concert hall stereo sound. Fantastic. I haven't mentioned the 360° all-round cameras, making parking a breeze, and yes, there's even a sunroof/moonroof where you can transform your music into an openair music festival. There's so much to learn, so much good news; get a brochure or, better, visit GAC on Salwa Road under (almost) the impressive Suspension Bridge.
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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, paddle shift EXTERIOR Dynamic, youthful lines convey a sense of energy; 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 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 ©
For more than 100 years Mitsubishi has built cars and with increasing demand for compact SUVs and high-riding Crossovers, it is not surprising to see the Eclipse Cross emerge as another SUV to add to Mitsubishi’s already wide range. With its restyled external 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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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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FEATURE
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marhaba.qa
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 and upcoming app, Sila, an integrated public transport system that makes planning your journey and payment a whole lot smarter.
improve and ease the use of the public transport network, in order 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.
The Ministry of Transport recently unveiled Sila, a brand that brings together Qatar’s transport modes into one 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.
The project also 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, which means ‘connection’ in Arabic, will be launched in phases. Currently, it includes the metro, bus, taxi and tram networks. When fully launched, Sila will include 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.
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.
Through the 'Sila' project, the Ministry of Transport aims to bring together the means of transportation operating in Qatar under one umbrella, and to
For more information, find Sila’s social media pages: Facebook: @silaqatar Instagram: @sila_qatar Twitter: @sila_qatar Website: sila.motc.gov.qa m
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Motoring Essentials
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. 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
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. 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) QATAR MOTORING E-GUIDE ©
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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. • Complete an application form at a driving school (see Useful Numbers in this section).
• 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, 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.
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.
Motoring Essentials
• 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.
International Driving Licences
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
Motoring Essentials
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. A map of Fahes stations can be found at fahes.com.qa, as well as details of how to prepare the vehicle and inspection tips, or call 800 3835, 4021 7777 Working hours: Sunday to Thursday 6 am – 6 pm (gate closes at 5:45 pm). Try to avoid the busiest period (8 am – noon), and note that timings may change during public holidays. 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
QATAR MOTORING E-GUIDE ©
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.
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marhaba.qa 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.
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 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.
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.
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).
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 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
Motoring Essentials
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.
• 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. 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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marhaba.qa Traffic Accidents
Motoring Essentials
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.
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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
Checked & Updated February 2022
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.
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FEATURE
A Hybrid Future By Ola Diab The Ministry of Municipality has launched a set of new rented hybrid environmentally friendly cars to reduce pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in the air.
T
he Ministry of Municipality, represented by the Department of Mechanical Equipment of the Public Services Affairs Sector, has supported a number of departments and municipalities with a set of new rented hybrid environmentally friendly cars to reduce pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in the air. The hybrid cars have two engines, one running on gasoline and the other on electricity. The two engines work alternately to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, while the electric batteries are charged from the gasoline engine and when using the brakes. As a result, the car does not need an electric source for charging as it charges itself. The hybrid cars will work in place of the current rented cars that have been rented for four years, as the Department of Mechanical Equipment distributes them to the relevant municipalities and departments during the current month as a first stage after completing the necessary procedure such as examining and ensuring that they comply with the required conditions and technical specifications. In addition, 'woqody' chips are installed to facilitate the process of monitoring and following up on fuel disbursements, as well as registering these cars in the ministry's electronic system, provided that other rented cars are received and distributed successively in accordance with the car supply programme with contracted companies.
Director of the Mechanical Equipment Sherida Sultan Al Rumaihi confirmed that the Department of Mechanical Equipment has started implementing the first phase of introducing new hybrid cars into service in the ministry for the first time, which is characterised by reducing dependence on traditional fuels, reducing carbon dioxide emissions, explaining that the objective of the modernisation is to improve the quality of the ministry's services. Taking into account the best standards and technical specifications for the cars and mechanisms used, these cars reduce 30% of fuel expenses, and work to reduce gas emissions in the atmosphere, which ensures the reduction of environmental pollution. According to Al Rumaihi, 1,226 new environmentally friendly cars will be added within the year with various types in accordance with the requirements of the ministry. The first batch has already been received, which is 129 buses to transport the ministry's employees and workers, including 57 buses from Karwa company operating with the Euro 5 engines, which is distinguished by its use of sulfate-free fuel that reduces carbon emissions harmful to the environment. Moreover, the Department of Mechanical Equipment is working to distribute these cars to the relevant municipalities and departments in January 2022 as a first stage after completing the procedures for registering them in the ministry's electronic system and installing the 'woqody' chips on them. This step comes within the framework of the Department of Mechanical Equipment's plan to develop and modernise the fleet of the Ministry of Municipality by providing the municipalities and concerned departments with the latest cars, improving the services provided, raising the quality of work in the ministry, and providing environmentally friendly cars that contribute to reducing pollution. 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
Saudi Arabia Bu Samra Umm Bab Al Sheehaniya Aqua Park
Al Majd Orbital Road
Mesaieed Interchange
Al Sailiya Interchange
EXIT 24
EXIT 17
INDUSTRIAL AREA
Camp
and
NEW INDUSTRIAL AREA Mubaireek
Stre
et 3
3
2 Industrial Health Centre
WOQOD LPG Plant
Perimeter Wall
Stre
et 5
QBIC
Street J
Industry Street
Styro
Street 1
Al Hodaifi Cables
Amiantit Qatar Pepsi Co
Street 2
Street 6
CMC
Street 4
Dallah
Al Manjara Joinery
Elite Paper Recycling
Street 5
Al Muftah Carpentry
Street 5
Future Pipe Ind
Street S
Energy Street
Itag Int’l
Street 7
Street 8
Street 9
Street 10
Dept of Industrial Estates
Street 3
Medical Commission Unit
Street 41 Growtech
QNPP Street M Street 1
Al Majd Orbital Road
Perimeter Wall
G Ring Road
Gul Com
VW Audi Q-Auto
Al Andalus Wood Factory
Street W
G Ring R
Mesaieed Hamad Port Al Wakra Al Wukair
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LOGISTICS VILLAGE QATAR
Mosque
Mowasalat HQ
Water Tower
Car Service Centre
Petrol Station
New Interchange
Qatar Airways
Bank
oad
Hospital Primary Health Centre Non-Stop Super Highway
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Doha Muaither Al Waab
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
BMW
Street 2
Street 5 ABDULGHANI
Street 6 Street 8
MITSUBISHI MG
Street 10
St r eet Car Mar ket
DOMASCO
AUTO
Labour Dept Office
CAT
Street 15
Al Wakalat St
Street 23
Al Karaiat St
Al Attiyah Souq
TEYSEER
t
Al Manaier St
Street 18
• Industrial Services Centre • Finger Printing For Companies • Traffic Investigation Division
tree
Street 16
Al Binaa St
NATIONAL
QNAV PORSCHE
UCA ALMANA
Street 23
mS
Hempel
East Street 23 I/C
Street 24
FAHES Vehicle Inspection
PORSCHE
Al Kasarat Street
et 55
Stree
1
t 33
HYUNDAI
Street 27
Um
JAIDAH GROUP
Street 27
KIA
Street 31
Hazm Mebaireek General Hospitals Hamad Industrial Hospital
Street 559
Ras Al Mahref St
Z
Street 15
Stre
Markaz Tableegh
nee
GWC
Ain Khaled Wholesale Market
WOQOD
mA
Gulf Warehousing Company
NISSAN INFINITI
Khaled Bin Ahmed St
l Se
Street 10
MANNAI
East Industrial Street
Al Inshaat St
RENAULT
NBK
Street 4
Al Kasarat St
Colour Correction Al Inshaat St
Al Imran St
West Industrial Street
Camp
National Car Rental
Street 3
Street 33
BARWA COMMERCIAL AVENUE
Industrial Area Road East Street 33 I/C
Street 38
Cricket Stadium
Al Karajat St
Khaled Cement Works
Street 39
Al Wraq Alcat
Street 41
Al Kasarat Street
West Industrial Street
Street 47
DOMASCO
Street 43
Madina
Street 45
Qatar Int’l Safety Centre Street 47 Street 48
Parking
Volvo JMC Trucks
East Industrial Street
Khaled Cement Works
Street 43
Workshops
Grand Mall
Street 41
Gulf Warehousing Company – GWC
Umm Al Seneem I/C Rawdat Al Khail St Mesaimeer
Street 37
Tadmur
BARWA
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
Barwa Al Baraha Truck Parking
rt Rd
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Reach the future first and win.
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