Motoring in Qatar: Spring/Summer 2022

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

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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.

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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.

Dana Public Relations PO Box 3797, Doha, Qatar Tel (+974) 4465 5533, 4465 0083 Fax (+974) 4465 5588 General Information marhaba@qatar.net.qa Retail Sales retailsales@marhaba-qatar.com Follow us

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MARHABA

SPRING/SUMMER 2022

5 METRASH AD M83.indd 1

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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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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

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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

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NEW INDUSTRIAL AREA Mubaireek

Stre

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2 Industrial Health Centre

WOQOD LPG Plant

Perimeter Wall

Stre

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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

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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

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Al Manaier St

Street 18

• Industrial Services Centre • Finger Printing For Companies • Traffic Investigation Division

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Street 16

Al Binaa St

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QNAV PORSCHE

UCA ALMANA

Street 23

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East Street 23 I/C

Street 24

FAHES Vehicle Inspection

PORSCHE

Al Kasarat Street

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HYUNDAI

Street 27

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JAIDAH GROUP

Street 27

KIA

Street 31

Hazm Mebaireek General Hospitals Hamad Industrial Hospital

Street 559

Ras Al Mahref St

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Street 15

Stre

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GWC

Ain Khaled Wholesale Market

WOQOD

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Gulf Warehousing Company

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Khaled Bin Ahmed St

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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

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