The Doha Metro is Qatar's state-of-the-art, rapid transit system, designed to offer fast, efficient, and eco-friendly travel across the city. Launched in 2019, the metro network is a key part of Doha's transportation infrastructure and is expected to play a significant role in easing traffic congestion, especially ahead of major events like the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

 

Key Features of the Doha Metro:

Three Lines:
The metro consists of three main lines — the Red Line, Green Line, and Gold Line — connecting major areas in Doha, including the airport, downtown, business districts, and cultural centers. These lines serve as the backbone of the city's public transportation network.​

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Modern, Efficient Trains:
The trains are fully automated, air-conditioned, and equipped with modern amenities. They run frequently and are designed to provide a smooth, comfortable ride for passengers. There is even a VIP car that passengers can take for an extra fee.

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Stops and Connectivity:
The metro connects important destinations like Hamad International Airport, Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), Katara Cultural Village, The Pearl-Qatar, and various shopping malls, making it a convenient mode of transport for both residents and tourists.

• Accessibility:
  The metro is designed to be highly accessible, with dedicated carriages for women and families, as well as facilities for passengers with disabilities.

• Clean and Sustainable:
  The Doha Metro is an eco-friendly transportation option, reducing the city's carbon footprint and contributing to Qatar’s sustainability goals. The system is also known for its punctuality and cleanliness.

• Fares and Tickets:
  Ticketing is simple, with options including single journey tickets, travel cards, and monthly passes. You can pay using the Ooredoo Wallet or top-up smart cards, making the system quick and easy to use.

 

 

 

Carshare options

Qatar offers several car-sharing and rental options, catering to residents and visitors looking for convenient, short-term transportation solutions. Here are the main car-share options available:

Careem

EKar

Uber

Taxi F

Karwa Ride

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Getting a Drivers License

To obtain a full driving licence, the following documents must be presented at the Madinat Khalifa Traffic Department:

• Original licence from one of the countries listed above

• A letter of no objection/permission from the sponsor, written in Arabic

• A copy of the trade licence of the sponsoring company

• A copy of the sponsor’s ID

• Passport (original and copies)

• Three passport photos

• Qatar ID card​

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The applicant must fill out an application form, which must be typed in Arabic and signed by the sponsor. Translation typing services are available on site for a small fee. The form can be downloaded in advance, but needs to be filled out at the Traffic Department.

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One-week rule

If your current license is from an approved country, you can use it for seven days from your arrival in Qatar. Most Western countries are approved countries but, to find the most updated list, visit the Traffic Department at Madinat Khalifa.

 

Temporary license

If you want to drive in Qatar for up to three months, you should apply for a Temporary License. You will need to bring your original license, your original passport (and copies), and three passport-sized color photos to the Traffic Department at Madinat Khalifa. Temporary Licenses are renewable.

 

International Driving Permit

If you have an International Driving Permit, you can legally drive with it for up to six months after you enter Qatar. This is a convenient option because it allows you to keep driving while you navigate the process of converting your license or getting a Qatari one. Keep in mind, though, that you probably won’t be able to buy a car with only an International Driving Permit; you will likely have to rely on rental cars.

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Exchanging a foreign driver’s license in Qatar

Expats from approved countries can exchange their licenses directly to a Qatari one and this is valid for five years. However, the list of approved countries can change, so be sure to check with the Traffic Department for the updated version. Also, keep in mind that the option to exchange a license is only available to expats with residence permits; so, if your Qatar ID is still being processed, you will need to wait until it is complete. 

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