To drive in Qatar, you must obtain insurance and a valid Driving License. Car owners are also required to register their vehicles, and renew the registration annually.
Motorists drive on the right side of the road. Traffic lights are common throughout Qatar. Speed limit signs are everywhere and should be followed strictly. The speed limit is generally between 60-100 kilometers per hour on most city roads. The maximum speed on highways is 120 kilometers per hour.
Traffic Violations
The government is committed to reducing traffic violations and road accidents. Radars and cameras can be found on many roads and intersections. Plain-clothed police officers may also observe traffic at roundabouts and on highways. Traffic violations include:
Fines vary in price from QR300-QR6,000. And the value of traffic violations is reduced to 50% if payment is made within 30 days of committing the violation, and after this period, the value of the violation will be paid in full. You can pay the traffic violation now through Metrash2 mobile app or through the website of the Ministry of Interior. In the event of a traffic violation, you will receive SMS via the mobile phone registered with the Ministry of Interior or Metrash2.
Traffic Points
The Driving License runs on a point system. Drivers may accumulate a certain number of points for each infraction. License suspension occurs after a driver reaches 14 points in traffic violations. The suspension period is three months. Repeat offenders risk facing lower point thresholds, longer suspension periods and ultimately, permanent cancellation of their Driving Licenses.
More serious violations may require a trial and could result in imprisonment and deportation in addition to hefty fines.