Driving

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:

• Driving an unregistered vehicle. 
• Driving a vehicle without a valid Driving License.
• Using a mobile phone while driving.
• Driving over the speed limit.
• Not wearing a seatbelt.
• Running a red light.
• Driving on the wrong side of the road.
• Allowing children under 10 years old to occupy the front seat.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Not maintaining a distance of at least 50 meters from emergency vehicles.
• Putting a load on a vehicle without adjusting it for safety.
• Transporting a greater number of people in a vehicle than there are available seat belts.
• Obstructing parking spots reserved for taxis or persons with disabilities.
• Fleeing the scene after an accident.
• Parking illegally.

Fines vary in price from QR300-QR6,000.

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.